As someone who knows about apartment interior design, you understand the importance of creating cohesive spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The same principles apply to balcony design.
Balcony design trends:
When it comes to balcony ideas, it is important to consider the overall theme or style you want to achieve. Just like with interior design, you want to ensure that your balcony design complements the rest of your outdoor living space.
One popular trend in balcony design is creating an outdoor oasis. It involves incorporating natural elements like plants and greenery. Also, you will want to consider including comfortable seating and lighting fixtures. Actually, you can use your knowledge of colour theory and furniture arrangement to create a cohesive and inviting space.
Functional elements in a balcony:
Another popular trend is incorporating functional elements into your balcony design. For example, if you enjoy cooking or entertaining, you may want to include a small grill or bar area. On the other hand, if you are an enthusiastic gardener, you may want to create a small herb or vegetable garden.
Finally, don’t forget about the importance of lighting in balcony design. Just like with interior design, lighting can make a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. In fact, you can use your knowledge of lighting fixtures and placement to create a warm and inviting ambience on your balcony.
Recommendations for the best design for a balcony:
Overall, the key to successful balcony design is to approach it with the same level of thoughtfulness and consideration as you would with any other interior design project. By incorporating your knowledge of colour theory, furniture arrangement, and lighting, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that enhances your apartment living experience.
If you don’t know where to start, you can use the tips above as a guide to help get you started. When all else fails, remember that it is better to be safe than sorry and hire a professional designer or contractor to help with your balcony design project.
Moreover, if you want to know the fundamentals of interior design that can apply to your outdoor balcony space, then read on! The fundamentals are all listed below!
Balcony design fundamentals:
Exterior design is an essential aspect of home improvement. It can enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of outdoor spaces such as balconies and small gardens.
Here are some of the key differences between designing for a balcony vs. a small garden space:
Balcony setup:
When designing a balcony, the focus is on creating a functional and comfortable outdoor living space. As you may know, balconies are typically smaller than garden spaces, so space optimization is critical.
Here are some design tips for balconies:
- Choose furniture that is appropriately sized and scaled for the space. Consider using foldable or stackable fixtures to maximize space.
- Consider using plants and flowers to add colour and texture to the area. Hanging plants or wall-mounted planters can be a great way to add greenery without taking up valuable floor space.
- Add lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. In fact, string lights or festoon solar lights are a great addition, and table lamps for additional lighting.
Small garden space design:
Designing a small garden space requires a different approach. The focus is on creating a green and lush outdoor oasis that feels like an extension of the home. Here are some design tips for small garden spaces:
- Consider using vertical space to create a green wall or trellis. This can add a lot of greenery to a small space without taking up valuable floor space.
- Use plants and flowers to create a sense of depth and dimension. Layer plants of different heights and textures to create a lush and inviting outdoor space.
- Consider adding a focal point, such as a water feature or sculpture, to draw the eye and create visual interest.
Living higher and utilizing height:
Living higher up in a building can bring both pros and cons when it comes to exterior design. On the one hand, living higher up can offer stunning views and a sense of serenity above the hustle and bustle of the city. On the other hand, the wind and exposure to the elements can make it challenging to create a functional and comfortable outdoor living space.
To make the most of living higher up, consider using home improvement products to your advantage. Here are some ideas:
- Consider using windbreaks or privacy screens to create a more comfortable outdoor living space. These can be made from materials like bamboo, fabric, or glass. Outdoor blinds are a highly versatile product that is also growing massively in popularity across Australia right now. With the choice between Mesh or PVC a key factor to consider
- Use balcony planters to create a green wall or vertical garden. These can be a great way to add greenery and privacy to a balcony space.
- Consider using durable materials like metal or concrete for furniture and accessories. These materials can withstand exposure to the elements and offer a modern and industrial look. Furniture that offers high substantial protection from the elements is highly advantageous. You can opt to use good coverings or use some kind of window covering such as outdoor roller blinds to protect the area from rain and hail.
In summary, exterior design for a balcony vs. a small garden space requires a different approach. Balconies require space optimization, while small garden spaces require creating a lush and inviting outdoor oasis.
Living higher up can bring both pros and cons when it comes to exterior design, but utilizing home improvement products can help you make the most of your outdoor space.
Small Balcony Ideas
Relaxation Corner: Set up a cosy corner with comfortable seating like a hammock, bean bags, or lounge chairs, where you can relax and enjoy a good book or take a nap under the shade of a large umbrella.
Herb and Vegetable Garden: Create a small herb and vegetable garden using planters and vertical gardening techniques. This will not only provide you with fresh ingredients for your summer meals but also add a touch of greenery to your balcony.
Herb and Vegetable Garden: Create a small herb and vegetable garden using planters and vertical gardening techniques. This will not only provide you with fresh ingredients for your summer meals but also add a touch of greenery to your balcony.
Outdoor Dining Area: Arrange a small dining table and chairs for enjoying meals and drinks al fresco. Add some string lights and colourful tableware to create a festive atmosphere.
Mini Zen Oasis: Transform a portion of your balcony into a peaceful Zen oasis with a small water feature, some potted bamboo or bonsai, and a comfortable floor cushion or meditation mat for practicing mindfulness and relaxation.
Kids’ Play Zone: Designate a section of the balcony for your kids to play and explore. Set up a small inflatable pool, a sandbox, or an outdoor chalkboard for them to enjoy on a hot summer day.
Outdoor Cinema: Set up a portable projector and screen, or simply hang a white sheet, to create an outdoor cinema experience. Add some comfy seating, blankets, and pillows for a cosy movie night under the stars.
Art and Craft Corner: Dedicate a space for your creative pursuits, such as painting, drawing, or pottery. Set up an easel, a small table, and storage for your art supplies, and enjoy the natural light and fresh air while you create.
Fitness and Yoga Area: Roll out a yoga mat or set up some small exercise equipment, like dumbbells and resistance bands, to create a dedicated workout space. Enjoy your fitness routine with a view and a refreshing breeze.
Bird-watching Station: Install a bird feeder or birdhouse to attract local birds to your balcony. Set up a comfortable chair and a pair of binoculars for bird-watching and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
Outdoor Library: Create a small outdoor library with a weather-resistant bookshelf and a comfortable reading nook. Add a few potted plants and a small side table for your drink, and you have the perfect spot for reading and unwinding.
DIY Barbecue Station: Set up a small, portable grill on your balcony for impromptu barbecues and cookouts. Add a small prep table and storage for your grilling tools and condiments to complete your outdoor cooking area.
Stargazing Spot: Place a telescope or a pair of binoculars on your balcony, along with a comfortable chair or cushion, to create a stargazing spot. Enjoy observing the night sky and learning about constellations on clear summer nights.
Pet-friendly Zone: Design a section of your balcony for your furry friends, with a small pet bed, toys, and a water bowl. You could also add a patch of artificial grass for them to lounge on or even a cat tree for feline friends.
Outdoor Workspace: Set up a small outdoor desk and chair, or use a lap desk, to create a refreshing workspace. Enjoy the fresh air and natural light while working or studying from home on a hot summer day.
Vertical Garden Wall: Install a vertical garden wall with a variety of plants, flowers, and succulents. This living wall will not only add greenery to your balcony but also serve as a natural privacy screen and air purifier.
Mini Greenhouse: Create a small greenhouse on your balcony using a compact, portable greenhouse kit or by constructing a DIY version. Grow your favourite plants, flowers, and vegetables year-round, protected from the elements.
Outdoor Music Lounge: Set up a small sound system or portable speaker on your balcony, along with comfortable seating, to create an outdoor music lounge. Enjoy your favourite tunes while soaking up the sun or hosting friends for a casual get-together.
Outdoor Gallery: Decorate your balcony walls with weather-resistant artwork, such as metal sculptures, mosaic tiles, or painted murals. Transform your outdoor space into an inspiring gallery that reflects your personal style and interests.
Pergola or Gazebo: Install a small pergola or gazebo on your balcony to provide shade and a sense of privacy. Decorate it with climbing plants, fairy lights, and comfortable seating to create a cosy retreat.
Outdoor Games Area: Set up an area for outdoor games, like a mini ping-pong table, a dartboard, or a cornhole set. Enjoy friendly competitions with family and friends while taking advantage of the warm summer weather.