Friday, September 20, 2019

For condo and apartment dwellers, one of the most important areas of home decor happens once you step outside...to the balcony!

Not only can a balcony be an important selling feature when it comes time to list your property, it’s a great extension of your living space, offering urban dwellers access to the outdoors, natural light and fresh air. Here are some great suggestions to step up the style factor of your balcony, no matter how tiny it may be.

- Always have a table and chairs. Don’t think that your balcony is too small for seating. A small, foldable cafe table and two chairs is just enough for morning coffee or a casual meal al fresco, even on the most diminutive balcony.

- Consider built-in bench seating. A clever, L-shaped banquette or bench on your balcony will allow you to add seating and maximize space. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about high winds blowing your furniture away.

- Add plants and herbs. Fill your balcony with an assortment of potted plants, flowering shrubs and herbs to create the feel of a backyard, nurture your green thumb, and add a secluded feel. 

- Choose an outdoor rug. Add color, warmth and style with the addition of an outdoor rug. The rug can play off of your indoor decor scheme to add continuity and help expand your interior space.

- Hang or mount a light. The right lighting will add ambience and allow you to utilize your balcony far into the evening hours. Consider wall sconces or stylish hanging pendant lamps. For a more casual, fun look, string lights will do the trick.

- Go for comfort. Just because your balcony is small, doesn’t mean it can’t be an exceedingly comfortable nook. Consider floor pillows, a hanging chair, even a hammock. Have a warm throw at the ready for stargazing or watching the sunrise.

- Add privacy. If your balcony abuts your neighbor’s place, then a little privacy may be in order. Consider installing a rolling shade made from a weather-proof material or plant a short evergreen border, such as bamboo, boxwood or pine.

By putting these ideas into action, not only will your balcony look magazine-ready, you’ll actually use it more and enjoy more time outside in this special, personalized oasis you’ve created.

Source: Architectural Digest

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