Making the most of your balcony

PLANNING YOUR SPACE

First of all is envisioning the divisions you want to create and the purposes you want the space to serve. This process will be completely different depending on the type of space you have to work with: a large backyard with a deck or a terrace, or a small apartment or condo balcony. For this reason, we will deal with these spaces in different sections.

STEP 1

STEP 1

The main challenge when it comes to arranging a balcony is its size. Although there are some rather large balconies out there, they just cannot compete with a backyard, even a small one. However, they do offer a few advantages. If they are located on a higher floor, they allow you to enjoy the cool summer breezes and sometimes come with a breathtaking view. It is also cheaper to make over a balcony than an entire backyard. Therefore, you can splurge on luxurious materials and buy that incredible stainless steel barbecue you have your eye on.

STEP 2

STEP 2

Space wise, it is best to choose multi-purpose pieces that won't take up too much space. For example, a cute artificial rattan bistro set including a small round table, two chairs and two ottomans can be used as a dinning area for a romantic supper for two. But the two ottomans can also serve as additional seating for guests or children. And, on hot summer afternoons, the chair-ottoman combo can serve as a lounge chair on which you can sprawl and bask in the sun. If you have enough space, you can buy a larger barbecue, but if you have a small balcony, there now is a whole range of portable barbecues that won't take up space on your balcony and won't force you to give up the joys of grilling.

STEP 3

STEP 3

To liven up your balcony and invite nature in your living space, you can place a few potted plants or hang flower baskets. These green — or other colours in the case of flowers — touches will instantly wake up your space. You can even put your balcony garden to good use and plant fresh herbs that will make your décor and your dishes pop.

STEP 4

STEP 4

Finally, it is easy to feel exposed to the neighbours on a balcony — especially since they tend to be very close. To make your new space a private and cozy little nest, use wood lattice sections and have vines creep on it. You will have a greenery wall in place of your old view on the neighbours.

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