The Solution: Custom Fabricated Metal Balcony Systems and Gates 

StellarCraft designed, fabricated, and installed 78 custom metal balcony systems for each apartment unit. The balcony measured approximately 10’ 8” in length with 2’ returns on each side that attached directly to the building structure. 

The new balconies were designed to meet ADA and IBC requirements for Minnesota’s demanding weather conditions, including high winds, snow loads, and the additional weight of items such as hanging plants. 

To ensure a precise fit and long-term performance, every component was fabricated in-house using advanced manufacturing equipment. Aluminum posts, rails, brackets, and mounting components were laser cut, machined, formed, welded, and assembled by our skilled fabrication team before being installed on-site. The balcony systems were engineered to attach directly to the existing structural studs while maintaining the proper code-required spacing between the deck surface and railing. After fabrication, the railings were powder coating with an AAMA compliant white finish. 

Two years after the original installation, the community returned to StellarCraft to add secure ground-level access gates. Working alongside Metal Wood Custom Fabrication, new gates were designed to blend seamlessly with the existing balcony railings, making the additions look as though they had always been part of the original project. Each gate was equipped with adjustable self-closing hinges and lockable latches for added security. Rather than setting the hinge orientation during fabrication, the installation team fitted each gate on-site, so the swing direction could be customized to each homeowner’s preference.