Plan, decorate and ‘grow’ a balcony space you’ll love to linger in…
Assess your space
First off, have a structural engineer check how much weight your balcony can support. The weakest point of any balcony is usually the middle, so you’ll need to keep the heaviest items closer to the perimeter. Next, consider the weather conditions – every balcony is a mix of different microclimates. For instance, the left corner might be in shade, the right one windy and the centre exposed to direct sunlight for most of the day. It can be quite a dilemma. Also, how big is the space? And how much time, energy and money do you want to spend on it? All these factors will influence the types of plants that will thrive there, as well as your furniture choices.
Have a planting plan
Start with a few plants that require minimal upkeep and grow it – excuse the pun – from there. A good rule of thumb is to have a base of small evergreen shrubs and then add seasonal variety and colour through a mix of bulbs and seeds.
Edible gardens work well on balconies, so think fresh herbs and maybe some veggies. Remember that potted plants dry out much faster than normal garden beds, so frequent watering is a must. Or opt for hardier succulents that require less maintenance. Take drainage into account – invest in drip trays under pots to catch any run-off onto the balcony floor. Topping the soil with pebbles, mulch and wood chips, etc will not only add a neat finishing touch to your containers but will also prevent water from evaporating too quickly.
Create ‘windbreaks’ to protect more tender plants by planting larger plants in front of them. Varying planting heights will open the space for furniture and other accessories, so think vertical. Hang planters on stands or make use of wall-mounted planters to create a ‘living wall’. A freestanding fountain or bubbling water feature will add a touch of tranquillity.
Get comfortable
How do you want to use your balcony space? Do you want somewhere quiet and secluded to read a book and enjoy your morning coffee? Or do you want use the space to entertain? A little bistro table with two chairs is perfect for a solitary cuppa and a crossword, while a four-seater dining table is more suited to company. Either way, you’ll need to opt for all-weather furnishings and accessories.
Great seating ideas include a hanging chair (perfect for one) or a suspended swing (perfect for two), a comfy daybed, deep-seat couch or cushioned bench with built-in storage. Think bold, washable cushions in vibrant colours and prints, a freestanding umbrella for when you need cover from the sun, stackable stools and folding tables (for visitors) and lights, of course. You can really have fun here as the options are endless – from free-standing lamps and flameless LED ‘candles’ that flicker like the real thing, to solar-powered lanterns (set one on a table and ‘nest’ others amongst your plants) and flexible string lights woven in and around the railing.
With so many ideas out there, even the smallest balcony can be turned into a cosy outdoor living space. Go for it!
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