Creating an inviting balcony space
Silver and gold round side table is from IKEA
Rug from Affordable Style Files
Teal china side table/stool from Metro
Chairs and bench from Woody’s at Dempsey
Living in Singapore gives us more sunshine and warm temperatures than most other countries. This means we use our balconies and patios all year round.
When we move condos, one of our first priorities is having useable outdoor space, which for us is an extension of our indoor space. A space where we can share a meal and entertain friends, a comfortable and inviting space where we want to hang out.
Some things to consider when planning your balcony
Seating and eating area
Privacy
Flooring
Storage
Lighting
Plants
Soft furnishings
Sun – how hot will it get in the daytime
Chairs and bench from Woody’s at Dempsey
Silver and gold round side table is from IKEA
Extend your outdoor space with a colourful weatherproof rug to co-ordinate with your colour interior theme. Mine is from Affordable Style Files (https://affordablestylefiles.com) they have many colours and sizes to suit all needs and budgets. Add some complimentary cushions to bring your look together.
My balcony is fully covered but if yours is open to the elements there are some great storage options around. I have a large weatherproofed storage box which is hidden nicely behind the bench. This hides all the bulky items that we only use on occasion and can also be used to pop the cushions in, which we did in our previous place.
Outdoor furniture needs to be able to withstand the changing elements of the weather, and needs to be comfortable enough to sit for longer periods of time. If you are not comfortable you are less likely to use it.
Consider using a combination of plant pots with tall, bushy plants to add some privacy. A trellis or foldable screen can also provide privacy if desired.
Image from Google.sg.com
By adding lots of lamps, candles and string lights you can set the mood for a nice romantic feel.
You will need to have some kind of fan if you are in Singapore. This could be a ceiling fan if you already have a light fixture there or one or two stand alone fans.
You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your balcony inviting and comfortable. Check out my Pinterest page (https://au.pinterest.com/sortedforlife) for some inspiration.
Whether you choose to go neutral or funky, make your balcony a place that you love to be in. Even the smallest of balconies can be filled with colour and texture - so get creative!
Tips
Use colourful cushions to add colour, texture and comfort.
Use wooden boxes or crates to use as planters or side tables
Stools can be doubled up as side tables or for extra seating when needed
Don’t have a lot of floor space? Hang pots on railings or use a decorative ladder for hanging candles and potted plants
Floor cushions or beanbags could also be a comfortable seating option according to your look and style
An outdoor rug can disguise ugly flooring
Add some fun lighting using candles, lanterns and string lights
Add a table to eat at, if space permits, and enjoy sharing a meal with friends or just a quiet breakfast by yourself
If you would like some help to decorate your balcony, please get in touch by emailing sortedspacesg@gmail.com
