How to decorate a small balcony with charm?

Even if your balcony is small, you can turn it into a cosy, functional and stylish space. So, if you want to know how to decorate a small balcony with charm, the key is to make the most of every inch, choose compact and sturdy garden furniture sets and include pleasant and personal decorations.

In this post, we’ll share the best decorating ideas for a small balcony, as well as what to consider before decorating and the best furniture for this type of space.

What aspects should be taken into account when decorating small balconies?

Before you start thinking about decorating a small balcony, you need to assess certain conditions that will determine which furniture is most suitable. In this regard, the main aspects to consider are:

• Available space: accurately measuring the space is the first step in decorating small balconies. In addition to calculating the available surface area, you must take into account any possible obstacles such as columns, railings or access doors.
• Shape of the balcony: depending on whether your balcony is long and narrow or square, the layout of the furniture will be different. To achieve charming narrow balconies, it is advisable to place the furniture against the wall, while on balconies with more space you can create different corners.
• Orientation and sunlight: another aspect to consider when decorating a small balcony is how many hours of sunlight it receives, which will influence both the plants you can place there and the need to add elements that protect you from the sun. Thus, on south-facing balconies, it may be a good idea to install an awning or parasol.
• Local climate: Similarly, you need to consider the weather conditions in the area where you live. Although it is always advisable to choose weather-resistant materials when decorating small balconies, this is even more important if you live in areas exposed to strong winds, rain or heat.
• Privacy: depending on the height and location of the balcony, it may be too exposed. Therefore, before decorating it, it is advisable to consider whether it is necessary to add elements that provide privacy, such as tall planters, screens or even outdoor curtains.
• Intended use: it is also important to consider how you intend to use the balcony, as designing a reading and relaxation area is not the same as designing a small outdoor dining area or a green corner with plant pots.

Ideas for making the most of small balconies: Decorative and functional

Once you have analysed the characteristics of your balcony, it is time to start choosing the furniture and arranging the space to your liking. If you don’t know where to start, here are some ideas for a small balcony that will help you make the most of it.

Take advantage of vertical space

When you have limited floor space, walls become your best ally for decorating very small balconies. You can hang vertical planters to add a touch of green to your balcony, or even floating shelves where you can place decorative items.

Opt for compact furniture

When it comes to furniture for your small decorated balcony, it is best to choose small, lightweight models that are easy to move if necessary. Stackable furniture is a good option for very small spaces, but you should always consider comfort as well as functionality.

Choose light colours

A light colour palette will help to increase the feeling of space. Using white, beige or soft grey tones as a base helps to better reflect natural light, while slightly more intense touches of colour in details such as cushions or plants add freshness without overloading the space.

Don’t forget the lighting

Another key aspect of decorating a small, narrow balcony is lighting, which can completely transform a space. To enjoy this area even when natural light is scarce, you can install LED garlands, portable lanterns or even hanging lamps if the balcony has a ceiling, creating a cosy atmosphere both at dusk and into the night.

Place mirrors to give a feeling of space

A trick for decorating charming mini balconies is to use a mirror, as this will multiply the natural light and create greater visual depth. Placed on a side wall of the balcony, they optically enlarge the space and add a very pleasant decorative touch.

Choose weather-resistant materials

But it’s not just important to think about how to decorate small balconies, you also need to bear in mind that all the furniture you put out there must be resistant to outdoor conditions. It must be able to withstand changes in temperature, rain and wind without losing its appearance or properties.

Create pleasant shade

Although creating a shaded area is always a good idea, it is especially recommended if your balcony is exposed to the sun during the hottest hours of the day. You can incorporate an awning or parasol into the décor of your narrow balcony so that you can enjoy it at any time of day.

Decorate with personality

Finally, you will need to add the finishing touches to the décor of your small balcony, and this is where you have the most scope to add a personal touch. Add pictures, plant pots, cushions, candles or any other decorative items you like, trying to create a space where you feel comfortable.

The best furniture for decorating small balconies with charm

Now that you have several ideas for small balconies, let’s focus on the most important part of the decoration: the furniture.

When space is limited, it is important to choose pieces that combine practicality and style. In addition, furniture maintenance is another aspect to consider, as if you want it to be quick and easy, it is preferable to opt for materials such as aluminium, polypropylene or synthetic rattan.

Here are some furniture options for small balconies that you can find in our catalogue:

• Side tables: ideal for placing drinks or small decorative objects without taking up too much space.
• Stackable chairs: easy to store when not in use, allowing you to make the most of your space.
• Table and two chair sets: perfect for breakfast or coffee, creating a cosy and functional space.
• Compact armchairs: provide comfort without overloading the space, creating an ideal reading or resting corner to relax in.
• Outdoor poufs: a versatile and lightweight piece of furniture that you can use as an extra seat or footrest.
• Corner sofas: if you have a few extra metres, placing a corner sofa is a great idea to make the most of the corners of your balcony.
• Ceramic or tempered glass coffee tables: these add an elegant and modern touch and are highly resistant to inclement weather.
• Pictures and plant pots: to decorate narrow or small balconies, you can place some elegant terracotta plant pots and pretty pictures to add the finishing touch to the space.

How to decorate a small balcony on a budget?

If you have a limited budget and are wondering how to decorate small balconies on a budget, you should know that it is possible if you opt for practical and multifunctional solutions.

For example, stackable chairs are usually a more economical option, which also allows you to rearrange the balcony according to your needs at any given time. You can add a small side table and several poufs to complete the seating area without spending a lot of money.

It is also advisable to opt for materials such as polypropylene or aluminium, which are not particularly expensive but maintain the necessary quality and resistance to the outdoors. LED lighting is another affordable option for creating a cosy atmosphere and extending the hours you can enjoy your balcony.

Finally, choosing decorative elements that add colour to the space without breaking the bank is key. At Home Zentrum, we offer oil paintings and terracotta plant pots that will look great on your small balcony.