If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony, make the most of it with these essential features. From comfortable seating to balcony tiles to storage solutions, here are ten must-haves for your dream balcony.
1. Comfortable Seating
No matter what size your balcony is, comfortable seating is a must. Whether you choose a simple chaise lounge or a multi-piece furniture set, make sure you have enough seating for yourself and any guests.
For added comfort, consider adding cushions and throw blankets to your furniture. Cushions not only add comfort, but they can also be a great way to add colour and pattern to your space.
Throw blankets are another great way to add warmth and coziness to your balcony. If you live in a cooler climate, make sure to choose a blanket that is thick enough to provide insulation on colder days.
2. A Dining Area
If you enjoy entertaining or simply like to enjoy your meals outdoors, create a dedicated dining area on your balcony. A small table and chairs are all you need to turn your space into a cozy spot for enjoying meals al fresco.
For added convenience, look for furniture with built-in storage, such as a table with an umbrella hole and chairs with built-in ottomans.
3. Storage Solutions
Don’t let limited space stop you from taking full advantage of your balcony. Maximize your square footage with smart storage solutions, such as baskets, bins, and shelves.
Built-in storage solutions are also available that can be customized to fit your specific needs. By getting creative with storage, you can easily find a place for everything on your balcony.
4. Greenery
One way to add both visual interest and a touch of life to your space is to pot some plants and flowers. This doesn’t require much effort or a green thumb – simply visit your local nursery or garden centre and choose some pre-potted plants that fit your style.
If you’re worried about maintenance, there are also many varieties of artificial plants that look realistic and require little care. Adding some greenery to your balcony is a simple way to create a more inviting space that you’ll want to spend time in.
5. Privacy Screens
If you live in an urban area or close quarters to your neighbours, privacy screens can help give you the secluded outdoor oasis you desire. Look for panels that can be hung from your railing or placed on the floor of your balcony if permitted by your HOA/building management office rules and regulations.
Bamboo is a great material choice for privacy screens as it is both durable and stylish.
6. Flooring
One of the most important aspects of any balcony is the flooring. Not only does it need to be durable enough to withstand the elements, but it also needs to be safe and attractive. There are many different options available for balcony flooring, so it’s important to choose one that will best suit your needs.
Balcony tiles are a popular choice for balcony flooring because they are slip-resistant and easy to clean. Wood decking is another option that can give your balcony a warm and natural look. If you’re looking for something more unique, try using outdoor carpet or artificial turf.
7. Mood Lighting
String lights are one of the simplest ways to transform the ambiance of any outdoor space, including balconies. Choose from a variety of bulb types (e.g., LED, incandescent), sizes, shapes, and colours to create the perfect lighting scheme for your space.
To avoid creating too much clutter, look for string lights that come equipped with built-in solar panels so you can avoid having extension cords running across your balcony.
8. Waterproof Furniture Covers
Be prepared for bad weather by keeping waterproof furniture covers on hand at all times. This will help protect your furniture from sun damage, rain, snow, and sleet so you can enjoy it for years to come.
9. Insect Repellent
No one wants bugs crashing their party, so always keep insect repellent on hand when spending time on your balcony. Citronella candles are also a great way to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay while you’re enjoying time outdoors.
10. Portable Speakers
Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to relax outdoors, portable speakers are a must-have accessory for any dream balcony. Look for wireless options that can be easily connected to your phone or other portable devices so you can control the playlist no matter where you are.
You may want to increase the ambiance of any outdoor gathering by choosing portable speakers that double as mood lighting. There are endless possibilities when it comes to outfitting your dream balcony.
The key is to select items that fit both your lifestyle and budget so you can enjoy spending time in your outdoor oasis for years to come.