At Stoneman Engineering, we’re proud to have recently completed the design, manufacture, and installation of 57 cantilevered balconies for Adlington Retirement Living on Topsham Road in Exeter. This major project has transformed the retirement apartments by creating private outdoor spaces that combine safety, functionality, and modern architectural appeal.
A Vision for Retirement Living
Adlington Retirement Living wanted their new apartments to provide residents with more than just beautiful interiors — they wanted to extend living spaces outdoors. Their specification called for cantilevered balconies, offering each apartment its own private terrace without the need for ground supports or bolt-on systems.
Durable Design with Premium Materials
Given the building’s exposed external environment and the need for long-term durability, we engineered each balcony using:
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Galvanised and powder-coated steel for strength and weather resistance.
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Powder-coated aluminium cappings and soffits for a sleek finish.
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Balustrade glass infills to maximise light and create unobstructed views.
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Internal drainage systems, designed to comply with BS8579:2020, ensuring efficient water management and low maintenance.
From Design to Installation
The project began with a connection at a “Meet the Buyer” day at Exeter Chiefs, where Adlington Retirement Living outlined their requirements. From there, our team managed every stage of the process:
Detailed Drawings – created in-house, based on designs from the structural engineer and architect, before being approved by the client.
Workshop Manufacture – each balcony was fabricated at our facility, then galvanised and powder-coated for maximum protection.
Pre-Assembly – we fully pre-assembled the balconies in our workshop, reducing the need for working at height during installation.
On-Site Installation – balconies were craned into position using a tower crane, ensuring efficient and safe installation with minimal disruption.
A Year-Long Project
Running from May 2024 to May 2025, the project involved careful coordination between our team, the structural engineers, architects, and the client. The end result is a development that not only looks striking but also provides long-lasting functionality and comfort for its residents.
Client Satisfaction
Adlington Retirement Living was delighted with the finished balconies, praising both the quality of the installation and the professional approach of our team throughout the project.
Bringing Value to Developments
For property developers, architects, and clients alike, cantilevered balconies offer a way to increase usable living space, add kerb appeal, and meet modern expectations for private outdoor areas — all while complying with the latest building regulations.
At Stoneman Engineering, we specialise in creating bespoke balcony solutions that balance design, durability, and practicality.