The problem of the old, obsolete housing stock in our country is still relevant. Khrushchev’s make up about 10% of Russia's housing. Very small kitchens, hallways, bathrooms and balconies remain a reality for many families.
Features of balconies in a small apartment
The main characteristics include:
- Compact dimensions, narrow shape. During decoration and installation of furniture, minimalism should be used, otherwise the design of the balcony in Khrushchev will be overloaded and uncomfortable.
- Low bearing capacity. This factor must be considered when choosing finishing materials - their weight should be minimal. The use of ceramic tiles, facing stone, parquet should be excluded or strengthen the design.
There are three parameters for the length of the balcony in Khrushchev:
Width is from 70 to 90 cm.
Where to begin?
The reconstruction of the balcony should not begin with repair work, but with an examination of the balcony slab. It is necessary to find out in what condition it is and how long it will last - it is dangerous to load the old balcony. If it turns out that the plate is not strong enough, this can become a serious problem: in the best case, it will be possible to strengthen, and in the worst, replacement will be required. It is expensive, and it takes a lot of time.
Glazing
This work is best entrusted to professionals. Today, glazing is used in two types:
- cold, in which an aluminum profile is used;
- warm - for it, frames made of PVC, natural wood or an aluminum profile with a thermal insert made of polyurethane are used.
The second option allows you to operate the space throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.
Glazing is also subdivided according to the design basis:
- solid (panoramic);
- classic (the lower part of the parapet remains closed).
Some companies today offer glazing with the removal of frames beyond the perimeter of the balcony slab. In this case, the area of the balcony will not decrease even after warming. If you do not like plastic balcony windows - order wooden frames. They are great for decorating a country-style balcony.
Warming
On three sides around the perimeter and above (ceiling), the balcony will be insulated with sandwich panels. The installers perform this work when glazing. Material for insulation is negotiated before signing the contract. It has special requirements:
- moisture resistance;
- ease of maintenance during operation;
- service life not less than 30 years;
- environmental friendliness;
- acceptable price.
One of the most popular options for interior cladding is wood paneling. If you want to create a modern balcony design in Khrushchev, you can use:
- Drywall sheets. After mounting, the surface is pasted with wallpaper, covered with decorative plaster or artificial stone (depending on the chosen style).
- PVC panels. This material is today presented in a large assortment.
- Bung. Pretty expensive stuff. It is an antibacterial coating that does not cause allergies.
- Lining from plastic.
- Siding.
Insulation and flooring
To insulate the floor, you can use the time-tested method. Spread penofol on the balcony stove. This is a budget material having a foil coating on one side only. Penofol is laid out precisely with the foil up. The material is laid end-to-end, and the seams are treated with aluminum tape. A frame of timber is installed on top. In its cells lay foam foam of the desired thickness.
The following floor coverings are suitable for finishing a balcony in Khrushchev: carpeting, linoleum, laminate. When using ceramic tiles, it may be necessary to strengthen the balcony slab.
Ceiling
To design the ceiling on the balcony, you should choose the lightest material. The stretch ceiling is perfect. Such coverage will be a spectacular completion of the repair and will not require large financial costs. If you plan to install a ceiling light on the balcony, wiring must be done before installing the tensile structure.
To extend the life of this coating, choose a material that can withstand freezing temperatures. Such a ceiling can be installed even with cold glazing.
Style selection
Many homeowners are mistaken, who believe that the choice of a stylistic direction is important only for residential premises. When decorating a balcony in Khrushchev, it is also important to determine what style you will design it in.
- Classic. This is a universal solution that is suitable for any interior. A clear and understandable design, a light ceiling and walls, a laminate as a floor covering, flowers, curtains, a compact chandelier on the ceiling - such a traditional solution has always been relevant.
- French style. This direction involves a more original design of the balcony in Khrushchev. The design uses light colors. To decorate the walls, decorative plaster is suitable, and for the floor - natural wood.
- Provence. This style is suitable for lovers of greenery - live or dried. Flower arrangements can decorate the windowsill, stand in floor vases and hanging flower pots, on a small table. By the way, this style is suitable for the design of a narrow balcony in Khrushchev (less than 90 cm wide).
- English style. Suitable for lovers of strict design. It uses Victorian-style furniture and decor. It can be a table and a couple of chairs with bent legs, an elegant, but not elaborate chandelier, wall lamps or sconces.
- Chalet. A great solution for everyone who appreciates all that is natural and natural. To create a balcony design in Khrushchev in this style, you must use natural wood. Give preference to wooden frames coated with varnish. Plastic balcony windows in this case will be inappropriate. The internal brick walls can be left in their original form or covered with light tones. Natural wood is welcome on the floor.
- Country. Such a rustic style interior is characterized by cute, homely decor items: flowers in pots, wallpaper with floral ornaments and wooden flooring. To make the interior cozy, use interesting design ideas for window decoration - curtains on the balcony should be made of light natural fabrics with ruffles and frills. Complete them with braid, lace, which is fully consistent with this style.
Khrushchev's balcony design ideas
So, your very modest in size balcony is glazed and insulated. He turned into a small loggia. It's time to design the balcony. Of course, there is not enough space in Khrushchev, and this part of the apartment is no exception - it is necessary to rationally use every centimeter, but the new look of the room is already pleasing.
Do not forget about design techniques for visual expansion of space. Use light colors in the decoration, enliven the design with bright color accents. Don't like the view from the window too much? For window decoration today, designers can offer many ideas. Curtains on the balcony can be long to the floor or short, rolled, made of various materials. The choice depends on the chosen style and purpose of the room.
How can I use the resulting space: greenhouse
The choice of a balcony design in Khrushchev after such a large-scale reconstruction is limited only by your imagination. Many lovers of indoor plants dream of a greenhouse, even a very small one. Well, this is your chance to turn a renovated balcony into a wonderful mini-garden.
When glazing, arrange with the installation company to install a wide window sill and ask for mortgages in the deaf side plastic panels of the timber. In this case, you can hang pots on the side walls and install shelves for containers with plants and various cute trinkets.
Rest zone
When making a recreation area, the main problem will be the size of the furniture. For the balcony in Khrushchev, you should choose light and small products .. You can order the necessary items or make them yourself, if such an experience exists. It is not difficult to make a comfortable small ottoman for relaxation. Lay two sheets of plywood on the posts of the timber. The height is calculated so that from the end fit two drawers for storing things. Put the mattress and pillows on the plywood - and the sofa is ready!
Instead of an ottoman, you can make a small bench with a folding seat. You will receive a box for storing all kinds of little things.
Mini-cabinet
Even on such a small balcony you can place a comfortable workplace. No one here will interfere with working in beautiful natural light. Well, if you plan to work in the evenings, you need to install a lamp on the wall above the table. On the balcony, according to reviews, you can work calmly and productively.
Place for needlework
Many housewives dream at least for a while to hide from household chores and do their favorite hobby. The renovated and equipped balcony is ideal for needlework. Hinged shelves and shelving can easily cope with the placement and storage of necessary tools, sewing accessories, materials. The lack of natural light in the evenings will help to cope with original decorative lamps.
Game Zone
Even the smallest balcony can be turned into a wonderful play area for kids, but provided that it is insulated and all safety measures are thought out. There should not be sharp corners and objects that are dangerous for young children. Toys are placed on a small rack with lockable doors at the bottom. White color should be diluted with bright, rich accents, curtains with funny children's drawings.