If you’re going round in circles trying to figure out the difference between a French balcony and a Juliet balcony, then we’ve got a simple answer for you – in most cases, there is no difference!
Often, the two terms are used interchangeably to refer to the same architectural feature. So, a Juliet balcony is a French balcony and vice versa.
Is a Juliet balcony the same as a French balcony?
There’s little (to no) difference between a French balcony and a Juliet balcony.
So, yes – usually when people talk about a Juliet balcony or a French balcony, they are referring to the same thing.
Typically, Juliet balcony and French balcony are terms that refer to a decorative, safety barrier that sits outside of a full-length window or door on the upper floor of a building.
This type of balcony is usually defined by the fact that it doesn’t have a platform you can step out onto.
Sometimes, a French balcony has a tiny platform, more of a ledge, that is still not big enough to walk out onto.
Why are there two terms to describe the same architectural feature?
Unsurprisingly, the term French balcony comes from France, where it is more common to find full-height French doors on the upper floor.
These doors open inwards and typically have a wrought iron railing outside of them for safety.
This style of decorative metal railing is therefore often associated with classic French architecture.
The term Juliet balcony recognises the timeless, romantic appeal of this style of balcony.
It’s inspired, of course, by the famous scene in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, where Juliet appears at the balcony of her bedroom window and calls down to Romeo below.
The term was therefore coined as more of a literary reference than an architectural one.
What is this type of balcony typically called in the UK?
It’s more common to hear balconies without platforms referred to as Juliet balconies in the UK.
Here, Juliet balconies are available in a wide range of different styles and materials, including decorative steel Juliet balconies and modern glass Juliet balconies.
Can you stand on a Juliet balcony?
Usually, no; the defining feature of a Juliet balcony is that it doesn’t have a platform, and as a result you cannot stand on it.
However, if you would like a balcony with a platform, you can add one to any of the steel balconies in our range or to the Mirage glass balcony – ideal for potted plants or a herb garden.
Alternatively, ask us to design and build one customised to your personal requirements.
Why choose C&R Direct to supply your Juliet balcony?
At C&R Direct, we’ve been designing and fabricating Juliet balconies from our family-run workshop in Rochdale since 1989!
All our balconies are:
- Made using high-quality, long-lasting materials
- Fully compliant with UK building regulations
- Covered by a 10-year no-rust guarantee
- Made-to-measure
Need help choosing the right Juliet balcony for your home?
Call us on 0161 241 9872 or email sales@crdirect.co.uk, and our team will be happy