Editor’s Note: This is a guest post written by Michelle Croissant, for www.allenrothhome.com
Are you moving into an apartment with a modestly sized balcony? Looking for ways to make the most of your space and ensure it is both functional and well designed? In this article, we’re looking for some of the best ways you can decorate and furnish a balcony in a rental apartment, for those lucky enough to have this extra outdoor space.
Moving is expensive enough as it is, and in a rental property you probably don’t want to spend an absolute fortune getting the place up-to-scratch, knowing you may not be there for the longest period of time. Fortunately, there are ways to spruce up your balcony without spending a huge amount, as we’ve explained below.
1. Get Your Lighting Right
Lighting is far too often an afterthought when it comes to our balconies. People don’t plan ahead for those temperate nights when you finally get the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air.
The right lighting can be the difference between a balcony feeling cosy and comfortable or cramped and clinical.
Why not combine some candles (you can’t get much more inexpensive than that) with Roth string lights for a mellow evening setting, perfect for unwinding on the balcony?
2. Freecycle Unwanted Items
If you’re willing to do the leg-work and go and collect items people no longer need, you would be amazed at what you can get for free. Facebook and Craigslist groups are great resources when it comes to furnishing on a budget because you can get free stuff! In addition, freecycling websites are great for finding these items and most people are just glad to get rid of them.
For balconies, a slightly jumbled ‘shabby-chic’ look can really work wonders, so you don’t have to worry too much about items fitting a certain type of decor. Even mismatched chairs can look good given a little TLC. You can always think about upcycling the furniture you get your hands on, too, if you’re so inclined.
3. Add Some Greenery
Creating a natural feel as well as adding some features in the form of plants and other greenery is a great way to make your balcony feel bigger and more welcoming. There is something about a little greenery that just seems to make a balcony more eye-pleasing and relaxing.
It is up to you how far you want to take this idea, but even a few planters or hanging baskets can provide a feature on your balcony. If you’re short on space, you can even fill your balcony railings with planters.
4. Furniture With Dual Uses
There are numerous tips in this guide to making the most out of a small patio which resonate with balconies too. One of the pieces of advice which is helpful, especially if you have a smaller balcony, is to use furniture that can have dual uses. For example, an ottoman can double up as a balcony seat as well as being a space for storage.
There are many people getting even more creative with this, upcycling pallets and wooden barrels to create sitting spaces or tables. If you enjoy a project such as these, your balcony can be a blank canvas for you to work with.
5. Add A Canopy or Privacy Screen
Privacy screens and even canopies do not have to cost a fortune, and there are many DIY ways to add these to your balcony.
A privacy screen is great for balconies in urban areas, and having a canopy or similar sunshade can be a great way to protect yourself from those daytime rays, ensuring you don’t get burned.
This amazing “copper cabana” is an example of a very creative design, which could easily be replicated on a balcony for an extra bit of privacy and sun protection.
Conclusion
There are several ways to make the most out of your balcony, even if you are renting, and not breaking the bank in the process. By perfecting the lightning, decorating the balcony with plants and greenery or freecycling items to decorate your balcony will go a long way to keep you happy with your balcony. Even if you’re only there for a year lease, you will benefit from relaxing in a beautiful balcony.
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