I’ll be honest: I slept on my outdoor balcony for years. My husband and I have always lived in apartments that included an outdoor space, and we just didn’t invest any time or energy into making the balcony actually usable. It wasn’t until I took an interior design class recently that I realized the benefit of adding some balcony decor even if you don’t use your outdoor space a ton. Most of the time, you can see your outdoor space from inside your home, so it’s basically an extension of the interior room. I soon realized I had been staring at empty outdoor space from our living room and bedroom for a very long time.
When you think about it, your balcony counts as additional square footage of your home, so why not make the most of it? Getting your daily dose of vitamin D is important for your health, and your apartment balcony can be the perfect spot for summer reading, at-home happy hours, and chatting with friends when you don’t feel like going out. After slowly but surely adding furniture and decor to my balcony, I can absolutely say that it’s worth the effort to make your balcony your own little outdoor oasis, especially over the summer. Here’s everything you need to turn your run-of-the-mill apartment balcony into your dream outdoor space.
1. Add an outdoor rug.
First things first, adding an outdoor rug will start your transformation from a bare, empty space to an outdoor living area. Rugs are great for adding texture, color, and pattern to an otherwise neutral surface and can make your outdoor space feel just as homey as your indoor living spaces. And since most apartment balcony floors are either concrete or wood, rugs will also protect your feet from splinters and rough surfaces. In short: they’re a game changer.
Source: @ohsorented
2. Create a cozy vibe with string lights.
String lights are a balcony decor must, especially if you want to enjoy your outdoor space after the sun has gone down. They’re a much better option than your standard outdoor light (which is usually a singular, super-bright light). Plus, string lights create a cozy atmosphere that can be enjoyed not only outside, but inside as well. If you can see the railing of your balcony from your living room, for example, you’ll be able to enjoy the glow of the lights indoors, too. Make it easy on yourself by snagging solar-powered lights—that way you don’t have to worry about turning them off and on.
3. Add comfy seating.
Hangs on the balcony mean you need seating, of course! A three-piece patio set is perfect for a smaller balcony. These usually include two chairs and a small table—just enough space for setting down a cold drink, a plate of snacks, or a small speaker. You could also invest in a loveseat if your space is large enough, or even an outdoor egg chair for ultimate lounging. Comfy outdoor seating is also a great opportunity to switch up your usual morning routine. Meditating outdoors or sipping your coffee while soaking in some morning sun before it gets too hot is a vibe, for sure.
4. Include pops of color with outdoor pillows.
Furniture isn’t complete without a few throw pillows, and that includes outdoor furniture as well. Accessories like pillows and throws can add a bit of color and texture to an otherwise neutral set-up. Plus, it makes your seating extra cozy! Just be sure to opt for outdoor pillows specifically, since they are made to withstand the elements more so than indoor pillows.
5. Use plants as decor.
An outdoor space wouldn’t be complete without plants! Just like they do indoors, plants can breathe life into your balcony set-up, whether they’re real or faux. If you already have indoor plants, check to see if any of them could move outdoors for the summer season. Desert plants like succulents and cacti, as well as tropical varieties like croton and hoya plants, can thrive in the summer sun and humidity. Just be sure to acclimate them slowly over time (AKA don’t put them in full sun right away). You could also consider growing herbs or a tomato or strawberry plant for your own summer produce.
6. Keep mosquitoes away with bug repellents.
Let’s face it: As mosquitos rear their annoying little heads over the summer, hanging outside can be a drag if you’re a prime target for their bites. There are a few ways to prevent mosquitoes from crashing your balcony space, including keeping citronella candles and bug spray nearby. An oscillating fan is also a great non-toxic way to prevent mosquitoes from landing on your skin (and help keep you cool, too)—just be sure the airflow is strong!
