The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has unveiled Guide to Design Guidelines for Balcony Enclosures which aims to ensure their appearance aligns with the overall aesthetic and harmonizes with surrounding buildings, thereby achieving the aesthetic integration of cities.
8 Requirements for Balcony Enclosures
The Ministry announced eight basic requirements for balcony coverings with the aim of improving the urban landscape and enhancing the aesthetic value of buildings. The Ministry emphasized that these requirements aim to achieve architectural harmony that reflects the visual identity of the buildings and meets approved engineering standards.
The requirements include the need to cover balconies in a manner consistent with the building’s overall design, with the design subject to evaluation and approval by the municipal authority or city council, following approval by a certified engineering firm.
The Ministry stipulated that the covering materials used must comply with the standards of the Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization (SASO), and that the design must be evaluated by the municipal authority or local government to ensure the harmony of the building’s facade elements.
The Ministry emphasized the importance of fully covering all facades if cladding is approved, using materials and colors that are consistent with the architectural elements and engineering specifications of the facade. It also stressed the need to obtain a restoration permit for any modifications or repairs carried out to ensure compliance with the requirements.
These requirements are expected to contribute to enhancing the urban landscape of Saudi cities by achieving architectural harmony that improves the quality of life and strengthens the visual identity of buildings. This step is part of the Ministry’s efforts to improve the urban environment and achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
