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Contemporary challenges and technological developments inevitably trigger changes in how we design and build our cities. The traditional construction industry suffers from inefficiencies that render methods slow, expensive, or harmful to the environment. Excessive material waste and lengthy build times pose significant challenges to built environment professionals, calling attention to the complexity and rigidity of conventional construction processes. The optimization of time and physical resources in construction calls for innovative methods that enhance efficiency.

In an industry where innovation often moves with the eagerness of setting mortar, WoHo Systems, one of ArchDaily's 2024 Best New Practices, has emerged as a disruptor aiming to address global sustainability and housing affordability issues. Born from the experimental roots of Ensamble Studio, this architectural startup wields prefabrication and sustainability as core pillars to redefine construction norms and deliver adaptable building solutions. Their solutions aim to speed up and simplify the construction process, as well as reduce costs and minimize environmental impact.

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In dense urban living, the ability to connect with the outdoors for enjoyment and for wellbeing becomes starkly important. This became particularly apparent in the COVID-19 pandemic when millions of people across the globe had to be confined to their homes for long periods. Notwithstanding that, as the world increasingly urbanizes, good quality housing design is vital and this includes access to the outside. In a city like London, this need was recognized, and providing an outside space in every dwelling became mandatory around the year 2010. In multi-storey housing, providing outside space usually takes the form of a balcony. The design possibilities are endless, so what are the key considerations when incorporating balconies in an urban residential building?

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