Big houses are a thing of the past. With shrinking spaces, small balconies have become the norm. If you have a tiny balcony worry not for here are a few smart tips to turn it into your personal oasis, writes Mala Ashok
Gone are the days of large homes with great porches. Now, apartments are the name of the game and small balconies are the norm. But, the good news is that small is smart. By choosing décor that is comfortable yet chic, one can make an oasis in their little outdoor space.
Need smart ideas for your small apartment balcony? You’re not alone; however, there is no need to make do with lackluster furnishings or none at all. There’s so much available in the marketplace that caters to small spaces that no one should have an excuse for a balcony that is not beautiful as well as comfortable.
More importantly, beautiful and comfortable need not necessarily mean expensive. Decorating can be fun even when done cheaply. We in India are very fortunate that we can buy bright rugs, mats, dhurries, and Jamakaalams that come in multi-coloured hues. These lend themselves very well to inexpensive patio furniture that can be bought in matching colours. Even a simple striped carpet offers several colour scheme alternatives. This not only enhances the appeal of your balcony but also adds a pleasant finish to your whole decoration scheme.
Outdoor spaces are such a great opportunity to enjoy the weather without having to get out. A balcony can also be the perfect sanctuary, away from all of the noise, stress and prying eyes of the outside world. With small balconies, proper furnishing can utilise all or most of the space without appearing cluttered.
You can go for a lush green setting or a modern, clean and contemporary look. Some of my friends with green thumbs have their entire balconies filled with potted plants. Some grow just flowers and the more ambitious ones grow their own vegetables and herbs.
I, on the other hand am terrible with plants, so I stick to the small card table and a cosy chair beside it to read and soak in the view. I love to fall asleep reading! Similarly, you can personalise the space and create a bit of outdoor heaven in your balconies.Those of you who want to save the floor space for other purposes can use hanging baskets to grow plants. Choose seasonal flowers which can grow in a pot to add colour to your little garden. Most herbs like coriander and basil are also suitable for small spaces. These pots can be placed in colourful ornate baskets to give them a more glamorous look. If you are one of those lucky ones with a larger balcony you can even invest in shrubs and trees. Bonsai is great for this purpose. One of my cousins recently harvested a dozen oranges from her bonsai tree!
Since your plants are not taking up the entire floor space in your balcony, big or small, you can make room for seating. Forget cheap plastic chairs. Instead, consider classic benches or even hammocks! Throw in a few comfortable, coloured and washable cushions and they will make any seat glamorous.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to choose whimsical and bright colours and designs. Unlike areas of your indoors that are designed for utilitarian purposes, a balcony is built for relaxation and entertaining. The friendlier the space, the more inviting it will seem to your friends and other guests.
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