Made By Monkeys

As an engineer by day, and a local councillor on the Planning Committee in the evenings, I've seen lots of these on refurbs and new buildings.

I think they're sometimes referred to as a "Juliet balcony" and are (I've always assumed) designed by architects to satisfy the aspirations of developers and flat-buyers who aspire to that royal/Hollywood wave-to-the-crowds experience, but are building where a proper projecting balcony wouldn't be allowed for planning, structural or cost reasons. Given that the door (not window) is there, and opens, the need for the railings should be obvious...

Are these not fire escapes? Is the rule for new windows that a certain number of windows on each floor open to a suitable degree (i.e. a full 90 degrees open) to allow emergency access (or escape). The idea being that the fire brigade can put a ladder against these to help someone out. Why use a full door AND railing I don't know, and I'm sure as John points out, fashion has a lot to do with it.

Thanks John, interesting. It's kind of a poor-man's "Juliet", though. And, of course, the door must always open inwards or there'll be no show (!)

"The idea being that the fire brigade can put a ladder against these to help someone out." That would be very practical, James. Never thought of that. I can't help thinking, though, that fire regulations must allow full exit by other means anyway.

I've seen these type of features on many different buildings - not just modern ones. I've always regarded them as floor-length windows, giving you extra light and window space, but not requiring the extra structural requirements that a true balcony requires.

It could be a door for large furniture/pianos, etc which could be lifted in by crane if stair well is small and it could be a window for the rest of the time.

Also handy if the hot water tank needs to be replaced.

When is a door not a door?

When it's a French window.