With more people opting to stay home in recent months, balconies have been popping up all over the internet. Overseas, people have been applauding to cheer on essential workers, taking part in communal singalongs to lighten spirits and even playing full concerts, all from these narrow strips of space. The balcony is clearly where it’s at.

In Japan, the balcony has largely remained a utilitarian space for drying laundry and storing supplies. The culture of using the beranda (veranda/balcony) is one of practicality.

“Historically, I think the prevalence of the balcony is mainly for the convenience of airing futons, which can be draped over the railing,” says Alastair Townsend, an architect who co-founded his own firm, Bakoko, in Japan in 2009. “Without much space indoors, the balcony has always been a utilitarian extension to the home, and not seen as a leisure amenity.”