60+ Ways To Transform a Tiny Balcony Into an Outside Oasis

Create your own elevated escape

When it comes to outside space, size isn't everything. With a few streamlined furniture solutions and some stylish décor, even the snuggest balcony can be transformed into an elevated oasis. Whether you want an alfresco dining space, an outdoor living room or a peaceful green escape above the hustle and bustle of the city, click or scroll through these beautiful balcony ideas that are sure to inspire.

Make it open-plan

Treat a long balcony to an open-plan living vibe by zoning the space. This modern outdoor dining room is set up for ultimate entertainers with a garden table and chairs at one end. The other offers a sofa, round wicker coffee table, and soft pouffes for after-dinner drinks. Pops of yellow and potted cacti add urban Californian style. 

Dine alfresco

Turn your balcony into an intimate outdoor dining space just for two. Choose a lightweight table and chairs, adding a glass tabletop for ultimate bistro supper style that's also incredibly versatile. You can easily change things up with your crockery, cutlery, and comfortable textiles to match your chosen dining theme. 

Brighten black slats

Allow vibrant colors to explode onto your balcony with a black painted privacy trellis and gray garden furniture. The urban, moody tones make an ideal contrast for jazzy shades that will liven up a small space. Mix orange, cobalt blue, and yellow cushions, then echo the citrusy hues with cute bird motif wall art and teal hanging planters. 

Craft a viewing spot

Your balcony can easily transform into a comfortable corner for a spot of people watching, nature appreciation or simply snoozing. Measure the length and width of the space and install a small corner sofa, turned outwards. Add a low level coffee table, then sit back relax and watch the world go by. Don't forget your favorite blankets and cushions.

Add privacy with plants

Your floating garden is the perfect place to plant out some beautiful greenery and flowers right now, especially in easy to move pots and containers. Plants are a great way of providing natural privacy too. Start with pretty floor decking and smaller pots, working up to a screen or trellis framed with planters filled with fresh herbs and plants that are happy outside. An instant secret garden all your own. 

Set it up for sunset

If you're lucky enough to own a south-facing balcony with a view, the chances are you witness many beautiful sunsets. Get your sun-trap ready for the event with comfortable seating, blankets, storm lanterns and candles. Hanging starburst hoops full of twinkly fairy lights on your balcony walls will add to the twilight ambience. 

Pop in a three-tier planter

Look out for space-saving ideas that work well in a small space. A vertical three-tiered planter is an ideal choice as it injects lush foliage and draws the eye up. It also means you can plant larger or trailing plants at height and allow them to flow across and down the walls of you balcony oasis. 

Go global

Add a global theme to a contemporary balcony with low level lounge seating and earthy toned textiles. Layer up the urban vibe with a corner display of structural plants potted in modern terracotta pots. 

Choose slatted furniture

In a small space, wise furniture choices will enhance the sense of space. A traditional bistro table with slim legs and strip metal chair backs will let light flow through. Use a traditional iron bar balcony barrier to hang greenery. This will keep most of the floor space free and uncluttered and create the illusion of more space. 

Monochrome the masonry

A flash of vibrant color can instantly transform a compact space. It can also provide a dramatic backdrop to your balcony furniture, plants, and accessories. Maximize the sense of space by echoing the wall shade with matching furniture for a fluid look that is so on-trend. 

Paint a wall effect

Paint effects are all the rage on interior walls so why not take the feature onto the balcony too? It's a fun way to add color and pattern to blank exterior walls. This simple russet red circle pops out of a white back drop and adds a curvy contrast to the square space full of angles. 

Tie up a hammock

Hammocks aren't just for beaches and between trees, a small balcony can be a perfect secluded spot to bed down on. Choose a fringed version and fill it with exotic print cushions in earthy tones. Add lanterns and you've got yourself a sunny oasis to gently swing the day away in. ​

Create carnival style

Curate a lively carnival-style corner with a few budget buys. Fun fruity shaped cushions and leafy jungle-style plants that don't even have to be real will instantly add tropical flavor. Finish the look with LED festoon lights hung low to keep the party going as the sun goes down. 

Cover with a canopy

An all-white balcony can often become a sun trap, so a canopy for shade is usually needed at some point during the day. Take inspiration from this simple idea of draping white fabric from rustic branches suspended from the ceiling. It instantly adds a lazy yet refined Mediterranean holiday feel to the space, plus some protection from the sunshine.

Fit a fabulous floor

Looking to add a little more style to a plain balcony floor? These IKEA porcelain floor decking tiles simply click together and create a beautiful statement. Let the floor lead and use understated outdoor furniture and paired back plants and foliage to create an elevated outdoor space.

Slot in a diner

Small open-plan apartments often lack space for a dining table so take your meals out on the balcony and enjoy an alfresco dining experience. A compact version with benches that tuck under the table will free up space when it's not in use. Hang outdoor lighting to allow for meals at any time of day or night.

Jazz up with color

Give an all-white balcony a color crush with hits of vibrant color. Choose metal furniture with simple lines in joyful primary colors and unique accessories for an uplifting look full of freshness. Light will bounce off the white walls, intensifying the color and creating the ultimate happy holiday vibe.

Go organic

For a look that's a little different, layer textured rattan furniture with bleached linens and pale-leaf plants. The chunky weaved seating will create a natural retreat that's easy to achieve. Silvery leafed plants such as small olive trees or potted eucalyptus will complement the cool tones.

Keep it simple

Combine natural texture and peach melba tones for a relaxed boho vibe. Place coral colored, retro-look furniture on a round sisal rug against a neutral background and border with leafy potted plants for instant fresh energy and breezy vibes.

Work in the sunshine

It seems we are looking everywhere in our homes to find new homeworking spaces right now and the balcony is no exception. We love this zingy alfresco office with trough bistro set that doubles as a desk. The turquoise painted privacy screen allows for focus while the planter on the work surface is a chic and original addition.

Pot up a treat

Potted plants and balconies are a match made in heaven, proving you don't need a huge space to create your own horticultural haven. Start with one or two larger pots, then layer smaller varieties in between that won't obstruct your view. Tie in the foliage with your furniture by adding a centerpiece to your table. 

'Bee' enchanting

Build your own little beehive on your balcony. Filled with fun and quirky bee motifs and accessories, it's a quick way to add personality and character to your patch of outdoor space. You can also do your bit for the environment by adding a wall-mounted insect hotel and blooms that little honey makers love. 

Experiment with illusion

Give your balcony a contemporary twist by adding new-form furniture. This funky statement chaise longue is not would you'd expect on a balcony but we love the simple and contemporary style, color, and character. Black metal legs against dark decking almost make it look as though it's floating. One large pot of bamboo finishes the ultra-urban appeal.

Take your herb garden to new heights

If you fancy a kitchen garden minus the mess, then wall-mounted plant bags could be an innovative solution. A great way to grow produce and feed the family, these green planters can hold herbs, salad, vegetables and flowers, plus they create a cool feature wall that ties in perfectly with the scheme's two-tone color palette. 

Keep floors clear

Use privacy screens to hang greenery to free up floor space. The visual impact at different heights will also draw the eye up, enhancing the sense of space. Furniture that blends into the background will help blur the boundaries too. 

Install artificial grass

Fake the look of a lawn growing on your balcony with artificial grass. With such a small space to cover you can afford to splash out on good quality turf that is super life-like. Make sure the surface area of your balcony is flat and has good drainage and seek the advice of a professional before laying, or lay a patch like a rug that can be rolled up when not in use. Enhance the mini oasis with bright colored pots and bright seat cushions. 

Go in a new direction

Working with a pocket-sized space? One way to make your balcony feel larger is to play with the direction you place furnishings. In this scheme by myhome, two cozy chairs face inward, towards the interior living room, blurring the line between inside and out and creating the illusion of a larger space. Mini citrus trees and orange accent cushions add a refreshing finish to this urban oasis.

Mix and match furniture

An easy way to add color, curvy string chairs in bold, vibrant shades will create a fiesta of fun in your outdoor room. Team with deck chairs and a hammock in contrasting hues and prints and arrange around a low-level table for an eclectic social space.

Be bold with color

A hit of strong color will instantly inject personality into your elevated space. This exotic and adventurous pink is offset beautifully against contrasting dark wood and black furnishings. Paint a feature wall or alcove for an inviting snug to recline in and soak up the summer sun.

Stencil a stylish floor

Personalize your balcony floor by adding a wow-factor, weather-proof pattern. Rather than relying on an outdoor rug, this fabulous balcony features a stunning painted statement floor created with a Spanish tile stencil, bringing the Mediterranean a little closer to home.

Light a firepit

Faded flooring teamed with comfortable outdoor furniture in muted tones will create a Scandi atmosphere that's calming and laid-back. Enjoy the outdoors even on chillier days with a warming and rustic firepit. Make sure your balcony is ground-level and always be fire safe if you're considering a firepit feature on a balcony space.

Bring in a bright screen

Add a touch of color to a contemporary balcony with a moveable divider. A versatile screen can offer privacy and shade or help define different zones in a multifunctional outdoor area. Choose a design that's woven, like this tactile blue and green model, to allow air to flow through. 

Plump for pastel shades

Cheer up a compact patio space with bistro furniture in soft and breezy pastel colors. These pretty metal chairs are a practical purchase too as they can be folded away when more space is required. Accessorize with plants that feature pink and peach leaf variegations for a colorful and coordinated outdoor scheme.

Dare to go dark and dramatic

Transform your balcony into a cozy, cocooned space by experimenting with a dark color scheme. Start with walnut wood-effect floor tiles and continue the mood with hexagon wall tiles in a similar earthy tone. Contemporary black garden furniture is a stylish choice, while sculptural potted plants will lift the dramatic hue.

Hang around in style

When square footage is in short supply, hanging seating is a space-savvy furniture choice. This white geometric chair creates a show-stopping focal point on a pocket-sized balcony. Embrace a carefree desert aesthetic and pair with cactus, seagrass planters and rough plastered walls in warm romantic shades.

Layer rugs

If you're fond of a relaxed, tactile finish, extend the aesthetic to your outdoor area. Try layering rugs in different patterns and colors for a cozy look that creates depth in a balcony that may be limited on square footage. Pouffes and stools that can also double up as tables are a great way to add space-efficient seating too.

Wood panel the walls

Turn to earthy tones and textures for a harmonious space where you can kick back and relax. Set the mood with rustic wood paneling and pair with woven furnishings in geometric patterns. Accessorize with funky festoon lights and potted greenery for your very own urban oasis.

Add a splash of sunshine

With a sunny color palette, your balcony can bring a burst of sunshine to the grayest of skies. Here, a bright yellow bistro set makes a vibrant statement in this snug outside space, while pretty pots in matching tones add an extra hit of color.

Work in wall art

Add character to your outdoor space by showcasing unique decorative touches. Hang quirky wall art, like these metal leaves and feathers, to frame an outside seating area. Opt for pieces that can withstand a little weathering and ensure they're secured with sturdy mounting hooks to keep them in place in bad weather.

Play with pattern

Bold geometric patterns are a great way to freshen up a small space. Start with a graphic outdoor rug and then add vibrant cushions and throws – the bolder and brighter the better; this look is about embracing clashing color combinations.

Fall for a floor lamp

A top trick to channel inside-outside living on your balcony is to add a stylish outdoor floor lamp. This classic white model is designed to withstand extreme weather while providing ambient lighting when the sun goes down.

Pull up a chair

Design your balcony around a statement piece with real wow-factor. This bright yellow wire chair and table, paired with matching sunny cushions are the perfect choice for a simple, uplifting scheme. Frame the contemporary setup with a trio of planters potted with large ferns to anchor the colorful corner.

Hang festoon lights

Strings of fairy lights are a great way to illuminate small outdoor spaces and evoke an ambience in the evenings. For a whimsical feel, opt for festoon lighting which mimics exposed light bulb fittings. Available in glass or plastic, they're a great way to bring your balcony bang up to date.

Pop up a parasol

If your balcony is exposed to the full sun, an elegant parasol will help keep your space useable in the hot summer months. Cream walls, paper lanterns and an ivy-clad wooden trellis will keep the look bright and fresh, even in the shade. 

Turn to transforming furniture

Tight spaces require smart furniture. Look out for compact, convertible furniture that makes the most of every inch of floor space. This half-moon table attaches neatly to balcony railings and folds down when not in use. 

Grow a living wall

If you'd rather fill your floor space with furniture rather than plant pots, consider adding greenery with a vertical living wall and natural canopy. Fit a small frame or trellis and introduce climbing plants such as clematis, wisteria or honeysuckle. Their fragrant scents will be a welcome addition, plus their foliage is perfect for disguising unsightly walls.

Pot up the walls

If you're short on space but yearning for your own green retreat, consider fixing plant pots to the walls too. Secure your shrubs safely with a wall-mounted bracket for your very own stylish floating garden. Make sure you opt for plants with small root systems, or you might find a few try to make a break for it...

Create a cocoon

No room to stretch out on a hammock? No problem – these hanging cocoon chairs are a fun, space-savvy alternative. A relaxing retreat for adults or an exciting nook for children, they just need securely fixing to overhanging beams.

Add an industrial edge

Give balconies with cement or concrete-look flooring an inviting yet industrial twist with soft rattan furniture mounted on black metal legs. Black cushions will continue the contemporary look and a faux fur rug and lush greenery complete the space. 

Nail neutral tones

If you're after a cool, calming space, why not pass up bright brash shades for a more understated neutral decorating palette? Here, light gray woodwork and furnishings create a soothing pared-back scheme, providing the perfect backdrop for shrubs and greenery to pop.

Channel seaside chic

Bring laid-back surfer vibes to your own private piece of paradise, even if you're miles from the ocean. To add a sprinkling of coastal décor, scatter a white outdoor sofa with pastel-patterned cushions and accessorize with natural materials like seagrass and jute, then sit back and wait for the waves to roll in. 

Go for a laid-back lounge vibe

Embrace a funky retro theme with relaxed low-level seating. These models, made from white UV-stabilized plastic, will not only last longer in direct sunlight but also add bags of character to a simple balcony space. Accessorise with Bluetooth speakers so you can blast that chill tunes playlist...

Feature the floor

You don't need to fill a balcony with furniture to make it shine. Feature the floor with bright tiling or a bold outdoor rug to add wow-factor. Against fresh white spindles, this blue and white pattern creates a beautiful Hamptons-style focal point. Accessorize with oversized cushions and a bean bag for a snug corner to cozy up in.

Create the perfect breakfast spot

Tiny living can still be super stylish. This petite but practical balcony, complete with slimline bistro table and chairs, elegant wrought-iron railings and vibrant blooms is the perfect place to enjoy a morning cup of coffee in the sunshine.

Head to the Med

Why dream of holidays in the sun when you can recreate the atmosphere at home? Paint balcony walls a warm terracotta shade and accessorise with storm lanterns for an ambience that will whisk you away to distant shores, minus the jet lag.

Mount a mirror

Create the illusion of more space by hanging a mirror on the wall of your balcony. Whether it's a fun gallery-wall style collection of hand mirrors or a single large contemporary style, it will reflect the light, make the space look big and amplify all that vibrant foliage.

Become an urban gardener

If you're green-fingered, then why not fit out your balcony with a potting station? To keep it tidy, choose storage units with cupboards underneath to hide away tools and plant feed. Meanwhile, you can fill the display shelves with your prized shrubs – succulent-style plants do particularly well in south and west-facing balconies.

Wire up a rack

Give a wire memo board a new lease of life as a stylish plant hanger. Buy brightly colored pots with hooks attached and create a vibrant display with kitchen herbs and outdoor succulents.

Accessorise with a rug

An outdoor rug is a great way of hiding a tired floor and creates an instant balcony makeover. This geometric monochrome print is elegant and striking, immediately drawing the eye down to the garden below.

Entertain alfresco

A balcony or roof terrace makes a fabulous alfresco entertaining space. For a laid-back affair, opt for a long table with relaxed benches and battery-operated lighting for when the sun goes down. If you're lucky enough to have stunning views, install translucent fencing so you can soak up the skyline over dinner.

Cozy up with a corner sofa

Setting up a corner sofa on your balcony can up the comfort levels in your outside area. Go for a waterproof rattan-effect frame, that way you'll only need to take the cushions in when the weather takes a turn. This large balcony is a great example of organized, open-plan living, with distinctive zones for lounging, dining and serving. 

 

Dazzle with brilliant white

Strip out the color from your balcony for a sun-bleached Mediterranean vibe. Here, soft gray walls offset crisp white seating, while a blonde wood coffee table and woven accessories complete the calm and cool scheme.

Select slimline furnishings

No space? No problem. This slimline wall-hung bistro table is a compact size and folds away when not in use. Made especially for balconies, it slots over railings to make the most of a small outdoor space.

Block out prying eyes

If you live in a built-up area where privacy is a problem, a slatted wood screen can help keep out prying eyes without completely blocking out sunlight. Combine with a matching wooden bench and table, plus patterned cushions in muted tones for a cool, contemporary scheme with boho flourishes.

Go au naturel

Bring in natural textures and a neutral color palette to create a calming hideaway in the midst of the city. Layer rustic wood benches with tactile cushions and linen blankets in sun-bleached hues to continue the au naturel feel. For a pop of sunshine, introduce color organically with miniature lemon trees and yellow blooms, then sit back and soak up the rays...

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