How to make a workplace from a small balcony. Office on balconies and loggias

Reading time ≈ 8 minutes

Majority modern apartments complemented by a small balcony. Despite its small size, this room can be used as efficiently as possible, especially if you work at home, spend a lot of time at a computer or documents. office on small balcony everyone can create with their own hands, on the design, the photo "before" and "after" the modernization of which we will dwell in more detail.

Variations of study rooms from a balcony or loggia

The working area, organized on the balcony, can have several types. The room may differ in area, degree of openness and features interior decoration. Therefore, before proceeding with the main work, you should familiarize yourself with the varieties of workrooms. Such premises are classified into the following types:

Another classification of cabinets is the interior equipment. So, the office can be stationary and look like a small office with the necessary items. If you plan to work on the balcony infrequently, you can resort to another option - a mobile office. This view differs from the first one in that after completing the necessary work, you can transform the balcony without much effort by removing some furniture elements. Thus, this part of the apartment can be used for a pleasant pastime or for other purposes.

How to organize your workspace

If you decide to create a work area on the balcony, you should carefully consider how to make this room beautiful, comfortable and cozy at the same time. For example, a lack of light or uncomfortable furniture can lead to the fact that the balcony will end up being used for storing various trash, and not as it was originally intended. Therefore, first of all, you need to take care of overhaul square meters and complete the design work.

Balcony insulation

The balcony should be glazed by default. Otherwise, a living corner will not work out of it. However, in addition to glazing, high-quality finishing with heat-insulating materials will also be required.

The choice of insulation and its thickness directly depend on the climatic features of your region.

Traditional materials for these purposes are polystyrene foam, mineral wool, polystyrene foam. All non-glazed parts of the balcony are subjected to thermal insulation, i.e. walls, floor, ceiling. Additionally, you will need a vapor barrier and a beam for mounting the crate. As the floor finishes, materials are used to your liking.

Balcony insulation basically boils down to the following steps:

• pour concrete screed;
• lay the vapor barrier;
• mount the crate and line the insulation;
• lay plywood;
• mount finishing material.

If a concrete base balcony is in good condition, then there is no need for a screed.

Concrete or brick walls plaster, putty, preparing them for finishing. Depending on the materials used, the preparation process may vary slightly. Lining or plastic panels are used as facing materials. However, other more expensive options, such as clinker tiles, are also quite appropriate. It is not recommended to use wallpaper for the purposes in question due to possible dampness, which will lead to their delamination.

Organization of lighting

If the room is planned for relaxation, then subdued light would be quite appropriate. However, the workroom needs soft and bright lighting. Light sources should be such that workplace well lit, but the light itself did not hurt the eyes. One of the advantages of organizing an office on the balcony is that during the day there is enough natural light penetrating through the windows for good lighting. For evening work you will need.

A light installed from above is good if it is located directly above the workplace, i.e. over the table. If the lamp is installed away from the working area, then you will additionally need desk lamp fixed on a shelf or wall.

The light should not blind the eyes, but at the same time it must illuminate the work area.

Before installing the light source, electrical wiring is required. To do this, drill a hole in the wall through which the wire is laid from the junction box from the room. Considering that the balcony will be completely protected from atmospheric precipitation, the lamps can have the same degree of protection as that of indoor elements - no higher than IP44.

Interior Design

Even if the office is equipped with your own hands on a small balcony, there are many design examples, photos “before” and “after” improvements. Even at the stage of drawing up a design project, you need to understand all issues related to finishing walls, floor, ceiling, choice lighting fixtures and furniture. In most cases, the cabinet is finished in a neutral style, which is close to modern minimalism. But, in order to make a room with some individual features, they often take elements from other directions.

On balconies with good lighting, the Scandinavian style fits perfectly, which is characterized by light, ergonomic and at the same time simple furniture, as well as the minimum number of curtains and walls finished in white or pastel colors. To give the workplace status, they prefer the classics: wooden elements in decoration, leather armchair, furniture made of natural wood. If a work area is being prepared for a schoolchild or student, then a simple desk with enough shelves and drawers for various office supplies, as well as a place for a computer, would be quite appropriate.

An important element in the end is the drapery of the windows. The use of thick curtains or blinds in the summer will create a pleasant partial shade, while transparent curtains will not provide sufficient protection from the sun: working in such conditions will be uncomfortable. It is desirable to finish the floor with materials of dark shades. Under the finish, you can mount a floor heating system or, in extreme cases, put a rug under your feet.

Furnishing an office on a loggia or balcony

The office on the balcony, despite its small size, should be used as efficiently as possible. This indicates the need to buy ergonomic and compact furniture. If finances allow, it is preferable to make furniture to order. This is explained by the fact that the small size of the balcony makes it difficult to select ready-made tables, chairs, etc., which are ideal for your interior.

In order for the balcony space to be used rationally, the furniture must be fitted close to the walls.

To organize a working corner, it is best to use the minimum amount of furniture:

• desk;
• computer desk;
• office chair or traditional chair;
• cabinet;
• shelves.

If the balcony is very small, you can limit yourself small table, a chair and a couple of shelves. In this case, there will definitely be nothing superfluous in the room, thereby creating optimal conditions for work.

Desktop

The table is best placed on the entire width of the working room. It is also possible to install it in a corner, while the window sill can be used as an additional surface. The location of the light source depends on whether you are right-handed or left-handed. In the first case, the light should fall on the left, in the second - on the right. The design of the desk, like the rest of the furniture, is selected to your liking, adhering to general style the main part of the apartment or bringing some zest to your home. As materials from which the table can be made, MDF, chipboard are most often used, less often metal and natural wood.

Armchair

One of the requirements for a chair or armchair is its small size. A large armchair on a small balcony would simply be out of place. Its shape and type depend only on your wishes. It is desirable that this piece of furniture is equipped with a height adjustment mechanism and an anatomical backrest adjustment. As a finish, you can choose leather, eco-leather, mesh or fabric.

Shelves

Items that complement the interior are. They will give not only a certain style to the office, but also make it more comfortable. Shelves should be strong enough to accommodate books and folders with working papers. The material of their manufacture may be the same as that of other furniture, but other variations are quite suitable. It is best to place shelves above the table on the end side of the balcony, which will save space. As for the racks, they can be mounted on opposite side, fixing to bearing wall.

Having considered the stages of upgrading a small balcony into a study with your own hands, a possible design with a “before” and “after” photo, almost everyone can convert this room into a work area. This does not require special knowledge and skills, and the costs will directly depend on your preferences. Thus, a previously unused balcony or loggia can become a pleasant addition to the apartment, where you can realize the most daring ideas.

You do not have a place in the apartment for arranging a working area, and the balcony is used as a pantry? There is nothing easier than creating an office right on your balcony. As a result, you will get a beautiful well-groomed balcony, equipped as a do-it-yourself study.

Surely you are wondering: how to make an office out of a balcony with your own hands? Before answering this question, it is worth thinking about the insulation of the balcony, since you will spend time on it not only in summer, but also in winter, so tightness, competent warming with glazing and heating are paramount tasks. Further, the design of the walls and ceiling, the purchase of furniture for the office, which should be as compact and comfortable as possible.

Having thought through all the steps from construction work to decoration in detail, you will achieve your goals with maximum accuracy. If you don’t know how to equip an office on the balcony, the photos presented at the bottom of the article will help you decide on the choice of design.

In order to create your dream office on the loggia, you first need to make a list of work related to the insulation of the room, heating options, decoration and furnishing. After that, you need to decide on a budget. It will be much more profitable to carry out a complex repair on your own, but if there is a question about installing a warm floor and double-glazed windows, in this case you should seek help from professionals.

If you decide to create a residential area on the loggia, you should take care of proper insulation. After all, the office does not mean seasonal work, when it is warm, but year-round. Accordingly, you should be comfortable regardless of the season. If you plan to insulate the loggia on both sides, contact professionals who will carry out high-quality construction works. If you fail, then it is recommended to approach the internal insulation of the balcony with all responsibility.

Organization of a workplace on the balcony

Insulate walls and ceiling

Since the loggia is small in size, in order to save space, the material for insulation should not be chosen as thick and as dense as possible. Penofol, which has already proved itself well in practice, is perfect for this. It does not emit harmful fumes, has a small thickness and is easy to install. After all the cracks are covered adhesive mixture, you can safely lay penofol on the surface, fixing it with dowels-fungi. The next stage of work is the laying of an insulating layer with a vapor barrier, after which you can start laying electrical wiring.

We warm the floor

Even in a cool room, you can feel cozy if you put your feet on the warm floor. Therefore, floor heating on a loggia is one of the most convenient and best solutions for heating this type of room. There are several options for installing underfloor heating, you choose what will be more convenient for you.

For example, a film infrared heating system. The system is laid on a screed with an insulating layer. infrared heating involves laying on top parquet board or laminate. If you have made your choice on natural stone or tiles, then a reinforcing mesh must be laid on top of the film system, which is then poured cement mortar- screed. After that, you can safely lay the selected material.

If you decide not to resort to floor heating with any systems, you can use the same penofol for insulation. To do this, you must first fix the material on the balcony slab, then fill it with cement mortar 5 cm thick, and carpet can be used for finishing. Such a floor covering will create unique comfort and coziness in the interior of the future office, and will be an excellent solution as a heater.

Mini office on the balcony

Attention! Treat the insulation of the balcony with due attention, check that all work is done with high quality.

We heat the loggia

Since it is unlikely that it will be possible to bring central heating to the loggia (for this it is necessary to obtain permission from the relevant services), experts advise stopping at such a heating option as modern electric heaters. They are equipped with a thermostat that reacts even to a slight change in temperature, so you do not face excessive energy consumption. What's more, they are thoughtfully designed and can easily fit into your work area.

It is also a plus that they do not dry out oxygen. To date, the market offers a lot of options with the possibility of installing floor equipment and even with the option of mounting on the ceiling, which allows you not to clutter up the space.

We select the design for the future office

The main purpose of this stage of work is the selection of material for the design of space. Do not opt ​​for dark color solutions, as they visually reduce the space. Also, don't stop at colorful colors with large patterns. On the one hand, this is fun, on the other hand, it is very annoying and distracting from work.

Designers advise to beat a small room according to the principle of division into zones. For example, this can be done using two options for wall decoration: work zone can be done in beige-brown tones using brick or wood texture, and the seating area can be done in any of the soothing shades.

Wall decor options:

• use as paint acrylic paint(if the walls and ceiling are covered with drywall);
• gluing wallpaper on a previously leveled surface;
• surface decoration with decorative wood panels.

Arrangement of the working area

Since your balcony will later be used as an office, you need to decide where the computer will be placed. Often this involves the installation of a computer desk. For small rooms, a compact design is also suitable, which allows you to place everything you need, since our primary task is not to litter the balcony, but to make it as comfortable, cozy and, one hundred and more importantly, spacious as possible.

Workplace on the balcony - design option

If your loggia is spacious enough, in addition to the working area, you can also add a small library by installing a bookcase near or opposite the workplace. Also on the same balcony you can part of the zone by installing a small soft sofa and a coffee table.

A nice bonus of a spacious loggia is that you can install an executive chair near the computer desk. But if you are limited in space, then the tabletop can be used by competently beating the window sill, or you can attach it to the wall, and use a comfortable chair with a back instead of a chair.

The desktop is better to choose a small and compact size with many drawers and shelves. If you are unable to install a computer desk on the balcony the way you want, you can get by with a tabletop attached to the wall.

Do not forget that the workplace should be not only ergonomic, but also comfortable. Therefore, in no case should you be cramped or uncomfortable. You will quickly get tired of this, and the office, along with work, will no longer be a joy.

Pay close attention to the stage of furniture selection. Not only interior design, but also a comfortable stay at the workplace will depend on what kind of furniture you choose.

Shelving, shelves for books or documents are best placed near the work area. And place them so that you can easily reach them.

An important factor is the lighting of the room. Apart from general lighting rooms - spotlights or chandeliers, it is necessary to install individual lighting above the desktop, for example, a table lamp, so that you and your eyes feel comfortable working in the dark.

Making a recreation area

Agree that installing a small one for relaxing is great, but even better if the footage of your balcony allows it. And even if you are limited in the size of the room, you should not deny yourself this. After all, even by installing a small chair on the balcony, you can relax and relieve stress by listening to birdsong or turning on relaxing music. It will be no less pleasant to sit in an armchair with a magazine or a book and a cup of coffee. In the recreation area, you can place several flower pots or a tree, they also have a positive effect on nervous system, soothe and relax. Caring for flowers, watering them, you are distracted from work for a while.

Seating area on the balcony

Thus, by arranging a loggia for an office on your own, you get a separate workplace created by you and designed based on your taste preferences. In addition, you will free up space in the apartment if before that you occupied the living space with office equipment and other work attributes.

We decorate windows

Given that the windows on the balcony and loggia are large, in the daytime the room is perfectly lit. But if the windows face sunny side, then this can significantly complicate work, for example, at a computer. To avoid this, it is worth installing on windows roller blinds, blinds or roman blinds. Such a solution will allow you not to clutter up the space, and they will cope with their function perfectly.

Manicure room on the balcony

Not only a study with folders, shelving, documents and a computer can be realized on the balcony.

There are many options and solutions on how to design a space for a working area for sewing, a mini-hairdresser, a make-up artist's office, a massage therapist and, of course, a manicure room. The latter is extremely profitable to implement on the balcony, because if the master receives clients at home, the smells from acrylic, gel extensions, varnishes will not spread throughout the apartment.

The manicure room on the loggia, the photo of which is presented in the gallery of our website, involves the installation of a table and two chairs on the sides for the master and the client. You also need to take care of the table lighting.

Decoration of the working area of ​​​​the manicure room on the balcony

If you provide pedicure services, here you should take care of a comfortable chair for the client and no less comfortable for yourself. You can decorate the office with green plants, paintings, install a built-in wardrobe or rack for inventory, music that will relax customers, and decorate windows with curtains.

By creating an office on the balcony, carefully considering the design of the room, based on your own preferences, you will learn a comfortable, full-fledged and cozy office at home, where you will be happy to spend working and free time.

Video "how to equip your office with your own hands"

Mini-office on the balcony Workplace on the balcony - design option Making the working area of ​​the manicure room on the balcony Manicure room on the loggia Workplace - computer desk on the balcony Small work area on the balcony Organization of the workplace on the balcony

If there is not enough time at work to complete things, they are taken home. Data analysis, reconciliation of results or planning is difficult to do in a noisy environment, among vacationing family members, so separate room. With a shortage of living space, arrange an office on the balcony. The idea will surely appeal to freelancers and remote work enthusiasts who spend hours sitting at a computer and papers.

At first glance, the idea of ​​a device on the loggia or balcony of the office seems absurd. Much more often, flower beds are laid out there, pantries are equipped for pickles and jams, or they simply ennoble the room for a rest room. However, after carefully weighing all the advantages, it turns out that a mini-office behind the wall of a living space is an unusual, but successful solution.

From the beautiful classic interior, masterfully created homely atmosphere, you won’t immediately understand that in the photo there is an office on the balcony

Consider the benefits of an extraordinary idea:

• expansion of usable space;
• use of natural light;
• excellent ventilation - fresh air from the street;
• suitable working conditions.

Each item requires further explanation.

There is never too much living space, so a couple of well-maintained meters is a great gift for the family. As a rule, in an apartment, first of all, space is allocated for a bedroom, a nursery, a living room, and there is no space left for an office. The chance to get a balcony for an office is quite large, it is unlikely that any of the family members will resist. Moreover, after that, the additional area will not cease to be a place of rest - just put a comfortable sofa in the corner.

Personal work area - the opportunity to decorate the room in your favorite style

If you arrange panoramic glazing in the office on the balcony, natural light will be maximum. From sunrise until late in the evening, you can not turn on the lamp - there is enough light for working at a computer or paperwork. To make it comfortable to work at night, conduct electricity. A beautiful chandelier, a pair of elegant sconces, a floor lamp that migrated from the bedroom - any lighting fixture will do. However, the best option is a table lamp with the ability to adjust.

Sometimes from excess sunlight have to hide behind thick curtains or blinds

The problem of the old "Khrushchev" and "Stalin" buildings is the ventilation of residential premises. The exits to the ventilation shafts are located only in the kitchen and in the bathroom, and to create an effective supply and exhaust system you need to at least temporarily open the vents or windows. AT small room, where access to double-glazed windows is open, it is much easier to arrange ventilation, the main thing is to avoid drafts.

Before installing double-glazed windows, determine the workplace in advance, consider the location and method of opening the shutters

If the loggia is not combined with an adjoining living space - a living room or a bedroom, then the entrance is necessarily closed by a door. This is a guarantee of good sound insulation and that you will not be disturbed or distracted at the most stressful moment. To isolate yourself from street noise, install double-glazed windows with high noise insulation and take care of wall insulation.

At right approach to the arrangement of the premises, the office on the balcony is no different from the usual

We turn to a small minus, or rather, to a minus, the size of which depends on the degree of neglect additional premises. If you have to improve an unglazed patch that has never seen repairs, then a lot of money will go away. However, if it is already insulated, glazed and partially furnished, it remains to reflect on the design of the office on the balcony.

How to turn an unequipped balcony into an office

Suppose you got the most difficult, expensive option - a room completely unprepared for life, that is, a structure with a concrete floor and a metal fence. We will try to analyze the steps that are necessary to transform non-residential space into a comfortable work area.

Step 1: glazing

If you, opening the balcony door, instantly find yourself on the street, the first mandatory step is glazing. It is also necessary if the only sign of comfort is old wooden frames with cracked glass. Modern double-glazed windows are warm and cozy.

Traditional three-sided installation of double-glazed windows - maximum sunlight

A couple of tips that will help when choosing a glass structure:

• pay attention to the quality of the profile and fittings - often problems arise not because of the glass, but due to the rapid abrasion of the seals or the loosening of the corner nodes;
• single-glazed windows are used only for the improvement of cold rooms, you need two-chamber structures (in the northern regions - three-chamber);
• think about the dimensions of the structure - glazing to the floor is hardly appropriate, it is better to stop at the traditional half-wall version with blind ends;
• consider how the design of the frames will be combined with the decoration of the walls; there are options for color design, lamination, wood and stone styling - but do not overdo it with creativity.

Please note that sashes can be hinged, folding, sliding, as well as with a combined opening method. Choose those that are more convenient to use and plan the installation of movable frames not in front of the workplace, but a little further away.

Two full-time jobs - the opportunity to work in the company

The result of glazing is the creation of a full-fledged living space, separated from the street a reliable wall glass and plastic/aluminium.

Step 2: lighting

Replacement natural light needed in any case - for work at late hours, for evening rest. Therefore, the second thing to take care of is the creation of an electrical network that would fully meet the requirements of the working room. This is, first of all, bright, but soft light, which allows you not to strain your eyesight, does not distract from work.

A lamp with a lampshade is a great solution for an office - a creative workshop

In addition to the choice of lighting fixtures, such as lamps, it is necessary to design a wiring diagram, bring electricity to the balcony, install sockets, and designate the placement of fixtures. Wires are usually pulled from an adjacent room. There are two installation methods - closed (in wall strobes) and conditionally open (under a facing material or box). When choosing the second method, take care of reliable insulation, for example, lay the cable in a protective corrugation.

Lamps and sockets are best placed on a common wall with the room - it's easier to work with wires, you don't need to pull them under the floor or in the ceiling. However, if the workplace is far from this wall, it is better to move the socket to the table - it will be easier to use the equipment, there will be no need to buy extension cords.

Variant of the upper spot lighting device; additional light in the workplace area is provided by a table lamp

Working with electricity requires some knowledge, so if you are not sure about own forces call an electrician. A short circuit caused by incorrect cable laying or inaccurate connection of devices is a risk of fire.

Step 3: warming

So that the idea of ​​​​turning a balcony into an office does not fail, insulate all surfaces - the floor, ceiling, walls. Let's consider one of the ways.

One of the options for finishing the interior space

Working in an office is many hours of hard work, so the temperature of +15ºС, which is typical for glazed loggias and balconies, is not enough. It is necessary to insulate the room so that during the time spent at work, a person never feels the desire to wrap himself in a blanket or put on woolen socks.

Stage of insulation - installation of roll Penofol using wooden slats

Action plan:

1. Thermal insulation of non-glazed parts of external walls. The best option is extruded polystyrene foam, the thickness is chosen, focusing on weather region (on average, from 50 to 80 mm). If it is important to keep usable space, pay attention to Penofol - a thin 5 mm insulation with a metallized layer.
2. Insulation of a common wall with the apartment. Everything is simpler here: the same Penofol is suitable for finishing a relatively “warm” surface, the main difference of which is the minimum thickness without losing the main qualities of the insulation.
3. Floor arrangement. On the prepared base, slabs of expanded polystyrene or basalt wool are laid in the crate.
4. Insulating ceiling finish. In fact, the ceiling on the balcony is also a concrete slab, therefore, the same methods are applied to it as are used for thermal insulation of walls and floors.

When choosing a method of insulation, it is important to follow the technology and use high-quality materials, because after finishing it is difficult to get close to the layers of insulation.

Step 4: heating

To begin decorative trim a balcony for an office is impossible until the heating system is thought out. Like any living space, the office requires regular heating. In summer there is no need for heating, but with the onset of cold weather it becomes important condition use of the residential area.

Convector type electric heater for seasonal use

It would seem that there is nothing simpler: they built up central heating pipes and installed 1-2 radiators. But this simple, inexpensive plan won't work, as taking the batteries out of the apartment is prohibited. Loggias and balconies do not fall under the definition of living space. There are examples when tenants sought permission to install radiators, but the approval process will take a lot of time, effort, and it is possible that money.

Consider heating options that can be legally implemented:

• infrared heater;
• electric convector;
• warm floor.

Devices and systems work when connected to electricity, and for this, permits and approvals from government agencies are not required.

The "warm floor" system is designed for installation in any residential area, the only negative is the high price

If the room is small in size, and the insulation is of high quality, then a conventional electric heater is sometimes enough for full heating. Powerful appliances are efficient, but electricity bills will increase.

Step 5: finishing

This is the most enjoyable - the creative stage in the process of arrangement, as it is the beginning of creating the interior of the office on the balcony. To make the result look stylish and harmonious, you need a project that reflects the main design direction and detailing.

To create a project, use a computer program or simply draw a sketch

The cabinet is work room, so the interior should be more businesslike, practical, not distracting. Accordingly, when choosing a palette, we prefer neutral shades - gray, brown, white. But the choice of materials can be any. Someone likes ecological cladding made of wooden panels, others like smooth painted walls, and others like easy-care plastic.

If catchy accents do not bother you, then use brighter colors when drawing up a project.

What flooring to use? There is also complete freedom of action:

• laminate;
• carpet covering;
• boards;
• linoleum;
• tile.

But keep in mind that carpeting refers to the “warm” type of floor, and tile or linoleum to the “cold” type. If you do not use slippers, it is better to stay warm. Wood will also work, as wood usually "keeps" room temperature.

Office on the balcony with a wooden floor. For comfort, you can lay a rug near the table

The ceiling is often lined with clapboard or plastic panels, but for an insulated loggia it is appropriate tensile structure. When installing any type of ceiling, do not forget to pre-mark the attachment points ceiling lights if they are scheduled.

When landscaping an office on a small balcony, do not forget about the lack of free space - choose only those building and finishing materials that allow you to save useful centimeters.

How to organize a work area on the balcony

First, consider two options for using the new room:

• exclusively as an office;
• as an office and resting place.

If you chose the second option, and your rest is not limited to playing computer "shooters" and "strategies", divide the territory into two parts - a work area and a recreation area. In the first, we install a desk with all the necessary accessories, a computer, an office chair, shelves or a locker; in the second - a sofa, a coffee table, flowers. If desired, even on a 3-meter balcony, you can create two compact but cozy corners.

Light interior in a semi-Scandinavian-semi-rustic style

Consider, What to consider when organizing a workplace:

• Style - business, restrained, minimalist.
• Lighting is well thought out. During the day, protection from bright sun rays, in the evening - artificial lighting, sufficient for work, but not striking in the eyes.
• Free windows. A narrow window sill and double-glazed windows are an area that is better not to clutter up with decor. The only exception is curtains, curtains or blinds. The discreet design of the balcony under the office does not tolerate anything superfluous.
• Furniture sizes. If you are lucky with the balcony area, you can ignore this item, but we recommend that owners of typical urban high-rise buildings choose furniture of reduced sizes, or even better, order a working set according to their size.
• Wheelchair. This traditional office accessory is more than appropriate on the balcony - if necessary, it can be easily moved to the relaxation area.
• Maximum use of walls. Since their area is small (most often these are two end narrow walls), it is important to use shelves, racks, cabinets in full height.

Furniture for an office on a loggia

The office, equipped on the balcony, should be as functional as possible. Therefore, buy compact, ergonomic furniture. If the budget allows, it is better to make to order. Due to the small size balcony room it will be difficult to find ready-made tables and chairs that will fit into the interior. In small spaces, every inch needs to work, so it's best to fit the furniture flush against the wall and railings.

Instead of a massive table - a countertop

For a study on the loggia, a minimum set of furniture is appropriate:

• writing or computer desk;
• a hard chair or chair on wheels;
• racks;
• shelves on the wall;
• nightstand.

To save space, limit yourself to a countertop, a comfortable chair and a couple of shelves. These items will provide good conditions to work without "eating" free space.

Written (computer) table

A writing or computer desk is best placed at the end of the balcony, spreading across its entire width. Sometimes it is set at an angle, using the window sill as an additional surface. The side from which artificial or natural light should fall on the desktop surface depends on which hand the person writes with: right or left.

For left-handers, the light should fall on the right, for right-handers - on the left.

As for the material, it can be anything. Desks are made from:

• Chipboard, fiberboard or MDF are the cheapest materials;
• metal (not always convenient, but looks stylish and original);
• wood (wooden products are of high quality);
• tambourata is a new lightweight material from which original designs are created.

office chair

An office chair installed on a balcony cannot be too large. Give preference to ergonomic, not massive furniture. Large "director's" chairs look spectacular on spacious balconies, on ordinary balconies they just get in the way. Everyone chooses the form, type of construction independently, based on personal preferences.

For an office, an armchair with a soft, semi-soft, hard seat is equally appropriate. In any case, it is equipped with a gas lift - a mechanism that adjusts the height of the seat. It is better to choose a product with an anatomical adjustable back. Suitable for upholstery:

• natural or artificial leather;
• eco-leather;
• grid;
• textile.

Shelves / racks for books

Racks and shelves should complement the interior of the room. This will make the workplace more stylish. The shelves are made strong, rigid, so that you can put books, folders with documents on them. Shelves and racks are best made from the same material from which other furniture on the loggia is made, but variations are possible depending on the design features.

Most often, shelves on a balcony or loggia are made of wood, plastic, metal or glass. It's better to hang them over desk at the ends of the loggia to save space. Shelves can be placed on the opposite side of the computer desk or attached to a load-bearing wall so that they do not interfere with free movement.

Drawers for papers and stationery

Drawers ensure the safety of documents, protecting them from moisture, dust, and other adverse factors. Paper stackers vary in width and height. These designs are of two types: with full or partial extension. Usually they are placed under the desk, but variations are possible: fastening to the wall or installation next to the racks.

Drawers can be made independently, buy finished models or make to order according to individual measurements. Color and design match the style of the interior. To make these designs look appropriate in a study on a loggia or balcony, make them from the same material from which other furniture in the room is made.

Shelves for office equipment

The study on the balcony does not need in large numbers office equipment, but its absence can adversely affect the functionality of the workplace. When working at home, you may need a printer, projector, scanner or any other equipment. Some devices can be put on a computer table, but it is better to build separate shelves for them on brackets.

Shelves for office equipment are best attached to a load-bearing wall. Shelves can be made to order according to the size of the equipment that will be placed on them. You can also make them yourself from chipboard, MDF or wood. There is not enough space on the balcony, so partially unoccupied long shelves are inappropriate here and only interfere.

Furniture for an office on a loggia or balcony should be ergonomic, multifunctional. It is installed so that nothing interferes with free movement, opening windows and balcony doors. As a standard, the cabinet is made in the same style, where each item (shelving, armchair, decorative elements, etc.) harmoniously complements the interior.

Examples of successful cabinet design on the balcony

Perhaps some photos will help give birth to new ideas for improving the style of not quite ordinary, but comfortable place for work.

Video: cabinet decoration and design

Video sequence design ideas:

Tips for warming and finishing:

Option classic interior from professionals:

As you have already seen, the creation of an office on the balcony - real idea. If the prospect of another useful room makes you want to create and fantasize, this project is for you!

In the balcony space, you can place a computer desk, organize a full-fledged office or workshop. Thus, it will be possible to use usable area apartments to the maximum, as well as retire in the process of work.

How to create an office?

• First you need to install reliable double-glazed windows. Glazing will protect the room from temperature changes, the influence of precipitation, dust and dirt from the street.
• Insulate the walls, floor and ceiling surface. Mineral wool or foam boards are suitable as heat insulators;
• All gaps must be filled with sealant or mounting foam;
• It is desirable to provide additional sources of heat, for example, a floor heating system. The presence of this device will allow you to maintain a comfortable temperature in any season;
• The main heating of the room is best done with an electric heater.

Workplace for a business man with a computer and a comfortable chair.

Mini-office in the loggia space with a computer for work.

Features of lighting in the office

It is necessary to properly organize the system of proper lighting. During the day, it is better to regulate natural light with the help of blinds; at night, use artificial light sources on the balcony.

Choose a small lamp with adjustable wattage. It is desirable that the direction can be corrected. The size of the device should be commensurate with the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

A selection of examples in the photo

Work area with printer and computer. Spacious shelves for storing various items.

An example of organizing an office on a balcony.

Palette of light shades in interior decoration. The cabinet is equipped with a computer and a subwoofer.

Natural texture in the interior of the office.

Neoclassical style in the home office.

Working area on small area. Finishing the walls of the loggia - light-colored PVC panels.

Designer's corner in the balcony room.

A place to work behind a sewing machine.

Textile workshop with many storage options for sewing supplies.

Workshop with air conditioning.

Home owner's office.

Carpentry workshop for men.

Artist's room.

Make-up artist's office on the balcony.

Loggia equipped as a beauty salon.

. September 14, 2016
Specialization: master in construction drywall constructions, finishing works and laying of floor coverings. Installation of door and window blocks, facade finishing, installation of electrics, plumbing and heating - I can give detailed advice on all types of work.

AT modern conditions more and more people are working remotely, but those who travel to the office every day have the opportunity to work from home from time to time. Allocate for such purposes separate room not everyone can, but equipping an office on a balcony or loggia is much easier. Yes, you will have to spend time and money, but you will have another full-fledged room instead of a place to store trash and seasonal items, you see, this is a very big plus.

Pros and cons of this solution

If you are still thinking about whether to remodel your balcony, then this small section will help you familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of such cabinets and make an informed decision.

Let's start with the advantages:

Additional usable space	I mentioned this aspect above, you will have a few more square meters of living space that can be used not only for work, but also for recreation. Just put an armchair or a small sofa - and you will have a seating area in your office where you can relax with an interesting book or a cup of coffee
good ventilation	Receiving is important for high productivity fresh air into the room, and there are no problems with airing on the balcony, you just need to reach out and open the window. Naturally, when installing windows, you need to provide opening sashes in the places you need so that you are minimally distracted during work.
Good natural light	It is impossible to provide ideal working conditions without quality lighting. There are no problems with this on the balcony, moreover, if the room is located on the east or south side, then curtains or blinds should be provided to limit the flow of light in sunny weather. Organizing competent artificial lighting is also not difficult, because the area is small, and you need to allocate one or two places in the room.
Good working conditions	The balcony is most often located at a distance from the kitchen, corridor and other noisy rooms, this is very important for those who need silence to work. Here you can implement two options: either make the loggia combined with the room, if the noise does not bother you, or put a good balcony block, then you will get a space that is maximally protected from outside noise

As for the shortcomings, in my opinion, there are only two of them:

1. If your balcony was in a state of disrepair, then you will have to spend a lot of effort and money in order to make a full-fledged office out of it. For some, such costs seem too high, but if you are nevertheless fired up with such an idea, then you can do the work gradually, then you will not have to immediately invest a lot of money, and in the end you will still receive from Personal Area;
2. Sometimes the balcony area is not enough to equip the workplace. Personally, it seems to me that if you think through everything and use the space wisely, then you can fit everything you need.

The process of converting a balcony into an office

As you guessed from the name, the whole work consists of six stages, each of which is mandatory for implementation if you want a great end result. I will consider the process from scratch, that is, the most difficult option when you have outdoor balcony or a loggia without any glazing and insulation.

You need to familiarize yourself with all the information below and simply skip the work that you may already have done.

Stage 1 - glazing

If you have ordinary wooden frames, then it is better to replace them as well. Installation work is complex and responsible, so I strongly recommend that you entrust it to professionals, but you need to choose the best option.

When choosing, you should be guided by several recommendations:

• It is necessary to purchase windows with good thermal insulation performance, for middle lane plastic structures with double-glazed windows are well suited. Single windows used on cold balconies will not work for you;

• Modern manufacturers offer options for different colors, if desired, frames can be laminated to look like wood to make them more attractive. appearance. Here you need to be guided only by your preferences, think about what you like the most, because you will have to spend a lot of time in this room;
• The size of the structures can also be different, some prefer to install floor-to-ceiling options, and some, on the contrary, close some of the openings with deaf elements. It is necessary to take into account all the features of your balcony and, based on this, select the optimal solution.

When ordering windows, pay the most attention to the manufacturer of the profile and the quality of the fittings, it is better to use products from Western brands, they are reliable and time-tested.

Stage 2 - wiring

Cabinet - a room in which various office equipment can be installed, quality is also needed. Therefore, it is necessary to solve the issue of power supply in advance, here it is necessary to take into account several important nuances:

• It is best to bring the wiring out of the adjacent room to hide the cable, you can put it in a strobe, or you can close it finishing material. It all depends on how you will make the finish, in the first case you will need a puncher with a special peak, and in the second you need to use a corrugated sleeve into which the wire is placed and which is laid behind the exterior finish or in the insulation layer;

• It is necessary to think over the location of switches, lighting elements and sockets in advance in order to make high-quality wiring. It is better to make an extra outlet that will not be used later than tripping over an extension cord or laying a wire over a trim;

If you will be using an electric underfloor heating system, then do not forget to bring the power wire to it as well.

• In order not to confuse anything and not cause problems for those who do not understand electrics, I advise you to invite specialists to connect the wiring and plan it. This will eventually come out cheaper than reworking the entire system or eliminating the consequences of a short circuit.

Stage 3 - warming

Unfortunately, standard designs most often do not provide proper thermal insulation of balconies, so you will have to carry out insulation work yourself. The process is described in detail by me in one of the articles, so here I will only touch on its main stages:

• Exterior walls are best insulated with 5 cm thick extruded polystyrene foam.. This is a very reliable material with high thermal insulation performance, which is easy to use and allows you to achieve excellent result. To ensure the highest reliability, all cracks and joints must be filled with mounting foam, the excess of which is subsequently simply cut off;

• On top of Penoplex, I advise you to attach Penofol - a new generation heat insulator with a reflective layer. It has a small thickness (only 5 mm) and has high performance. And the presence of a reflective layer allows you to save heat much more efficiently, so your balcony will become even warmer and more comfortable;
• Walls that do not go outside, but are adjacent to a neighboring loggia or house, can be insulated with a layer of Penofol, this is quite enough. Fastening is done using wooden slats, I advise you to additionally close the joints with metallized tape to ensure maximum reliability;

• As for the floor on the balcony, it can be insulated different materials, again I have covered some options in other reviews. You can use polystyrene foam, polystyrene foam, mineral wool, or you can lay a dry Knauf screed. The latter option is especially good if you need to raise the floor level by 10-15 cm and at the same time insulate it;

• It is easiest to glue polystyrene or extruded plates on the ceiling. As an adhesive, you can use a special composition, or you can use the usual mounting foam. For additional reliability, special dowels for thermal insulation are used, which have a pressure washer.

Stage 4 - heating

Even the highest quality insulation will not help to completely protect yourself from the winter cold, and if you do the work yourself, you should also take care of heating the space, there may be several solutions, you need to choose the best one:

• If you want to install a conventional heating radiator, then you will first have to coordinate this action with the supervisory authorities. Specialists must carry out appropriate calculations, and if the design heating system allows you to remove the radiator, then you will be given permission, you will also have to redo the project, and only after that you can start work. If everything works out, then you will have stationary heating at minimal cost;

• You can use an electric underfloor heating, this option is good because it does not need to be coordinated anywhere, and it is easy to implement. To work, you will need to purchase several ready-made modules that are spread over the surface and connected as the instructions prescribe. But this option is more expensive due to the high cost of electricity, to minimize costs, it is necessary to install thermostats so that they turn off the system when the required temperature is reached;

• You can install an electric radiator on the loggia, which can be turned on as needed or equipped with a thermostat to maintain desired temperature. This solution is even easier, because you just need to attach or even put the structure in the right place and plug it into a power outlet. The main disadvantage is the same as in the paragraph above - the considerable cost of electricity;

• The modern solution is to use infrared heaters, they are mounted on the ceiling and differ in that they do not heat the air, but all the surfaces to which they are directed. Such designs consume little energy, but perfectly heat small spaces, so they are the best suited for balconies and loggias. They are easy to install, which is also important.

Stage 5 - finishing work

Sitting in shabby walls the best solution, so you need to spend at least redecorating. If all the above points are fulfilled, then we will have a well-insulated and heated space, therefore, any finishing materials can be used.

I will talk about those options that, in my opinion, are the easiest to implement:

• Before you make an office out of a balcony, you should consider its color scheme. The main requirement is that the environment should be such that it is comfortable for you to work in it. That is why with color design you need to decide in advance so that it doesn’t turn out that you are annoyed by bright or, conversely, too dark walls;
• For the floor, it is best to use a laminate, it can be laid even by those who have never done such work. An additional advantage is the fact that there are great amount textures and colors, so you can choose the best solution for any environment. The price per square meter can be from 300 rubles and more, it is better not to use the cheapest options, choose products at least in the middle price segment;

• As for the walls, then you are free to choose what you like. You can use decorative plasters, you can use MDF panels or even, it also looks great. A very cozy working atmosphere can be created with the help of cork, but in general the choice is yours - the main thing is that the atmosphere is conducive to work;

• For the ceiling, the most optimal, in my opinion, option is a tension structure. Firstly, it does not cost that much, secondly, it will be delivered to you in just a couple of hours, and thirdly, dust and dirt are almost not generated during operation, and your finish will not suffer. Big choice colors allows you to decorate the balcony as you need, and the elasticity of the material will prevent damage to it during temperature changes or structural movements.

Stage 6 - organizing the workspace

If all the above actions are suitable for any balconies, regardless of what you want to make of them, then in order to turn the room into an office, you need to properly furnish it and consider the location of all elements.

That's what we're going to talk about in this section:

• First of all, you need to think over the design of the office on the balcony, for this you need to decide which elements must be present and what kind of furniture you will need. You don't need to be a designer to deal with this task, the Internet is full of photos, and you can find the perfect idea for yourself or collect the most interesting solutions and create your own unique interior;

• Then you need to draw a sketch of the future office, you don’t need perfect lines and maximum accuracy. The main thing is to measure your space and calculate how much space you can allocate for this or that object. So you can clearly imagine the end result and understand what you need to purchase in order to make your personal account on the loggia;
• It is worth considering what elements of furniture will be needed to organize the work. Someone needs a lot of drawers for storing papers, a printer and fax are also required, and someone can work on a simple desk with a laptop. Do not try to fill the space with furniture, you need to use only what you need, it will be much more reasonable, and it will cost less;

If you want to use the balcony not only as an office, but also for other purposes, then you can make the countertop folding. When you need, you can lay it out, and the rest of the time it will not take up space.

• As for places to store papers, it can be like drawers in the table and shelves on the walls. Choose what you like, but remember that shelves are cheaper and much easier to put up than putting together a table with drawers. The size of the shelves depends on what will be stored on them, so think in advance about what you will fold and how much it will weigh;

• Lighting is another important aspect, it is better if you have both general system, and a separate lamp that will shine on the workplace. The most convenient are adjustable options or small structures located directly above the desktop. This is much more efficient and allows you to achieve the best effect;

• It is very important to provide protection from sunlight, if it shines into the eyes, then this is unlikely to contribute to the work. The easiest way is to use blinds, but if you do not like this option, then you can choose Roman blinds or another similar option, the main thing is to provide good protection from sunlight;

• You also need to purchase a comfortable chair, it should fit the height of the table, not clutter up the entire space. If you have a working area on two or even three sides, then it is most convenient to use rotating options.

In principle, there is nothing complicated in the design, the main thing is that all the elements are combined with each other and provide convenient work. It is better to order furniture according to individual sizes so that it fits perfectly into the space, try to choose not massive, but light structures, in a small room they will look much better. Use decorative elements to make the space cozy.

Conclusion

Office on the balcony great idea for an apartment, you get a quiet place to work and your family won't have to tiptoe around to distract you. The main thing is to carry out all the work described above in order to get a full-fledged room with good insulation and heating.

The video in this article will help you understand the individual nuances even better, and if you still have questions, you can write them in the comments below.

September 14, 2016

If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, ask the author something - add a comment or say thanks!