Jenny’s Elevated Deck: From Windy Balcony to Protected Lookout

High-up decks offer the best views, but they often come with a catch: they catch the most wind and sun.

Jenny’s deck had a fantastic outlook over the neighbourhood, but being elevated meant it was fully exposed to the elements. She needed a solution that would preserve the view while providing shelter, all without cluttering the compact footprint of the balcony.

The solution was a custom-sized Baltic freestanding motorised louvre roof pergola in a sleek black finish.

The project at a glance

• Client: Jenny

• Model: Baltic Motorised Freestanding Louvre Roof

• Size: Custom 3.8 x 2.3 m

• Finish: Black powder-coated aluminium

• Key features: Integrated LED lighting, custom dimensions, and drop-down privacy screens

A custom fit for a compact space

Standard square pergolas don’t always work on narrow balconies. This project utilised a custom 3.8 x 2.3 m footprint, allowing the structure to maximize the usable deck width without overhanging or feeling bulky.

• Seamless Integration: The black aluminium frame perfectly matches the existing black timber railings and lattice work, making the pergola look like an original part of the home’s architecture rather than an add-on.

• Freestanding Structure: Despite being close to the house, the unit is freestanding, defining the "outdoor room" clearly on the timber decking.

Managing light and privacy on a high deck

On an exposed site, flexibility is key. The motorised louvres allow Jenny to control the overhead sun, while the addition of drop-down mesh screens transforms the usability of the space:

• Wind Protection: When the breeze picks up on the hill, the screens can be lowered to buffer the wind, keeping the seating area calm.

• Privacy without Isolation: The mesh screens provide privacy from neighbouring properties but are transparent enough to keep the view of the hills and sky visible from the inside.

• Day to Night: Integrated LED lighting strips in the louvres mean the balcony doesn't shut down when the sun sets; it becomes a cozy, illuminated lounge for the evening.

The result

What was once a weather-dependent viewing platform is now a functional, all-weather extension of the living space. The dark frame frames the view beautifully, and the ability to close the roof and screens creates a "cocoon" effect that feels private and secure, even high up.

Have a narrow or elevated deck?

If you have a balcony that is hard to use because of wind or harsh sun, a custom-sized pergola might be the answer.

Share your measurements and a photo of your space, and we can help you design a Baltic configuration that fits your specific dimensions—whether standard or custom.

No obligation, just clear options to help you reclaim your view.