Bermondsey Balcony Install Remote Locker Device

Innovation & Patents

Laminate Glass Balconies at Greenwich Millennium Village

Why is Innovation Central to Sapphire’s Success?

Innovation has always been one of Sapphire’s core values

From our earliest projects, continuous improvement and practical problem-solving have shaped how we design, manufacture, and deliver our systems.

Working on the principle that an hour in the factory saves ten on site, we focus on prefinished solutions that improve efficiency and quality. What began with prefinished balustrades has evolved into complete balcony systems, with our Next Generation Balconies now setting the standard for speed, reliability, and precision.

How Has Sapphire Transformed Balcony Design?

In 2012, we recognised the need for a better alternative to traditional bolt-on balconies and began developing a completely new approach. That same year, we filed our first patent application, which marked the start of what is now a market-leading system supported by over 50 patent and registered design applications.

This investment in research and development has transformed installation efficiency. On projects across the UK, installation teams have completed more than 60 balconies in a single day. These results demonstrate how focused design and engineering can significantly improve on-site performance.

What Makes Sapphire’s Balconies Perform Differently?

Our design and engineering teams have worked to resolve common challenges within the market. Through testing and refinement, our anchors now achieve half the allowed L/180 deflection, addressing the issue of movement in completed balconies.

We have also improved every detail, including deck finishes, soffits, drainage, thermal bridging, and balustrade fixings. Many of these developments are recognised through UK and international patents. Each improvement is designed to deliver higher safety standards, faster installation, and long-term durability.

How Does Sapphire Innovate Beyond Products?

Innovation at Sapphire extends to every stage of delivery. The move from traditional bolt-on methods to innovative methods such as Glide-On™ and Clip-On required entirely new approaches to logistics and installation. We have developed remote locking arms, lorry loading systems, counterbalance crane attachments, internal door guards, and other specialist equipment to support safe, consistent installation on site.

For unique project challenges, we design bespoke solutions. Examples include roof hoists used to install balconies after tower crane removal, and safety screens that provide protection from falls and weather during installation. Each new process is designed to enhance safety, improve speed, and maintain quality on every project.

What Does Innovation Mean For The Future?

Our focus remains on refining our systems, improving our processes, and setting new benchmarks for balcony delivery. Every improvement contributes to faster, safer, and more sustainable balcony installation. Through this approach, Sapphire continues to lead the market in engineered innovation and responsible construction.