Latest news with #balcony
CTV News
3 days ago
- CTV News
SIU investigating death of person who fell from balcony in Toronto's St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood
One person has died after a fall from a balcony near Church Street and The Esplanade. (Mike Nguyen/ CP24) The Special Investigations Unit has invoked its mandate after a person fell to their death from a balcony in Toronto's St. Lawrence Market neighbourhood, Toronto police say. According to police, officers were called to the area of Church Street and The Esplanade at around 1:56 a.m. for a call about a person in crisis. At some point after the arrival of officers, the person fell from a balcony and died from their injuries, police said. Three officers sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the interaction, police said. The SIU will be investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. The SIU is called in to investigate any time police are involved in an incident that results in death, serious injuries, allegations of sexual assault, and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. Church Street is closed from Front Street to The Esplanade and it is unclear when the area will reopen.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Ultimate £11 Range buy will give you privacy while sunbathing on balcony – it's renter friendly & lasts all year round
IF you plan to pan out on your balcony and soak up the sun, this buy may be for you. A budget item can help to elevate the privacy of your outdoor space all summer long. 3 Whether you live over a busy road or next to nosy neighbours, this product from The Range will help to shield you from view. So for an affordable price, you can relax and enjoy your space without prying eyes. The Gr8 Black Garden Balcony Privacy Screen Net is available for just £11.04 from The Range. According to manufacturers, this buy can help "enjoy privacy while relaxing or sun bathing on your balcony". This polyester balcony shade is described as "tough and durable" and can be easily secured with cable ties, making it ideal for renters. As well as shielding you from neighbours, the screen net blocks 95% of harmful UV radiation. It is also weatherproof and can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth and is machine washable at 30 degrees. The black netting measures three metres in width and 0.9 metres in height. And experts have also revealed another budget buy that can help add privacy to your balcony. Staggering hanging baskets around your balcony can create a natural barrier for your space. I transformed my garden patio into summer haven for less than £100 with cheap B&M buys including gadget to keep bugs out And there are also a variety of other buys available for elevating your garden's privacy. Meanwhile, Amazon has a £14 privacy buy that is described as "perfect" for summer. Another privacy fence is also available from Amazon, for just £5. B&Q has an affordable privacy fence currently on sale, and you can put it up yourself. And a £10 B&M product adds inches to your fence, elevating your garden's privacy. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. You can also add a stylish touch to your privacy fence with another B&M buy. And its not just fences that can help give you privacy in your garden, one B&M item can help shield you from nosy neighbours and the sun. Meanwhile, a Home Bargains buy is said to add a touch of glamour to your garden. Another item from the bargain retailer is perfect for attracting birds to your space. A £3 buy from B&M is can also help to add privacy to your garden this summer. 3
Daily Mail
11-06-2025
- Daily Mail
Cruise passengers issued stern warning over 'disrespectful' balcony trend: 'Just don't do it'
Carnival Cruise Line has issued a warning to passengers taking part in an unsafe balcony trend on its cruise ships. An image of a couple relaxing on a mattress on their cruise ship balcony recently went viral. The pair appeared to have dragged their bedding out on to the balcony so they could read their books outside. In another incident, Sarah Goodwin filmed herself dragging her mattress out to the balcony and told other cruisers they would 'not regret it'. But other passengers were less than impressed by Goodwin's behaviour with one person saying in a cruise group: 'That is a big no no. I find it incredibly disrespectful.' Another person added: 'You will [regret it] when your mattress is covered in salt and moist from the humid air and I bet the cruise company don't like that much either for those reasons.' And now Carnival Cruise Line's ambassador John Heald has explained what the brand really thinks of mattress balconies. In a social media post the ambassador warned: 'That is not allowed for safety reasons, cleanliness reasons, for all sorts of reasons. 'You cannot take your mattress and put it on your balcony. Don't do it. Just don't.' John also addressed a few other passenger queries about cruise ship balconies. The ambassador said that some guests had written to him to complain about other passengers sleeping with their balcony door open. The complaining guests had argued that it was 'selfish' as it stopped the air conditioning running in other cabins. But John said that's simply a rumour and sleeping with an open balcony door won't affect the air conditioning. 'Some people have said that passengers who leave the balcony door of their cabin open that it is selfish because it turns the air conditioning off for other cabins in that area,' said John. 'That is not true. Regardless of those who say it is, I have confirmed with the highest level, the chief engineers on the ships, and they confirm it only turns off the air conditioning in your cabin and does not affect those around you.' However, the ambassador did warn guests to be careful of a few things if they want to sleep with the balcony door open. Cruise balcony doors are liable to slam due to the wind out at sea. John urged passengers to 'watch their hands' when they operate the door and also asked passengers not to let the door slam as it may disturb their neighbours. The ambassador asked passengers to 'please be gracious and think of others' and advised them to keep an object in the door opening to prevent in slamming. Cruise balcony doors are liable to slam due to the wind out at sea. John urged passengers to 'watch their hands' when they operate the door and also asked passengers not to let the door slam as it may disturb their neighbours (stock image) Carnival Cruise Line also recently clarified a rule about a banned item on its cruise ships. Paper or cardboard fans aren't allowed to be used on any of the line's indoor dancefloors. Guests can still bring electronically operated personal fans as long as they comply with size requirements. Booking a cruise soon? Veteran guests have revealed exactly how to choose the perfect cabin for your trip.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Family's message as they hit back at party claims in neighbourhood row
A row over a balcony to allow a mother and daughter to sit together came to a head as neighbours complained the extension would rob them of light. Plans for a number of changes to 33 Beacon Drive in Newton near West Kirby on the Wirral were approved by a Wirral Council planning committee on June 5. This included a two storey side extension, a single storey rear extension and balcony, front porch, and changes to a garden including a new patio. The plans were put forward to allow a family to care for an elderly relative with some of the changes designed to make the house more accessible. Two people in favour of the development said it would be a positive contribution to the area. However the plans came under fire from 27 neighbours as well as West Kirby councillor Jenny Johnson. READ MORE: Trent Alexander-Arnold's 'generous' act as lasting gift to Liverpool confirmed READ MORE: Police swarm area as boy, 15, 'seen with gun' The main concerns raised included overlooking and privacy with the extension described as 'overbearing and dominating' and a balcony they claimed towered over its neighbours. At the planning committee meeting, two neighbours spoke against the plans. They argued it would cause lasting harm to neighbours, arguing the wrong house had been bought. One neighbour said it had been 'the most stressful nine months for us' as they had battled against the plans, adding: 'It will rob us of light and loom over our heads when we are outside.' He claimed that 'whenever we go outside we will wonder who is looking down on us.' Cllr Johnson urged councillors to refuse the plans but if they were to approve it, they should make sure the balcony couldn't be extended further. She told the committee: 'This is one of the worst cases I have come across in my time as a councillor.' Challenging these claims was Emma Breen, speaking on behalf of the applicant. She said it was a household application for a family home that would allow multiple generations to live together and allow a family member to be cared for. She argued each house in the area was different. Responding to claims the balcony would be used for parties, she said: 'This is a personal, household development. The balcony for example was never meant for parties. 'It was a way for the applicant and her mother, who is no longer able to travel, to enjoy a quiet moment together while overlooking the water. In truth, the revised balcony is now so reduced that accommodating this would be difficult.' She also claimed that some neighbours had been approached directly to support objections. She argued the process must 'remain fair and impartial when essential care needs are at stake.' Following a debate, committee chair Cllr Stuart Kelly said there was no doubt the type of application before them was difficult, adding: 'It isn't about 'there can't be any views into any neighbouring properties in an urban area'. That would be ridiculous.' He added: 'It's whether it is to an unacceptable degree. At my house, if I look out of my rear bedroom windows, I have got a fairly clear view of most of my neighbour's gardens as it stands.' Councillors voted to unanimously approve the application with a condition including restricting the size of the balcony. In the same meeting, a seven-bed house of multiple occupation was also refused on Serpentine Road in Liscard following a number of concerns raised by local councillor Graeme Cooper. Councillors from all parties criticised the fact changes had been made to the building to accommodate seven bedrooms and called for standards to be maintained. Cllr Paul Stuart said: 'This can only be described as trying to pile them in and pack them as high as possible to get as much out of a smaller space.'
Irish Times
03-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Times
Seek the pattern: how to infuse your outdoor space with summer staycation style
Pattern is having a real moment, both in fashion and interiors. From bold boho prints to vintage-inspired florals, these feel-good designs are everywhere. But pattern isn't just for summer wardrobes or interior makeovers – it's also a brilliant way to bring a relaxed holiday vibe to your outdoor space. Whether you have a garden, a bijou balcony, or a cosy courtyard, a few carefully chosen patterns can instantly transport you somewhere sunnier. Here's how to use patterns outdoors for a hit of staycation style. Choose the right pattern for your space Before diving into prints and colours, take a moment to look at your outdoor space as a whole. The key to using pattern well is making sure it complements the setting. Start by considering the style of your garden. Is it neatly structured and formal, with clipped hedges and symmetrical planting? If so, classic patterns such as stripes, trellis motifs or tailored geometrics will sit beautifully within that order. Think striped deck chairs, monochrome geometric cushions, or encaustic-style tiles in a traditional motif. A tailored look works beautifully here, especially when repeated in symmetrical arrangements. If your garden leans more rural or wild, with loose planting and natural materials, try organic prints such as soft florals, leafy botanicals or hand-drawn illustrations. READ MORE And if you've gone for a more tropical, holiday-inspired feel with palms, bold colours or rattan furniture, don't be afraid to go bolder with vibrant hues and punchy patterns. Leafy motifs, Moroccan-style tiles and geometric patterned textiles in sunny colours all complement a more tropical setting. Outdoor floor tiles Patterned floor tiles are one of the most transformative ways to elevate your outdoor space. They can define zones, inject instant personality and bring a touch of continental style to even the dullest patio. Use them to create a defined dining area, a tiled pathway or even as a decorative riser on garden steps. Classic encaustic-style tiles are ideal for courtyards or period homes. Bold geometrics or Mediterranean-inspired designs work beautifully in sun-drenched spots or tropical planting schemes, adding that relaxed, holiday-at-home feel. Whatever design you choose, make sure your tiles are rated for outdoor use. Look for styles that are nonslip, frost-resistant and durable enough to withstand the Irish weather, particularly if your patio is exposed to heavy rain or winter frost. Porcelain tiles are an excellent option because of their resilience and design versatility. Tiles are also a brilliant way to bring pattern and texture to vertical surfaces outdoors Patterned wall tiles Tiles are also a brilliant way to bring pattern and texture to vertical surfaces outdoors. Whether you want to add a feature wall, dress up an unsightly blockwork surface or bring definition to a functional zone, patterned wall tiles offer a high-impact, low-maintenance solution. One of the most effective ways to use them is as a splashback behind an outdoor kitchen or barbecue area. Not only does this add colour and style, but it also protects your surfaces from cooking splashes and makes cleanup a breeze. Choose tiles with a glossy or sealed finish for easy maintenance, and repeat colours or motifs elsewhere in your space to tie everything together. Tiles can also be used to finish permanent outdoor furniture, such as the front of a built-in bench, the sides of a garden bar or even a planter box. This is a clever way to introduce pattern in a contained, intentional way, especially in small or paved spaces where soft furnishings might be limited. For a bold look, go for Moroccan-inspired designs, intricate geometrics or playful Mediterranean prints. For a more understated look, try monochrome patterns or textured neutrals that add depth without being overpowering. Accessorise with pattern If you're looking for a low-commitment way to introduce pattern, accessories are a great bet. They're flexible, affordable and easy to swap out with the seasons or even your mood, making them ideal for experimenting without any pressure. Outdoor rugs are a great way to bring pattern underfoot, especially on concrete, paving or timber decking, where things can feel a little stark. A striped or geometric design can help define different zones – such as dining versus lounging areas – and adds a soft, room-like feel to your space. Look for materials such as woven polypropylene or recycled PET, which are designed to withstand Irish showers, UV rays and the occasional muddy footprint. Patterned cushions are a particularly simple and effective way to add character. Whether you're working with a garden bench, a corner sofa or just a few folding chairs, cushions in bold stripes, oversized florals or playful abstract prints can instantly lift your space. Outdoor fabrics have come a long way: they're now UV-resistant, quick-drying and water-repellent, making them as practical as they are stylish. Parasols can also be a brilliant statement piece. A candy-striped design channels a chic, European cafe look, while botanical or tropical prints blend beautifully with the surrounding greenery. Not only do they provide much-needed shade, but they also add height, drama and a pop of pattern. Finally, don't overlook the finishing touches. Patterned plates, block-printed linens or a decorative tray can help create a layered, curated feel. These smaller elements are ideal for experimenting with patterns in a low-key, flexible way. And remember, pattern doesn't have to be bold. A soft stripe or subtle weave can be just as effective. Whether your style is minimal or eclectic, there's always a way to make pattern work outdoors.
