What with summer in full flow (we’re told), now’s the time to come out of hibernation (read: basement bars) and spend more time outside instead. While we love to join in with the throngs of barbeque-ers, picnic-ers and pub garden revellers across the city’s parks, sometimes a quiet, private, sunny spot is all we crave. The only snag being that not many of us city dwellers actually have an outdoor space to call our own. We’re lucky if we have so much as a windowsill, let alone an actual garden. So if you are one of the lucky ones with a balcony, and you’re not making the most of every square millimetre of it, you’re missing a trick. Whether your dream outdoor space is all about socialising, relaxation or even growing stuff, these eight tiny balconies are packed with inspiration. Let’s go outside.
Ok, so this balcony isn’t tiny – and it’s more of a veranda if you’re being technical – but there’s still plenty of inspiration to be gleaned from such a pristine example of an outdoor space turned habitable living area. White-washed walls set the scene for some statement lounge chairs, and a natural floor covering completes the transformation from an occasionally used outside area to a veritable indoor/outdoor room. Oh, and there’s some plants. Just don’t forget to bring cushions and rugs back in with you before it rains.
Courtesy of My Domaine
If you live in one of those flats or apartments that have what’s known as a ‘sun room’ – not quite a balcony, not quite a room – you’ll know it’s easy for this area to become a dumping ground for stuff you’re not quite sure where to put. It may be a cupboard with a view, but it can still be harnessed as a zone for gardening and relaxation. A hammock and a few plants is all it takes to make you feel like you’re somewhere far away – and a sunny day, obvs.
Courtesy of Historia De Casa
Balcony not got a view to speak of? That’s ok. Make the most of what you’ve got and create your own view with an abundance of greenery, some wall decoration (anything from bird boxes to wall hangings), and add a splash of colour with an outdoor rug and some cushions. You’ll soon forget you’re sandwiched between your neighbour’s wall and the back of the offy. Promise.
Courtesy of Karwei
Making a beautiful balcony doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive, as this simple space goes to show. Railings and plant stands can be utilised for hanging greenery to turn the area into a verdant oasis, while saving precious floor inches so there’s more space for seating and furniture. Breakfast al fresco anyone?
Courtesy of Ikea
Small but perfectly formed couldn’t be a more apt description of this bijoux balcony. Nothing more than floor cushions and some hanging boxes, it’s just enough to provide a little solace from city living – and to catch a few rays... if you’re lucky.
Courtesy of My Paradisi
Let’s be realistic. Not everyone is blessed with a bona fide balcony. If your outside space is more akin to a fire exit, well then, you’re luckier than most. Even these tricky areas can be given a makeover and turned into something vaguely approaching a garden. Fairy lights, hanging planters and using square crates (to make use of every corner) can magic a few steps into a mini stoop in no time. As long as you don’t block the actual fire exits, that is.
Courtesy of Free People
Green fingered folks, you needn’t relinquish your dream of growing your own organic bean sprouts just yet – a small strip of balcony can accommodate all manner of growing apparatus if you’re so inclined. A vitrine or cold frame is essentially a mini greenhouse, so the local pests (and pollution) will be kept at bay.
Courtesy of Skonahem
If you’re still not sure you can keep a living organism alive for longer than a week, don’t panic, plants don’t have to be the focus of your balcony space. Dramatic statement furniture and a moody wall colour turn this tiny space into something straight out of a design hotel, with just a token flash of green (you can even go faux with your plants too). Now at least there’s plenty of room for the barbecue and wine cooler.
Courtesy of Arch DailyLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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