Having any kind of outside space – depending on where you live – is a luxury to some of us. Transforming your external space and using it as an extension of your living space is a great way to enjoy every aspect of your apartment. Think about what you are most using your balcony for or if you are not using it due to its lack of charm, what you would like to use it for. Here are 12 great examples of how to elevate your small balcony with some decor tips and design ideas. Get inspired by a variety of styles, from more minimalist to super cozy. And don’t get a lack of space stop you investing some time in transforming your outside space into something wonderful.
Mirror mirror on the wall….
Simply put – a mirror always creates an illusion of additional space so a great way for a small balcony to “grow”. Additionally, surrounded by plants and other outdoor decoration, it really is an eye catcher. In addition with patina they give you a real boho vibe. A great example for a small balcony design idea is this true statement Black Multi Panel Arched Window Wing Mirror.
Fairy lights on small balconies
Fairy lights are a very economic way of decorating your balcony and they do not only look nice during the Christmas period. They give an outdoor space immediately a more romantic vibe. Just make sure they are outdoor compatible, i.e. water-, snow-, sun- and windproof. Go either for the classic fairy lights or more bulb-like fairy lights. Should you chose solar powered fairy lights, make sure you actually live in a place with sufficient sunlight.
Light up your space
Not just fairy lights are a great way to brighten up your balcony, other lights are too. This is a great example of how to incorporate outdoor lighting. The combination with great and well-thought of greenery (look at those narrow hanging flower pots) has really transformed an unseeingly balcony to a cozy space. I found these great outdoor lights which are very accessible and make a great impact.
Small balcony flower power
Plants and flowers are -in my very humble opinion- a no brainer for a balcony. Plants and flowers are live. They look pretty, they smell nice (yes, they also require some maintenance but some less than others) and can really transform any outdoor space to an oasis. If your space is very little, think about hanging flower pots (from the railing, the walls and ceiling), put them in pots on the floor and on any table you may have. rest be assured, you will never regret having some lush greenery surrounding you. Look at those gorgeous macrame plant hangers or if you prefer a more modern style, look at those hanging metal plant pots or these wall flower pots to upgrade your small balcony easily.
Rug it baby
Outdoor rugs are one of my favourite decor ideas for small (and big) balconies. They are not expensive, they are durable, low maintenance (some can even be washed), elevate any outdoor space and you can change the style of your balcony immediately. And should you not love the flooring, you can just cover it up without major works. I recently got a jute look rug for my outdoor space. The flat-woven pile made of polypropylene is particularly easy to clean. I also love this boho style outdoor rug. Just add some outdoor cushions and a blanket (plus some lights and plants) to complete the look you are going for.
Multi-use small balcony design idea
If you are short on space but want to use your small balcony for multiple uses, get some foldable, easy to tuck away furniture – foldable chairs and a foldable table. They are usually lightweight so easy to handle and do not take up much space. I found a wooden 3 piece foldable balcony furniture set and an equally beautiful 3 piece bistro set in metal in a variety of colours. Another option are cleverly designed railing attached foldable tables. Custom installed furniture is also a great option to make use of every square meter or inch on your balcony,
Add a fun swing to your small balcony
If this does not evoke some holiday fever, I don’t know what is. A swing is perfect to chill out, read, let your thoughts run free and just enjoy your outdoor space to its fullest. Simply add some decor – pillows, a throw, floor lighting, a rug, maybe even some gorgeous candles in lanterns and some greenery – and you’ll never want to leave again. Get a 2 people hanging chair to share this beautiful space of yours with someone.
Outdoor library
Admittedly a little unconventionally -which I personally love- but what a fabulous idea is this. An outdoor library. For all the bookworms out there who love to read on their balcony on a warm summer’s night – or wrapped up when it’s a bit chillier. I would suggest to add a door -transparent would be a winner- keeping in mind the longevity to the books itself and protect them from any weather influences.
Install a bar on your small balcony
Are you a social butterfly or just enjoying an al fresco drink? Use your balcony exactly for that and install a bar. The bar itself can be wall mounted, tucking the bar chairs below, a real space saver and a great design inspiration for a small balcony. And the bottles and glass storage can also be wall mounted. For the additional wow-effect, get a mini fridge too.
BBQ fans
There are either people who love to grill and there are the ones who don’t. Should you belong to the first mentioned species, do yourself a favour and get yourself -even a mini- BBQ. Options are plentiful. Table-based BBQs like the Ninja Woodfire Electric Grill is a fine example of a table based electric grill that can be added to almost all balconies.
1001 nights vibe on your balcony
Look at this oriental style balcony. Full of beautiful little details, this could also be your small balcony design inspiration. They covered everything – plants, decor, accessories, rug and so forth. A great start to transform our space is a Oriental Moroccan Storm Lantern like the linked one, for example.
Japandi style balcony
Are clean minimalist lines more your style? If so, have a look at this (rendered) Japandi style small balcony. Light wood, stone and plants would easily blend into the interior of a like-designed apartment. It mediates harmony and piece.
Make sure you also check out my blog post about Rooftop terrace design ideas.
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