How to Bring Big Style to a Small Balcony
Is it the tinkle of wind chimes
the cooing of birds
gentle breeze caressing my hair
or the flights of imagination while dozing
whatever, it’s my place in the sun…
Living in cramped spaces and concrete jungles has become all too common today; hence having an outdoor space is a wonderful luxury even if it comes in the form of a small apartment balcony. That feeling when you step out to enjoy the fresh air while being in the confines of your own private space ~ sigh!
Well, that makes me think aloud; have you thought of transforming your limited square footage and creating a customised personal space that can be your escape to paradise? There are actually a lot of great ways to do so, and I have a few simple and easy decorating tools which can be the starting point to make your small balcony define freedom with its beautiful settings.
How to Bring Big Style to a Small Balcony
- What It Means To You
Think about what your main aim is. Being a small area, it would be better not to cramp the place with your endless ideas; instead, decide whether you want a place suffused in green to put your feet up and relax, or an outdoor dining space, or a cosy reading place where you can get lost in a world of imagination, whimsy, and adventure. Once you have decided on the mood you want to create, you can begin with transforming the area into your personal urban oasis.
- Where Do You Begin
While there is nothing quite like having a relaxing and visually pleasing space, it is important to understand the area you have to work with, it’s most efficient layout, and its size before you start making plans to decorate.
If your apartment balcony space is as small as the one featured, it may be worth looking into some space-saving ideas. E.g. showcasing a vertical garden against one wall, custom ordering furniture to suit the space {a table that clips onto your railings or one that folds down from the wall}, or moving the seating area to occupy a corner. Work in symmetry so that the result is neat and orderly, and there is no clutter. It will make for a comfortable, elegant, and airy space.
- Your Selection
I have noticed that the most popular set-up for a small balcony is usually a functional and versatile table with two comfortable chairs. While there are plenty of options to choose from ~ from physical stores as well as online ~ I would suggest settling on visually lightweight pieces. Lucite or wrought iron, for example, works well for smaller balconies and will make the area look spacious. Add that to the use of the right multi-functioning furniture, and that homely feel will only be accentuated.
Pro tip: When I go shopping, I always carry pictures of the space I’m shopping for along with all necessary measurements, and then make purchases accordingly.
- Blend Your Outdoors with Your Indoors
Though this is very common, it is one of the cleverest ways to create an amazing illusion of space while also giving a sense of oneness to the area. The connection works if you use the same colour tones for both indoor and outdoor décor. Alternatively, a sliding glass door will give the same effect of seamlessly connecting the indoors with the outdoors.
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- A Dash of Colour Here, And a Tint There
Colours work in innumerable ways to make a space vibrant and radiate happiness. Throw in bold colours like reds, oranges, turquoise, and yellows, or opt for softer shades like blues, pinks, lavender, or tan in the form of a patterned rug, bolsters for your seats, or potted plants.
I would additionally prescribe playing with colours via lamps/candles, floor cushions, and other knick-knacks to help transform a boring balcony into a setting with a warm vibe that will evoke feelings of optimism and energy. And apart from an interesting colour palette, you could dress up the area in textures like greenery, wooden touches, and terracotta lamps to make it your favourite retreat!
- Light up the Area
Beautiful lighting will bring the entire area to life in the evenings, and the soft glow on your potted plants and furniture will add a touch of whimsy. I would say the effect of lighting is what will set the tone and mood of your outdoor space after dusk.
There are so many ways of using lights on your balcony depending on what you are looking for. You can choose from a variety of options; fairy lights, LED lanterns, Chinese lanterns, colourful or shaped light garlands, pendant lights, spotlights, and candles. While the right choice of lighting delivers aesthetic beauty and brightness, the use of too many bright lights can make the space look harsh. Be aesthetic and try to conceal the lights amid the plants, balcony railings and furniture, so that they create an intimate haven where you can relax.
- Work on the Detailing
Bright flowers like lilies, roses, or zinnias, or an herb garden, or seagrass matting, or seashells if you are so inclined, can make your space exclusive and the most-liked spot in the house. These are simple additions to a small space, but they make all the difference.
Additionally, music is a good go-to to muffle outside noise if your balcony faces the road. Or a tabletop water fountain can take your attention away from unruly neighbours. And if there are mosquitoes, I’d suggest using a diffuser with your favourite scent. The aroma will not only be relaxing but will keep mosquitoes at bay.
- On Being Practical
There’s no point crowding your balcony with a lot of wall ornaments, potted plants, lamps, and furniture just because you find them beautiful. Sometimes, being a minimalist will result in a better vibe. For instance, a low chest instead of a bench or chairs will work well as both seating and storage. Add an ottoman or two, for a charming and cosy balcony.
Also, if you want to make your space a bit more private so that you can enjoy your moments of solitude, you could consider installing a screen or outdoor curtains, or even using a green curtain made up of climbers like ivy or bamboo plants to create a visual divide between you and the outside world.
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To conclude: There is something very sensual about simplicity and if you are looking to have a tranquil haven to unwind after a hectic day, all you need is a cosy chair with that perfect side table to hold your wine glass. You can experiment with a monochrome theme if you are not so gung-ho about colours. The result is that you should feel happy and ready to bask in afterglow {hic!}.
My set up: There are ample ways of customising a space and giving it different themes. But if the beach is your scene, set up a corner of your balcony to be a tropical oasis. Add in a few low-maintenance palm planters, and be sure to serve yourself a rum punch. You’ll feel like you’re in the Caribbean, even if you haven’t gone anywhere!
I have used this balcony to create another cool set up here.
Do you have any balcony or patio decorating tips you’d like to share? Please drop me a note in the comment box below.
You have an amazing design sense, Tanya. Loving this balcony’s decor! ❤️ I have loved and experimented with interior decor as well. Whilst I don’t have the time to indulge as vigorously as I once did, it has definitely set a benchmark for all my creative passions.
I’m so glad you resonate with this, Pranathi. Thank you very much indeed!
Thank you for sharing, Tanya! Adore this post… continue curating such blogs brimming with aesthetic sense. Eagerly awaiting the next one. xx
So glad you stopped by and left such a warm comment, Riya.
Thank you for sharing these wonderful ideas, Tanya. There’s no better place than a balcony to bring the outside into your apartment! ✨ Also, these are beautiful photographs… and it’s always a pleasure to visit your blog-site!
Thank you for stopping by and sharing your kind thoughts, Archana.
This is precisely what I need to enjoy my morning coffee in my balcony! Thank you for the awesome decorating ideas presented here, to inspire me with my balcony decoration!
Small but cosy ~ tiny balconies give city dwellers like us a little sunshine. 🙂
The way you’ve designed your balcony is uniquely beautiful! As usual, I loved reading your post and studying your amazing photographs. Thank you for sharing. xx
My pleasure, Rama! Making the most out of a small balcony table…
These photos (and decor style) look spectacular ~ I am in awe of your many talents, Tanya! And now, it’s time to relax in your gorgeous balcony! ❤️
Yes, that’s my nook where I’m spending my lazy Sundays. 🙂
I love the way you’ve styled this space, Tanya. The decor items are so inventive and eye-catching. Your work has a grace to (and dedication about) it… ✨ Being introduced to design from a young age (thanks to my mum) taught me so much. It’s an experience which truly made me feel humbled, and understand the importance of perseverance and self-discipline.
Oh Meenakshi! What a beautiful and sensitive soul you are…
This is an inspiring space you’ve curated, Tanya! When it comes to your balcony, it really is important to remember that it should be your happy space. I personally don’t hesitate to include features that boost my happiness… 🙂
Morning espresso and this small balcony view. ❤️ Thank you for sharing, Kavitha.
I don’t see the need for powerful lighting in a small balcony, Tanya. In my opinion what it needs is a utilitarian solution.
Thanks for your genuine feedback, Purvi. I would say “to each their own” and that is what makes this world so diverse and beautiful.
Wonderful tips and tricks for a small balcony (that really impress)! And, a dash of colour certainly makes everything more cheerful! ❤️ Beautifully photographed, thanks for sharing.
Thanks Hariprasad! Any living space wouldn’t be complete without your favourite colour. Applied in the right way, colour can liven up any outdoor space. 🙂
Stunning pictures! When you designed this outdoor set, I can see how you wanted to create intimacy and the possibility of toes touching. 🙂
Thanks Tamé! Definitely my little balcony oasis. 🙂
This blog-post is very nicely done with gorgeous visuals of your balcony. ✨ Bearing in mind that most (apartment) balconies are about as large as a storage room, getting the most out of your space is imperative.
Agreed. This is definitely my favourite spot to relax… with greens, books and beverage!
Your work truly inspires, Tanya. Love the #islandvibe via your decor and aesthetic! ❤️ Although, I prescribe opting for contrasting coloured cushions that will go well with your environment…
Thank you for your wonderful thoughts, Jayant.
You are just so creative and inspiring! ✨✨✨ I’d like to share that a balcony (as small as it might be), is a space that connects your home to the outdoors. So, you can have a little garden or make it an intimate space with some cosy seating.
Urban balcony living 🙂
Wow Tanya, this is spectacular! I just adore your design and gorgeous decor aesthetic! ❤️ And on that note, don‘t forget to always take some “me-time” every day to slow things down a bit…
You’re such an incredibly thoughtful person, Arthi. Have a beautiful week!
You must share your secrets in capturing visuals like these… I’ve always admired how you’ve been able to take such editorial-type shots! ✨ Additionally, your writing style is so delicate and emotional… always a pleasure to read through!
Thank you so much for the kind words and for dropping by, Lalitha. It means so much to me!
Agreed. Outdoor spaces are an extension of the home and should be treated with the same level of care as the interior. ✨ And, if you don’t have an outdoor area, you can create a little oasis next to a window to give the feeling of being outdoors.
Absolutely right you are, Beena. With a little creativity, a small outdoor space can become magical!
Loooooove that space, and want to curl up in that chair wrapped in that throw! ❤️ I am so proud to say I have followed your creative journey for the past 4 years… your talent is so rare!
So glad to hear this little corner of my life was worth following, Muthupriya.
You are such an inspiration to me, Tanya… with your creativity and your view on the world. And this lovely post that you have curated, is so visually stimulating and beautifully written!
Means the world coming from you. Thank you so very much, Subashini!
Always loved your thoughts on the most generic topics because your thought process gives it meaning. ❤️ This is one of my favourite posts of yours thus far on decor. *The upside of the pandemic is that you get to spend much more time in your gorgeously decorated balcony!
Thank you for sharing such kind thoughts about my writing, Suma.
Yes, I get the bright morning sun here and cooler more breezy afternoons.
I love the space ~ looks so welcoming and peaceful… A cosy little spot to cuddle up with a book and watch the scenery! ✨ I’m a beginner blogger and I’m glad to say that you are my inspiration (and I’m OBSESSED with your work)!
It’s made our bedroom a nice little retreat. 🙂
Thanks so much sweet soul!
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this! For me personally, the post really spoke to me… My balcony has a hanging basket with canna lily plants, candles, a hanging lantern, a round rug… and now a foot pouf! Probably the most important addition. ❤️ It (foot pouf) packs away small when not being used and the cover is washable. Smart outdoor furniture for small spaces!
For us girls that need to rest, this is all vital. 😀
Tanya, I read your posts to get schooled and you never disappoint! ✨ Your artistically interpreted thoughts are the reason I’ve been following you years, and hopefully not jumping off this wagon soon. Keep inspiring.
It’s comments like yours that put a hop in my step and keep me going, Rima!