Balcony usage as a space to achieve human well-being during pandemic COVID-19

People who lived through the COVID-19 lockdowns have been reported to experience temporary depression, loneliness, and discomfort. Balcony can serve as an accessible place of respite to ease emotional distress when being confined at home. This research aims to systematically study balcony usage and design preference as a space to achieve well-being. It is based on views of apartment dwellers who experienced lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. From literature reviews and surveys, 14 popular balcony activities and 29 balcony design elements were derived and used in a questionnaire supplemented with drawings to best illustrate some of the concept. 505 effective samples (N = 505) were received from Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Portugal. Statistical analyzed results showed that Getting sun and air, Gardening, and Watching/Observing the street are the three most preferred balcony activities among these countries. The preferred balcony views, types, enclosures, decorations, and sizes are ranked with Friedman Test and summarized in this paper along with the relevant cultures and lifestyles discussion. The comprehensive findings of this study can offer architects and housing developers valuable insights for making design decision and promote well-being in apartment dwelling balcony design. Ultimately, balcony is an important component in an apartment. It can be used, not only, to reduce feelings of isolation, but also, to conduct social activities and housework during a pandemic lockdown.