Questioning the use of the balcony in apartments during the COVID-19 pandemic process

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess using of balconies in apartment buildings. In the research, by questioning the use of balconies as to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) process and before, the place and importance of the balcony in the apartment house were questioned.Design/methodology/approachBalcony performance dimensions and components, which were revealed based on the studies conducted, were analyzed with questions directed to the individuals living in the apartment (one person every flat). In the research in which behavioral and functional performance is questioned through users, the survey method was used and the data were analyzed in the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) program. Apart from the performance dimensions, data on the characteristics of the balconies were also obtained from the answers of the users.FindingsThe use of balconies has increased during the pandemic process and has become more important in apartments. The size of the balcony is related to the size of the house. The functional performance of the balcony is linked to the size of the balcony, behavioral and environmental values. The balcony should be large enough to accommodate equipment for daily activities, the proximity to the surrounding buildings, view, noise affect the performance of the balcony.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to the questionnaire applied to apartment users in Konya (Turkey) city center. Male and female users participated in the study, and the use of the balcony was questioned.Practical implicationsApartment design includes results that contribute to architects regarding the location and use of the balcony. It also includes the results that can be evaluated by local governments in terms of binding rules on balconies in zoning regulations.Social implicationsThe balcony is one of the rooms of the house, which is mainly designed in connection with the kitchen and living room / living room and shared by the household. The balcony is used as a socializing place for the common actions of the house users. This space that opens to the outside is valuable in terms of providing communication with people outside.Originality/valueThe fact that no study has been conducted to question the use of the balcony over the user makes this study valuable. In addition, questioning the use of the balcony during the pandemic process is important in terms of revealing the importance of the need for open space in an apartment. The results will contribute to architects and local administrations in terms of binding rules in design regarding the location of the balcony in the house.