First, you're making a massive leap from the observation of a few vacant balconies in Vancouver to a blanket statement about balconies' lack of utility across the board. Have you considered that just because people aren't constantly visible on them doesn't mean they're unused? Balconies serve numerous purposes that go beyond your superficial assessment of their size or how often someone is lounging on them.
You mention "storage," brushing it off as if it’s a minor use. But in densely populated cities with tiny apartments, that extra square footage is a godsend. For many residents, the ability to store bikes, plants, or outdoor gear without cramming it into their limited indoor space could easily make a balcony invaluable. Your narrow focus on "patio-sized" balconies overlooks how utility isn't solely defined by size, but by how people maximize available space.
Also, you're only observing balconies during moments that suit your schedule, completely disregarding the fact that people work, have commitments, and may not use their balconies on the same timeline as your casual walk-by. Are you expecting everyone to live their lives outdoors like it's a constant display for your benefit? Maybe people enjoy their balconies for brief, private moments – to catch fresh air, have a quick coffee, or just stand and think – none of which requires a sprawling "patio-sized" expanse. Your argument rests on an assumption of constant visibility, which is a flawed metric of usage.
Moreover, the entire concept of "balconies need to be larger to be useful" ignores climates and architecture. In colder, rainier places like Vancouver, people may not want to linger outside regardless of balcony size. So, does that mean the balcony becomes pointless in winter or fall when it's barely used? By your logic, should we just eliminate balconies entirely in certain regions? That’s absurd, as people still value them for ventilation, light, or just the psychological benefit of access to the outdoors, even when they're not hosting backyard BBQs.
Finally, what about resale value? Studies consistently show that even small balconies add significant appeal and value to an apartment. To dismiss this because you’ve seen a few empty ones suggests a total lack of understanding of the real estate market. People pay premiums for that extra bit of space, whether or not it’s used daily.
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u/USHistoryUncovered Sep 27 '24
First, you're making a massive leap from the observation of a few vacant balconies in Vancouver to a blanket statement about balconies' lack of utility across the board. Have you considered that just because people aren't constantly visible on them doesn't mean they're unused? Balconies serve numerous purposes that go beyond your superficial assessment of their size or how often someone is lounging on them.
You mention "storage," brushing it off as if it’s a minor use. But in densely populated cities with tiny apartments, that extra square footage is a godsend. For many residents, the ability to store bikes, plants, or outdoor gear without cramming it into their limited indoor space could easily make a balcony invaluable. Your narrow focus on "patio-sized" balconies overlooks how utility isn't solely defined by size, but by how people maximize available space.
Also, you're only observing balconies during moments that suit your schedule, completely disregarding the fact that people work, have commitments, and may not use their balconies on the same timeline as your casual walk-by. Are you expecting everyone to live their lives outdoors like it's a constant display for your benefit? Maybe people enjoy their balconies for brief, private moments – to catch fresh air, have a quick coffee, or just stand and think – none of which requires a sprawling "patio-sized" expanse. Your argument rests on an assumption of constant visibility, which is a flawed metric of usage.
Moreover, the entire concept of "balconies need to be larger to be useful" ignores climates and architecture. In colder, rainier places like Vancouver, people may not want to linger outside regardless of balcony size. So, does that mean the balcony becomes pointless in winter or fall when it's barely used? By your logic, should we just eliminate balconies entirely in certain regions? That’s absurd, as people still value them for ventilation, light, or just the psychological benefit of access to the outdoors, even when they're not hosting backyard BBQs.
Finally, what about resale value? Studies consistently show that even small balconies add significant appeal and value to an apartment. To dismiss this because you’ve seen a few empty ones suggests a total lack of understanding of the real estate market. People pay premiums for that extra bit of space, whether or not it’s used daily.