On glorious warm sunny days and relaxing summer evenings, an unloved balcony is a tragic sight no matter its size. So if you are currently using yours as a graveyard for dead plants or broken outdoor furniture, listen up. There are dozens of great ideas for transforming a neglected outdoor space into an irresistible hangout for relaxing and entertaining.
Affordable Decking
Igor Josif/Instagram
The typical apartment balcony has a concrete floor that is devoid of personality. Fortunately, you can spruce up a boring slab with interlocking deck tiles, the way Igor Josif did with here. They are very easy to install by simply snapping the pieces together. And if you are a renter, you should know they are a cinch to remove.
Balcony With a Planter Wall 
Coffee Home Bea/Instagram
A planter wall sets the tone for this lovely balcony by Coffee Home Bea. Vibrant florals add a festive touch. Wicker furniture and green astroturf create a decorative haven to retreat to when you want to unwind and relax.
Bamboo Privacy Screen
Friendship Furniture
Design: Jessica Bunge for EHD/Photographer: Sara Liggoria-Tramp
Jessica Bunge from Emily Henderson Design took her extremely narrow balcony and turned it into a Parisian-style dream. The alternating deck tiles from IKEA were the result of a DIY project she took on to turn a concrete floor into something much more aesthetic. The vintage dining set was initially a set of four that she split with a friend—also known as friendship furniture. This concept works remarkably well for small balconies that don’t have the space to accommodate a larger number of chairs.
Egg Shaped Chair
Kodikkaasti/Instagram
Rather than sticking with an average set of chairs, it doesn’t hurt to add in something a bit more whimsical—like an egg-shaped chair. This chair takes up the perfect amount of space—without being too overwhelming— on this balcony from Kodikkaasti. The stacked flower baskets in the corner and the paper lantern above add a stunning decorative element that ties things together.
_allezeitderwelt_/Instagram
Who doesn’t love simple projects that add function and style to spaces? Case in point: this super affordable privacy screen idea by Yeri at Allezeitderwelt. A simple addition of a half privacy screen made of thin bamboo strands still allows for a view without giving onlookers a full view of the space. The cozy fabric palette on the ground is nestled in the perfect spot for some relaxation in a refreshing atmosphere.
Make It an Extension
My House My Decor 10/Instagram
Let’s be honest—small balconies can feel suffocating at times. While there is plenty of potential to create your perfect balcony space, one option is to make the balcony feel like an extension of your home, rather than an entirely separate part altogether. Opening up the doors and windows—like My House My Decor 10 did here— and keeping a similar theme between rooms can help make a smaller balcony feel much larger.
A Little Urban Jungle
Gomes Höeppner Balkon/Instagram
Indulge your green thumb by turning your balcony into a little urban jungle. This lovely outdoor space from F.R. Gomes-Hoppner is covered with beautiful greenery and seasonal flowers. Covering the railing are flower boxes. The tiny accent table and chair is a perfect space for one, overlooking the view of the city. The large umbrella brings the perfect amount of shade to protect from the Sun’s harsh rays.
