How to Add Comfort and Style to Your Balcony
A balcony can be a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and even to entertain friends and family, but only if the space is comfortable and welcoming. A sparse balcony that seems bland and uninviting can mean a space that you actually avoid, rather than enjoy. Note a few tips for adding comfort and style to your balcony, no matter its size and no matter your budget:
Fabric
Fabric softens the look of any outdoor space, even a sparse balcony. Consider adding a thick outdoor rug for a bold splash of colour and comfort underfoot, and to help absorb sound. Oversized, colourful cushions and an outdoor tablecloth can also make the space feel comfortable and inviting, so add lots of fabric to your balcony to make it soft and welcoming.
Add nature
You may go out onto the balcony to enjoy the view of surrounding nature, but it's also good to add some nature to the balcony itself. Bring in potted plants, a vase of flowers or a flower box you hang from the railing, and a small water fountain to make the area more cosy and relaxing.
Lighting
A dark and dim balcony can seem drab and unwelcoming and may be impossible to use at night. Add some safe, outdoor candles to the space for a warm glow; even battery-operated candles are better than no light at all, and they're not a fire risk. If there is an electrical outlet on the balcony, string some outdoor rope lights around the balcony railing and plug these in, for a great look in the evening.
Air circulation
Sitting outside when it's overly warm and the air doesn't seem to move can be very unpleasant, so add an outdoor fan to your balcony. You can usually find fans that are meant for balcony spaces and which clip to a railing, or which you can attach to an exterior wall with a heavy-duty drill and a masonry bit. This can mean fresh air and less heat and humidity on the balcony space.
Privacy
You may not enjoy your outdoor space if it's too close to your neighbours, or if there is a nearby roadway or other eyesores. To add privacy to the area, hang outdoor curtains or have balcony shutters installed. This can mean blocking out the view while still allowing in fresh air and light when needed, and both options can add colour and style to the balcony as well.
Contact a company like Shutterflex for more information and assistance.
