18 Small Balcony Ideas and Designs
Small or large, a balcony provides a welcome private space to enjoy the great outdoors.
A patio or balcony ranks high when it comes to desired features on an apartment or condo. Even if the condo or apartment balcony is small, having a place to step outside for a breath of fresh air is beneficial.
A tiny balcony may not leave room for much more than a pair of small chairs, but there are still ways to make it a beautiful, functional outdoor space.
Some houses also include a balcony or two—welcome spaces to try out creative balcony décor. Scroll through our best small balcony ideas for inspiration on making your balcony your favorite room of all.
1. Go For A Coastal Theme
A small balcony can be a peaceful and tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Transform your tiny space into a coastal haven with light wood deck furniture, accentuated by blue coastal wall decor. Add a few decorative plants for that added touch of green and there you have it – your own mini paradise.
Make sure to open the curtains on hot summer days so that natural light streams in, ensuring that the coastal charm remains intact. Whether you prefer to sip coffee here in the early mornings or host outdoor dinners with close friends, this thoughtful decoration will help make the most of your small balcony.
2. Keep Up With The Seasons
Nothing says “Welcome” like a balcony with some Halloween decor! As the season changes, it’s so easy to mix up the balcony space and transform it into different looks. Whether one loves a spooky atmosphere or something more inviting, making a small balcony look fabulous can be done on any budget.
The possibilities are endless when planning for a seasonal balcony; just take some photos of inspiration, visit craft and thrift stores for unique items, and let the creative juices flow! Before you know it, guests will be lining up your balcony door.
3. Assemble A Decor Peg Board
Don’t let a small balcony feel like a wasted space! A decor peg board is the perfect solution for creating an inspiring corner to make all your decor dreams come true.
Transform it into a great spot to relax and soak up some nature, while also being able to change it easily whenever you please so that you can always make it the exact atmosphere you need.
Great for setting the mood, decorating a real-life mood board on this small balcony of yours is highly recommended.
4. Play With Lighting
A small balcony can easily be transformed into a cozy and inviting area with just a few simple touches. One of the best ways to diversify the lightning of your outdoor space is by adding string lights, lamps, and even candles, which can help create a warm and ambient atmosphere.
The creative possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating your small balcony; so take the initiative, explore different ideas, and let your imagination run wild!
5. Set Up An Herb Sanctuary
With a little potted garden of gerb plants, a couple of chairs with the addition of some colorful throw pillows, and maybe even a chalkboard to write inspiring quotes on–how can you NOT fall in love with your small balcony?
Sitting here lets you experience the beauty of morning coffee with nothing but birdsong as your companion, or take in the warmth that emanates out of the sun’s rays as you sip an evening tea.
You can also hang up some photos or paintings to make it even more personalized! In one word–transformation! Unleash your creativity and redefine your balcony into something uniquely yours.
6. Introduce Greens To Your Space With Artificial Grass
A small balcony can provide an incredible opportunity for transformation, with some artificial grass and a few plants, it can unexpectedly come alive.
Throw in the perfect mix of comfortable pillows and blankets, this spot has the potential to become an outdoor room that feels airy and light – plus, with the artificial grass, you won’t have to worry about any unnecessary maintenance.
7. Make A Boho Paradise With Macrame
Transform your patio into a boho boudoir with macrame wall decor and macrame plant hangers to hang lush plants, such as ferns, ivy, and bougainvillea. Get creative with painting the balcony walls a bold hue that complements the boho-style accessories.
Place comfy boho seating on the floor of your balcony and add bright patterned pillows for a touch of whimsy. Whether you use it as a backdrop for yoga classes or as a place to enjoy your morning coffee, bring boho vibes to your small balcony to create a tranquil outdoor space!
8. Set Up A Meditation Corner
Even the smallest balcony can be transformed into a meditation corner fit for relaxation and rejuvenation. Start by strategically arranging a yoga mat, over which you can then display any crystals of your choosing. Adding an innovative Himalayan salt lamp that illuminates a warm, orange glow will really bring the atmosphere together.
For an extra special meditation experience, light some scented candles that set off the perfect balance of aromatherapy to calm and clear one’s thoughts. This safe little meditation corner on the balcony can become a beautiful escape from life’s everyday stresses.
9. Say It With Flowers
Adding potted flowers and seating to any small balcony, no matter the size, can turn it into a space welcoming of laughter and long conversations. With potted plants of bright colors, a small balcony filled with flowers will suddenly become home to lively birdsong, the gentle breeze whispering secrets through the blooming petals and lush green leaves.
Make it complete with some seating and you’ll be able to participate in an enchanting world anytime you like – just step out and let nature’s vibrant display work its magic on you.
10. Modern-Industrial Flair
Transform your small balcony into modern industrial chic with copper fixtures, modern industrial lines, and black leather seating. Create an open-air living space for an intimate experience outdoors. Design your modern industrial oasis with bright splashes of color to add vibrancy, such as brightly colored chairs or a table centerpiece.
Hang fairy lights around the railing of your balcony to enhance the modern industrial look and feel while providing a warm, ambient atmosphere.
11. Add A Pop Of Color To The Walls
Just a few vibrant-colored walls and the right accessories can turn an everyday space into something special. A daring pop of color against a neutral backdrop will make it irresistibly eye-catching, and you’ll find yourself wanting to spend more time basking in the sunlight or starlight than ever before.
Adding fun accessories like comfy seating cushions or vibrant-colored plants can also create an inviting and lively atmosphere perfect for lounging after a long day. With some creative effort, your small balcony will no longer be dull – but will feel vibrant and alive!
12. Install Faux Brick Wallpaper
Installing faux brick wallpaper gives you the perfect opportunity to use your creativity – choosing shades and colors that will speak to your intended atmosphere. An accent wall – which, depending on your style preference, could be made with wood paneling, tiles, or vibrant artwork – will add texture and further contribute to the inviting atmosphere of the balcony.
Whether you’re spending time by yourself or entertaining your friends, a few smart décor ideas can turn any outdoor space into something special.
13. Utilize Your Railings By Adding Hook Pots
Having a small balcony shouldn’t be a limitation – it can be an opportunity for creativity! Get railings with hanging potted plants so you can use vertical space for your garden. To maximize the available space railings with hanging potted plants and pots with hooks are excellent for utilizing every inch of the railing.
With a variety of prints and colors of pots to choose from, you can DIY depending on your preferences. In no time your tiny balcony will become a blooming and vibrant sanctuary.
14. Fill The Room With Plants
The small balcony full of lush plants and greenery creates a sense of serenity that is hard to match. With the plants placed spontaneously around the area, you can almost imagine yourself in a small pocket of nature, nestled away in the city.
It’s a simple way to add a touch of tranquility to your day-to-day and feel as though you’ve gone somewhere special without leaving home. The small balcony is an easy escape that doesn’t require traveling across miles of land, but simply one small step out of the door.
15. Make It Cozy With A Hammock
A small balcony can be the ultimate spot to relax and let go of day-to-day stresses. To amplify its calming vibe, why not jazz it up with a hammock or some hammock-style hanging seating? This way, you can curl up so conveniently and become part of the surrounding nature.
All it takes is a few perched plants or maybe even a bird feeder to turn your small balcony into a cozy little escape from the world.
16. Keep It Rustic With Rattan & Wood Elements
Give your small balcony an inviting rustic atmosphere with rattan and wood furniture, fringe throw blankets, and boho decor. A rattan chair paired with a side table provides a cozy spot to relax after a long day.
Soften up the space with fringe throw blankets draped over the rattan-style seating for added comfort. Finally, add some rustic charm by hanging string lights along the balcony railing and displaying vintage lanterns or planters with rustic accents like stone or rattan. You’ll be amazed at how much coziness you can create in such a small space!
17. Make It Fun With Mismatched Throw Pillows
With just a few mismatched throw pillows, you can create an elevated experience. Invest in soft materials like linen and cotton that will invite you onto the balcony like a cozy hug.
Playing with prints and texture gives a mismatching effect that can turn into an interesting conversation starter when you entertain guests! neutralizing the interior with black, white and grey furnishings that give a sense of versatility. Hang up sheer curtains to lend the atmosphere a breezy feel or a touch of privacy from neighbors. Add colorful cushions and cozy rugs to create visual interest and contrast. Place planters on each side with low-maintenance plants, ideal for any sunny or shaded spot on your balcony. Last but not least, place string lights across your balcony for nights filled with sparkles and dreamy vibes.
With the right touches, your balcony can be transformed into a lovely nook you’ll never want to leave.
18. Keep It Neutral
Neutralize the interior with black, white, and grey furnishings that give a sense of versatility. Hang up sheer curtains to lend the atmosphere a breezy feel or a touch of privacy from neighbors. Add colorful cushions and cozy rugs to create visual interest and contrast.
Place planters on each side with low-maintenance plants, ideal for any sunny or shaded spot on your balcony.
Last but not least, place string lights across your balcony for nights filled with sparkles and dreamy vibes.
Small Balcony FAQs
A lush balcony garden can help screen you from nosy neighbors. Block off your balcony space with rolling shutters or folding privacy screens that can be stashed out of sight. A beaded curtain is a fun bohemian balcony design idea that also provides privacy.
Make use of all available vertical space to keep your floor space clear for furniture. Instead of a bistro set, install a narrow bar with minimalist bar stools you can park underneath. Look for other space saving furniture and vertical plant trellises.
Named after the famous Shakespeare character, a Juliet balcony is a narrow railed balcony adjacent to a window or glass door on an upper floor of a building. You may not have room to sit on a Juliet balcony, but there probably is enough room for some potted plants and flower pots.