Stormy weather got you down? Fret not. Summer will be back soon enough, and with it, the chance to soak up as much time as possible in your backyard.
But you’re an apartment or condo dweller, you say? Instead of a lush backyard, all you have is a tiny balcony. Not a problem. Even if your concrete slab of outdoor space isn’t looking very inviting right now, there’s no need to stay inside and be miserable. There’s still plenty of time to turn your little balcony into an urban retreat.
The important thing is not to let your balcony become a home for bikes, toys and other junk. Transform it into a functional recreational space where you can sit and watch the world go by.
Some design tips to take your small balcony to the next level.
Make the flooring beautiful
The worst part about apartment balconies may be the cold concrete flooring. Unless you’ve had a tetanus shot recently, you don’t want to step outside with bare feet.
But that can easily be remedied by covering over it with easy-install wood, or plastic patio tiles. Once you have the flooring down, finish the job with a beautiful outdoor-friendly rug.
Forgo the bistro table
Your balcony is small and narrow, so you might think a small, round bistro table for two is the way to go. Instead, go for a rectangular table. If you push it up against the rail edge of the balcony, you can fit two chairs on the sides, plus a narrow bench on the other. Boom—instant dinner party for four. A hanging table would also be a good idea as these don’t take up valuable floor or visual space.
Go global
Use your small outdoor spot to create your own permanent vacation spot. Weaving global textiles into a small outdoor space can transport you from your apartment balcony to anywhere in the world. To start, try adding a few small items such as exotic cushions, then hang a few lanterns overhead to achieve a Turkish or Moroccan look on a budget.
Take it tropical
If the beach is your scene, set up a corner of a small balcony to be a tropical oasis. You’ll need a wicker chair or decorative palm accents. You’ll feel like you’re in Bali, even if you haven’t gone anywhere.
Hang your greens
On a small balcony, think vertically—especially when it comes to plants. Get those pots off the floor, and save that space to use. Hang potted plants from the ceiling with a sturdy hook, or in wall-mounted planters. Bottom line: the more plants, the better.
Tiny space, big color
Bright colors bring emphasis to a tiny balcony garden,. Transform a blank wall into a creative work of tangible art using well placed colorful pots. Matching plant markers keep the plants organized without attracting too much attention. The wood on the balcony floor visually blends with the home’s wood floor bringing the home’s design outdoors.
Home extension
Bring traditionally used indoor pieces to your balcony space, to get an indoor room feel. Flowers can be grown in baskets as well as garden boxes. Small home decor touches such as the tablecloth and vase of flowers can give a balcony a café feel. An awning can add to the tearoom ambiance.
Secret garden
A serene balcony garden is reminiscent of a secret Victorian garden with the ivy growing along the stone wall. Growing trees in pots is a great way to add vertical elements. Stack pots for added height. A modest café table ensures a nice place to sit for coffee, tea, or simply a place to rest.
Deck balcony
If a deck is what you desire, consider adding wood deck tiles to your balcony garden design. This can be installed over your existing balcony floor with relative ease. Using neutral tones and different textile textures maintain the integrity of a peaceful, low key space.
