ProdLib

It has been predicted that by 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population will live in cities. This also creates more demand for urbanization, bringing forth a need for high-rise building. Increasing the height of the building, however, brings challenges to construction. The architect must find a solution suitable for the building in terms of aesthetics and technical performance which is safe and economically viable. 

Urban gardening has become a revolutionary solution for those living in densely populated cities, providing a refreshing contrast to the concrete jungle. The practice of cultivating plants, fruits, herbs, and vegetables in urban areas, such as on apartment balconies or rooftops, has grown in popularity in the past years. As of 2023, approximately 75% of Europe’s population lives in cities or urban areas. This trend has been steadily increasing due to urbanization, driven by factors such as economic opportunities, better infrastructure, and access to services in urban centers. Some countries, particularly in Western and Northern Europe, have even higher urbanization rates, with urban populations exceeding 80-85%. As urbanization surges, urban agriculture is reshaping city landscapes and changing how we think about sustainability, food production, and green spaces. 

In 2024, architectural trends in residential areas are increasingly focused on sustainability, community integration, and enhancing well-being, with balcony facades with glazed balconies playing a pivotal role in these developments. These facades are no longer mere aesthetic additions but are now central to the functional and environmental performance of buildings. We will now delve deeper into these emerging trends, examining how they are shaping the future of residential architecture and influencing the design of modern balcony facades.