When living in a city, one of the sacrifices you make is the amount of space you can get for your buck. For many, and if you’re lucky enough, the balcony may be the only outdoor space where you can escape into the fresh air, without having to walk onto the busy city streets. Balconies, however, are a lovely addition to most houses and apartments, and they can offer much potential.
Trying to figure out how best to decorate your balcony, though, can be problematic. You’ve got to find the best way to take advantage the area you have, without overcrowding or wasting too much space. Here are the best decorating tips and ideas for you and your balcony.
First, Consider What You Want
This is the first call to action. There’s no point shopping if you do not have a vision in mind. Rather than waste time and money buying furniture or decorations, only for them to become pointless, sit down and decide what it is you truly want. Do you want seating, a place to wine and dine with family and friends, or would you like to grow your own produce and have a garden? Although you space is limited, the possibilities are endless.
Cover Any Concrete
Concrete is a cold, hard surface; it can also be rather unsightly. You could spend your money to replace the concrete with a wooden surface instead, or if you live in a sunny climate, have outdoor rugs.
Have Safe Lighting
Like any outside space, you’ll want adequate lighting, so you can enjoy your balcony all year round. Of course, you could distribute candles and light those if you want more intimate lighting, however, you’ll still need LED lights mounted to the wall for safety and visibility as you enter your balcony area. You’ll also want to ensure that the entrance of your balcony is sufficiently lit up, with indoor high bay LED lighting so you can easily access the area from inside out, with minimal risk.
Create Cozy Seating
If you want a space for entertaining, then you’ll need to figure out the best ways to position your seating, as well as the look you’re going for. A cheap and easy option is to find some strong crates and flip them upside down or have them positioned on their sides. Cover with a blanket, place some cushions, and have a side table. This will create a rustic look, which is very much in right now, however, be warned that sitting on crates isn’t the most comfortable.
Other seating ideas include a vintage or rustic looking bench with bespoke seating cushions, or a table and chairs. Depending on the size of your balcony, you could position your bench on the far side, with your table and chairs pushed to the opposite side.
Find Space for Plants
Rather than stuff your balcony with plants, you’ll want to find a select few and distribute them where necessary. Have small flower pots on end tables (which could be a crate), have them tucked by the side of seating, or have a gathering of cacti. Make it fun and colorful, and your mood will lift whenever you step outside.
If you’re struggling with space, you could have pots hanging from the bottom of the above balcony. This vertical garden can also act as a privacy screen between you and your neighbors.
No space is limited, and you can always make use of the smallest of areas. Be efficient and create a vision that works with your balcony, and create an environment that is inviting, creative and homely.
