Rhomberg

Gardening on balconies

This is what the new balconies will look like: Each one is equipped with two vertical beds.(Bild: Rhomberg Bau)

The Vorarlberg-based company Rhomberg Bau is implementing innovative vertical beds on balconies. This is already being implemented in Vienna. 

After two test runs in Vienna and Vitis (Lower Austria), the Vorarlberg-based company Rhomberg Bau is now implementing its "edible" balconies as part of a residential building renovation: In Vienna's 10th district, residents have access to balconies on which vertical beds have already been installed. They can then grow herbs or vegetables there.

Short set-up time ideal for renovations
The whole thing is watered with rainwater, which is collected in a 15,000 liter tank in the courtyard. The pump, which then transports the water to the vertical beds, is powered by a photovoltaic system mounted on the roof. The installation of the balconies - 32 in total - should take no longer than five days.

This is made possible by Rhomberg's "smart" balcony system: the balconies are simply lifted onto the façade as a ready-made construction element. "Our system enables efficient and resident-friendly implementation, as the balconies with flooring, railings and plant modules are attached to the façade as a whole," explains Paul Rasper, who is responsible for the edible balconies at Rhomberg.

The elements will not only provide fresh vegetables, but also improve the microclimate in summer thanks to their shade.