“On weekends, I sit in a lounge chair on my balcony. I love to be outside when the weather’s right. I can stay there pretty much all day.” – Sue Monk Kidd, American Writer
Sue really hit the nail on the head! When the warm weather hits, there’s nothing like enjoying a cold drink and a good book on the sanctuary of my balcony. And when the sun hits – ah, it’s heaven!
Condo and apartment balconies are often overlooked places to decorate and make your own. While storing things on your balcony might be tempting, why not turn it into a chic summer oasis that offers respite and a comfortable hangout for friends?
Here are five steps to help you transform your balcony into an amazing showpiece that reflects your style.
1. Ask yourself: “What will I use my balcony for?”
Every successful decorating project starts with a vision, and your balcony is no exception. The first step to creating your outdoor paradise is to determine what you’ll use it for.
Whether you want your balcony to become a quiet sanctuary, an entertainment spot, or a place for romantic dinners al fresco, think about styles, themes, and colours that appeal to you and will help bring your vision to life.
2. Select furniture for design and purpose
Depending on the size of your balcony, you can add a small sofa or loveseat and lounge chair with soft cushions for added comfort. Rattan and wicker furniture add a touch of elegance to any décor. To help save space, you can use a padded storage bench with a back instead of a sofa to keep your balcony tidy.
Augment your seating choices with folding or side tables to hold drinks, snacks, and decorative items. Also, use furniture covers to keep your seating, tables, and other items clean and dry when not in use.
3. Add lighting to create a mood
Entertain long into the night with outdoor lighting that adds a cozy feel to your balcony. Battery-operated string lights, lanterns, and candles can be combined to create an intimate atmosphere. For an eco-friendly option, swap out battery-operated lights for solar-powered ones.
Citronella candles are also effective lighting options with a pleasant aroma that helps keep those pesky bugs away.
4. Use textiles and other decorative items for a personal touch
Add comfort and style to your balcony by incorporating different textiles such as outdoor rugs, cushions, and throw pillows to enhance comfort and add a pop of colour. You can also elevate the visual character of your balcony with outdoor-friendly decorative items such as wind chimes, statues, mirrors, clocks, and wall art.
Décor can be functional as well as attractive. For example, outdoor wall or floor shelving can add to the appeal of the space and help keep it neat. A stylish balcony bar, ice buckets for drinks, and a portable Bluetooth speaker for music are other items that combine finesse with purpose.
5. Incorporate potted plants to add an element of nature
I love how potted plants create a lush, inviting atmosphere wherever you place them, and there are lots of outdoor potted plant options that will bring your balcony alive. However, you need to consider how much direct sunlight, shade, or wind your balcony is exposed to in order to choose the best plants for your particular space.
For example, snapdragons, cosmos, and jasmine are hardy enough to handle high winds, while plants such as ferns, hydrangeas, and other perennial bedding plants do well in the shade. Try aloe vera, croton, or jade trees if you have a sunny balcony. Herb gardens can also successfully be grown and nurtured on a balcony, and they provide fresh herbs for your summer recipes!
If floor space is limited, try using hanging planters or vertical gardens to ensure you and your guests can move around safely.
6. Keeping the party private
It’s easier to relax and enjoy your balcony if you can have a level of privacy. Even if your condo is clustered between other buildings, you can use privacy solutions such as outdoor curtains, privacy screens, and tall plants such as palms or bamboo to create a more intimate setting.
Follow these tips to create a chic summer oasis of relaxation and joy where you can enjoy morning coffee, afternoon reading, and evening gatherings with friends. Enjoy your refreshed balcony, and we’ll see you next time!
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