Glass and aluminium balconies with a ‘Wow factor’ are enabling residents and diners to make the most of scenic views on the island of Jersey.

Effi Wolff of Balcony Systems Ltd showcases some examples installed by St Helier-based Pallot Windows, their distributor in the Channel Island of Jersey.

From beachside apartments to a fast food restaurant, Jersey has enthusiastically embraced the arrival of a low-maintenance glass balcony system that offers safety and security, while keeping clear views to the outside.

Elegance, simplicity and affordability

According to Tom Matthews, Managing Director of Pallot Windows, one of the isrand’s oldest window companies, the elegance and simplicity of the competitively-priced Balcony System serves their niche market perfectly.

“It’s a fantastic product, particularly for the many properties here that overlook the sea,” says Tom. “Jersey has some wealthier residents who are selective in what they spend on their homes and lifestyles, preferring products that are a bit different and bespoke. The Balcony system scores highly for its aesthetics and affordability, with the great advantage of keeping the views. Its corrosion-resistance makes it ideal for our coastal climate, and of course, there’s no need for painting.”

Luxury balconies

A shortage of homes is keeping Jersey’s builders busy, with some 400 new apartments a year being built – many on reclaimed or previously-developed land – to meet demand. Changes in the hotel industry mean a number of hotels are being converted into luxury apartments, many with large balconies with glass balustrades.

For example, the former Seacrest Hotel site at St Brelade has been transformed into eight apartments with glass balconies measuring up to 20 metres by 10 metres. As well as retaining spectacular sea views, the clear glass panels also offer protection from sea breezes.

Similarly, shelter was a key factor in another project at a pizza restaurant overlooking St Brelade’s Bay. By using taller panels to create a seven-foot high glass ‘division’ screen, diners and smokers can enjoy the ocean vista from behind a clear ‘windbreak’.

Practical product opens up creative design

As inherently strong materials, glass and aluminium open up exciting creative design possibilities for straight and curved glass balconies, with minimal need for vertical or corner posts.

“The Balcony system allows for greater distancing between the vertical uprights than other systems,” explains Tom. “So for an eight-metre wide balcony, only three posts would be needed – compared to six or more posts with other systems – enabling the beauty of the glass to shine through.”

Handrails are available in a choice of finishes to suit property styles and colour schemes; powder-coated white or anodized silver, bronze or ‘Royal Chrome’, which replicates the look of stainless steel, but without the discolouration problems.

Tom concludes: “Balcony is a very responsive and reactive company with an original, yet practical product that really appeals to the Jersey market. The company’s commitment to excellent customer service enables us to offer the same to our discerning customers.”