Comparing Apartment Balcony Design Options in Toronto for Useability, Healthy Lighting and Daylight Availability

The design of apartment balconies impacts the energy use, quality of life, and health and well-being of residents. This simulation-based study analyzed and compared open air and glass-enclosed inset balconies for two typical unit sizes in multi-unit residential buildings (MURB) in Toronto, Canada. The case study evaluated balcony options based on impact on unit lighting, and tested various balcony sizes that would enable different uses. The simulation results were compared with lighting criteria for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Standard and the circadian lighting credit for the WELL Building Standard. Findings include recommendations for design options that enable balcony uses as dining and living spaces, and relating to the impacts of balcony designs on building performance. Daylight and healthy lighting were evaluated both for the unit, and on the balcony as its own usable space. Future work should compare simulation findings to occupant satisfaction in field studies.