The History of Juliet Balconies: From Shakespearean Romance to Modern Chic

Rose Morrison

Jan 31, 2025

old juliet balcony

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When hearing the term “balcony,” many quickly imagine the more enormous terraces where people can fit tables and chairs for gatherings. As a result, they are quick to disregard investing in any of these home additions. However, you may just be overlooking the balcony style that fits you. A Juliet balcony is a minimal addition that creates maximum impact on building design.

The Origin of the Juliet Balcony

These balconettes or false balconies were much more popular back in the day. They were viewed as an elegant feature in the most grandiose houses. Now, they’re seen as a vintage element. Here’s a short timeline of the history of the Juliet balcony.

Shakespearean Literature

Many people covet physical books of the Shakespearean classics. It is no surprise, as they contain visual appeal and intellectual energy. Their content has also come to inspire architecture, specifically the 1590s love story “Romeo and Juliet.”

The balcony holds so much significance in the story. It’s the first place Romeo hears Juliet speak and how she looks, marveling at her beauty. They later talk to one another and further their romance by declaring their love.

Many theorize that the balcony signified the barrier between Romeo and Juliet and their families. The story of star-crossed lovers simply spoke to the hearts of many, which is a testament to its popularity and influence. Architecture enthusiasts can visit Juliet’s House in Verona and look at the original balcony, dubbed “Casa di Giulietta.” 

Italian Renaissance

The infamous “Romeo and Juliet” was published just around the end of the late Renaissance, which culminated in the 1600s. This period started to adopt architecture with greater emphasis on decorative qualities rather than structural relationships, which can allude to the popularity of these romantic balconies. 

It’s a slightly stark difference from the early and High Renaissance, which centered more on fortification. Buildings such as churches were enclosed by other walls to create a sanctuary, with semicircular domes raised high and proud.  

If anything, the Shakespearean romance had impeccable timing, as there was growing attention for the arts. Antique decorative items such as medallions and classical gems were totally in style. Walled gardens, also a key structure in “Romeo and Juliet,” gained popularity too.  

European Architecture

Renaissance made a lasting impression, spreading to spaces outside Italy’s vicinity. Juliet balconies were mainly trendy in Britain and Mediterranean countries like France, Spain and Portugal around the 18th to 19th century.

The balconette had particularly become a staple in French architecture. There would be at least two stories with chic exteriors, with the Juliet balcony used as a frame for the French doors that open inward to truly culminate the Chateau style. It’s perhaps why some people refer to the Juliet balcony as the French balcony. 

Modern Architecture

Whatever term you may use for the Juliet balcony, it’s undoubtedly a key structural element. It had traveled borders, from Europe to the U.S. and other parts of the world. Now, it’s still traversing time as architects adapt it for modern building design. 

The two main factors that make Juliet balconies relevant today are their decorative impact and functionality. This small addition enhances residential spaces. Protecting people when opening windows or doors is also an important consideration for building designers. Some people go as far as adding the railing indoors to ensure safety.

modern juliet balcony

Design Elements of Juliet Balconies

The Juliet balcony is characterized as a narrow and shallow platform. Certain designs eliminate the actual deck, so it’s mainly a connection of balustrades to create the illusion of a balcony. It would act more as a security barrier for glass and sliding windows. 

Materials

The original Juliet balcony was originally made of stones, and it has recently been restored with its marble remains and bricks. However, more modern variations now focus on using wrought iron, aluminum and other types of metal instead. Certain designers also use glass to frame the railing, playing into the appearance of the false balcony. 

Decorative Elements

A Juliet balcony typically spans the length of the window or door it’s in front of. However, some building designers decide to spread it across the whole wall width to give it a more expanded look. Vines typically climb up, serving as the decoration. Soft, warm lighting fixtures can also bring a cozy atmosphere to these shallow platforms.

Railing Style and Pattern

Railing design and pattern can make or break the look of a Juliet balcony. Plainer ones made of steel will typically have a thinner look. However, it’s better to have decorative balustrades with intricate patterns to build into the 1950s elegance and romance that the original Shakespearean classic bodes. 

balconettes

Benefits of Juliet Balconies

Would it be worth adding a Juliet balcony to the building design? There are several reasons why this addition to your space would be a reasonable consideration.

Resale Value

Juliet balconies are a simple way to increase a property’s value. Building these terraces can cost up to $35 per square foot on average, making these narrower patterns a smaller investment. The improvement would be a considerable incentive to potential buyers, provided it is well done and appealing to the eyes.

Curb Appeal

Buildings with a Juliet balcony simply have more character to them. Especially with more intricate railing, it adds an extra layer that separates it from the typical American household, aligning more with French architecture. It’s perfect when you want to stand out from the neighborhood or adopt more European elements.

Quality of Life

Juliet balconies add safety when opening windows and doors. Whether you want to invite more light or air into the home, you can do so with less worry, increasing quality of life on all sides. Plus, while you can’t stand on it like other terraces, you can use the extra space as a gardening space by adding a few planters to the railing. 

Appreciate Balcony Design

The Juliet balcony is a humble design that has so many deep origins, and it’s somehow inspiring how it still holds a candle to today’s innovation. Whether you’re seeking vintage elements or browsing through timeless architectural structures, it’s important to appreciate the past and how far designs have come. 

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