Across fifteen major American cities, only 62% of residents have access to private outdoor space. That includes balconies, decks, porches, and patios.
A balcony gives you access to the great outdoors without leaving your home. You can have your own little slice of nature, even as a city dweller.
But if you don’t spend any time out there, you’re wasting precious outdoor real estate.
Luckily, the right decor can turn your bland balcony into a relaxing retreat. Read on to get eight fresh balcony decor ideas to liven up your space.
1. Roll Out an Area Rug
Want to make your balcony feel as cozy as your living room? Consider adding a fun area rug.
Look for outdoor area rugs with bright colors or geometric patterns to add visual interest to your patio. Take measurements before you buy so you’ll know the rug will fit.
2. Add String Lights or Lanterns
A simple strand of string lights or a few lanterns can transform your outdoor space. Plus, this balcony decoration idea will only cost you a few dollars.
If you don’t have electricity on your patio, choose battery-operated lights instead.
3. Think Vertically
If you have limited floor space, look up. Do you have any usable wall space?
Try hanging up some outdoor art or setting up a shelving unit for your herb garden. Not only will it save space, it will also make your patio look roomier than it is.
4. Use Floor Pillows
Looking for small balcony ideas? Try a few floor pillows in fun patterns if you don’t have room for a table and chairs. Even if space is tight, you’ll still have a comfy place to sit.
In the off season, you can use these cushions in your living room for extra seating.
5. Set Up a Hammock
Have you always dreamed of lounging in a hammock? You don’t need a tree or a bulky metal stand—you can secure it to two spots on your balcony.
If you’re lucky enough to have an oversized balcony like some nice apartments offer, you can set up a hammock and still have room for extra seating.
6. Put Up a Privacy Screen
Neighbors are nice, but sometimes you want a little privacy. You can put up a privacy screen that will block the view of your neighbor’s balcony while doubling as a cool decoration.
If a privacy screen is too bulky, you can also use tall bamboo plants or a hanging shade for a little extra privacy.
7. Add Temporary Floor Tiles
If the floor of your balcony has seen better days, you can jazz it up without losing your security deposit. Try some removable peel-and-stick tiles or wooden floor planks.
Plus, you’ll be able to take them with you when you move out.
8. Include Plenty of Greenery
Plants and flowers on a balcony is a trend that will never go out of style. Add a few hanging baskets or potted plants and you’ll have something beautiful to look at, even from inside your apartment.
You could even start your own vegetable or herb garden.
Transform Your Balcony Today
No matter the size, any of these balcony ideas will make your outdoor space feel cozier and more inviting. It might take a little creativity, but that’s half the fun.
For more clever decorating ideas, keep scrolling through our blog.