Is there anything more romantic than a well-designed balcony? It brings to mind that iconic scene from Romeo and Juliet (even though Shakespeare didn’t necessarily specify it took place in a balcony), and it’s a wonderful place to watch the stars. All this and more are reasons why a neglected balcony looks incredibly tragic—it’s such a waste of a good space.
If you buy your dream home and it has a balcony that no one uses, now is the time to design it and give it the tender loving care it deserves. You owe it to yourself—and to your family members and guests—to make it one of the best, most comfortable spaces in the house. Here are some pointers for designing a pretty and functional balcony.
Incorporate a small table
If your space allows it, consider adding a small table in the area. Let your balcony be the place where you have your morning coffee as you scroll through Twitter for your daily news. There is always an option, no matter how small your balcony is. You can opt for a foldable yet stylish one so that you have the option to add and remove it as you please. Make it the focal point of the space so that you have one part that determines how the rest of the space is designed.
Consider built-in seating
If you want to maximize every square foot in that space, consider having built-in seating installed. Not only can you ensure that the seats are truly pushed up against the wall, but you can also have additional storage below. Just make sure it goes well with the railing of your balcony.
Add greenery
Here’s the thing: Nature is beautiful. There’s a reason why people climb mountains or go on hikes (aside from the exercise)—there is something incredibly relaxing and serene about being surrounded by greenery. To instantly beautify your space, consider adding some potted plants or hang some vertical plants on the walls. It might make you feel like you’re having breakfast in Paris.
Make it warm and comfortable
Instead of opting for the expected chairs and a table, why not go for something a bit more offbeat, like a big pillow or a hammock? It can be an addition to the space if you already have seating and a coffee table. Add warmth and comfort to your space by incorporating cozy textures and layers like an area rug, blankets, throws, and pillows.
Add some fancy lighting
If there are no privacy issues, consider adding some more lights to your balcony to add a touch of whimsy to your space. Instead of using regular fluorescent lights, why not opt for some warm-toned fairy lights? Installing some lights, even pendants or sconces, can instantly make your balcony the perfect space for late-night hangouts with your loved ones.
Consider using glass doors
There’s nothing like a good glass door to make a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. If the building’s rules allow it, or if you own the property, consider converting the door that separates the two areas into one that’s made of glass. If you want to accentuate your home’s adjacent outdoor living areas, the architectural bones you use are of utmost importance—and glass is the material that can help you achieve that goal.
Copy your interiors
Speaking of ensuring that your indoor and outdoor areas have a smooth transition, you want to ensure that the bedroom or formal sitting room that opens onto your balcony influences the style of the pieces and elements you’re adding to your outdoor space. It can be incredibly jarring if there is a stark contrast between the two styles of the spaces—you want to feel like they’re still part of the same house.
Mind the views
If you’re blessed enough to live in an area with breathtaking views of the mountains or a body of water, make it the focal point of the balcony by giving the space some room to breathe. Ensure the views are unobstructed, opt for minimal decor, and drape the space with plenty of greenery to maximize the natural atmosphere.
A balcony can be so many things—it can be a space to relax, work, spend time with loved ones, and escape from the stresses of life. Give yourself a special oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and design your balcony so that you have somewhere to go when you’re overwhelmed. You and your family deserve it.
Meta title: Design Ideas for a Gorgeous and Functional Balcony
meta desc: If your home has a balcony that no one uses, now is the time to design it. Here are some useful pointers for designing a pretty and functional balcony.
