Small balcony? Turn it into a pleasant, outdoor relaxation area with these 16 great ideas
In recent times, the very rapid growth of urbanization has meant that many people are looking for a home in a city and the reduction in available space has led to a progressively smaller houses and apartments being built. Modern homes are very small and we have had to get creative with the use of available, open spaces such as gardens, terraces and balconies.
In fact, especially in city centers, having even a small balcony is a luxury that not everyone can take advantage of.
No matter the shape, balconies can be transformed into something truly beautiful - with some help from design experts: check out these 16 lovely design ideas...
1. Aperitif area
Don't give up on having an outdoor aperitif area, even if your balcony is very small. You can furnish it with two small benches covered with soft cushions and a tiny rectangular table.
2. Suspended table
If the space available is very limited and you don't want to clutter the area with furniture, putting up a suspended table on the railing can be very handy.
3. Breakfast outdoors
Don't miss out on having pleasant, outdoor breakfast because of a narrow balcony! A small round table and two stackable plastic chairs will be the perfect solution. Add design details such as a potted plant, a mirror (that will amplify the space) and a curtain to give you shade and privacy.
4. Small but welcoming
Even the smallest of balconies has enough space to accommodate shelves and a soft armchair. Choose an armchair model with a drawer, so you can store everything you need in it for your relaxation sessions.
5. A lush, colorful garden
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Create a lush garden on your small balcony with potted plants hanging from the railing, a ladder (serving as shelving) and a trellis for creepers. Finish off by using brightly colored fabrics on/for the furnishings.
6. Take inspiration from the style of the building
Be inspired by the style of your building and its location: in a modern skyscraper near the sea, for example, metal furnishings with an elegant and ultra-modern style decorated with nautically-styled cushions will be perfect.
7. Rocking chairs
A simple rocking chair will be perfect for relaxing outdoors on your small balcony: an ice-cold drink and shading in the summer; a hot drink, soft cushions and blankets in the winter - no matter the season, you can "rock your way" to tranquility.
8. Urban jungle
Who said that those who live in an apartments can't have a veggie patch or a garden? Create an "urban jungle" by stacking potted plants on multiple levels (as shown here).
9. Romantic relaxation area
Create a romantic relaxation area with a bench covered in soft cushions and blankets, a small round table, a row of lights and lots of candles.
10. Color scheme
If you love colorful surroundings, bring some to your small balcony: this will create continuity with your interior decor, augmenting the home's harmony.
11. A pet-friendly balcony
Your pets will also love basking in the sun or getting some fresh air with a boxed patch of grass on your balcony.
11. Sitting by the pool
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You will feel like you are sitting next to a pool with some synthetic grass carpeting and two small deckchairs placed on your balcony; add a few decorative items to complete the look.
13. Meals and relaxation
Don't sacrifice anything due to the small size of your balcony: you can treat yourself to romantic lunches and dinners for two, or just relaxing, if you purchase the right furnishings.
14. Boho-chic balcony
Green plants and decorations in neutral colors, a pallet with soft, white cushions on it and delicate curtains are the perfect decorations for a small, boho-chic balcony.
15. Colorful and vibrant
Transform your balcony into a triumph of lively color by filling it with potted plants, like the ones shown here.
16. Decorative flooring
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If you can't change the flooring (which you may not like), cover it with carpets or with modular wooden flooring.
