Is your balcony neglected? When you rent an apartment, it is always difficult to decide what to do with it and, often, you end up leaving it empty or putting your bicycle and bottle crates in it. With a little imagination, however, even the smallest of balconies can be transformed into a small oasis.
Steps
Method 1 of 6: Evaluate the Space
Step 1. Furnishing small balconies can be a challenge
Let's start by establishing its dimensions: is it short and square or long and narrow? Is it indoor or open? Is the floor made of wood or made of tiles? Knowing these details will help you determine which furniture, plants, and accessories will work best. For example, a huge bench on a tiny balcony will take up all the space.
The furniture should fit the shape of the balcony
Step 2. Establish your wishes
Do you want to improve it from an aesthetic point of view, create a space for the barbecue or create a corner to relax and have a quiet conversation? As it will be impossible to do all of this, determine your priorities.
Step 3. Know the rules
The landlord, or the real estate agency, can tell you what you can and what you can't do on the balcony. For example, barbecues are prohibited in many condominiums.
Step 4. Get to know the neighbors and don't forget their presence while planning the balcony design
A bonsai rainforest definitely won't appeal to anyone living downstairs.
Method 2 of 6: Build Your Own Paradise
Method 3 of 6: = The Garden of Pleasures
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Step 1. Enjoy the beauty of nature
If your balcony is very small, consider creating a garden. Mix seasonal and perennial plants, ivy and herbs that you can use in the kitchen. Buy a couple of wicker chairs and soft cushions.
Step 2. Layer
Place the plants that need sun higher up and those that prefer shade below. Fill the corners with plants such as rosemary and tomatoes.
Step 3. Keep it fresh
Water it regularly, fertilize the plants and prune them.
Step 4. If you have neighbors downstairs, make sure the plants don't disturb them
Method 4 of 6: = The Cozy Refuge
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Step 1. Sit back, relax, take in the views
One of the easiest ways to make the balcony comfortable is to add a couple of chairs and a small table; here you can chat or have a snack.
Step 2. Choose the chairs according to the space
If the balcony is long and narrow, put a park bench, a bench in which to store objects or a swing and add a table for drinks, books, glasses, sun lotion and other useful items.
Step 3. If you have space, add flowers and plants
Your main goal is not to create a garden, but these elements will add an extra welcoming touch.
Step 4. Light it up
If the electrical installation is ready, put a warm light bulb or a row of Christmas lights. Otherwise, candles are an excellent alternative. Ask if you can use them and turn them off when you get home.
Step 5. If the balcony is outdoors, buy weatherproof furniture:
you don't want them to be ruined.
Method 5 of 6: = The Male Lair
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Step 1. Other than flowers
The balcony will be dedicated to barbecue, beer and friends!
Step 2. Buy the barbecue after asking if you are allowed to do so
Since it will represent the center of the space, place it in front of the window, so you can immediately go back into the house to find what you need in the kitchen.
Step 3. Barbecues sometimes last late
Buy a lamp suitable for outdoors.
Step 4. Add chairs:
you will want to sit down and talk about the last game, about your boss, etc.
Step 5. Fresh drinks
Buy a small outdoor refrigerator, which will also come in handy for storing whatever you want. Make sure you cover it to prevent it from getting dirty.
In case you can't add the fridge, a cooler can be a good alternative… and it can also be used to sit on
Method 6 of 6: Be Creative
Step 1. Express yourself:
your balcony is an integral part of the house.
Step 2. Paint the walls and match the cushions, alternating different patterns, fabrics and textures
Step 3. Get what you need at the flea market, on eBay and in low cost stores
Step 4. Hang pictures, calendars, decorative thermometers and barometers and other items that put you in a good mood
Obviously, make sure that everything is resistant to water and wind.
Advice
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Take into account everything around you: sun, wind, neighbors, etc.
- Place the chairs perpendicular to the sun's rays so they won't bother you.
- Do not place plants that require sunlight if not even a ray of light reaches your balcony.
- If you have noisy neighbors, set up waterproof, sound-absorbing curtains that you can pull down when necessary.
- If the weather is often bad in your area or earthquakes are frequent, make sure everything is stable.
- Before starting work, consult the owner or the real estate agency to find out if you can make a certain change or if there are standards to be respected. The rules can be dictated by the condominium or by the municipality.
- Watch furniture tv programs and write down the tips that are right for you.
- Be minimalist. Leave room for any items you may have forgotten or for future changes.
