If you are fortunate enough to have a bit of extra space in the way of a balcony for your apartment, consider yourself lucky. This added square footage is perfect for additional living space, room for a family pet, or simply the ideal space to read a book while relaxing and watching the sun rise while drinking a cup of coffee. With so many uses, it’s important that you take the time to decorate your apartment balcony like you would the inside of your home.

Decorating your balcony should be done with precision and diligence. Far too often, people simply use their balcony as a place for old boxes or used furnishings. However, giving special attention and care to your balcony can turn it into one of the most exciting areas in your apartment.

Here are some tips for decorating your apartment balcony to ensure that you make the most of the space.

Consider The Size

One of the first considerations that you’ll want to make while decorating your apartment is the overall size. Keep in mind that utilizing the space that you have will make for a big difference as you start to look at your balcony as a whole. Add too much and the space will look overcrowded. Don’t add enough and the space will look cheap and under-considered during the design process.

To make sure that you have enough room for everything:

• Add a large seating arrangement like a couch or a loveseat that takes up majority of the space.
• Place end tables on each side of the loveseat, or add a bigger coffee table in the middle of the balcony if you have the space.
• Hang plants or lights to save valuable floor space.

By keeping these secrets to the equation in mind, you’ll be able to formulate the perfect space for your balcony.

Follow The Rules

You are going to have a lot of options when it comes to what you put on your balcony. That might includes plants, a seating arrangement, lights, and more. However, keep in mind that you likely don’t have complete free range over what you put outside. In fact, your apartment’s HOA will typically regulate what is allowed on the balcony. Make sure that you know these rules before you start decorating your outdoor space.

Have A Theme

Now that you’ve moved onto the decorating portion, the fun begins because you get to select a theme for your space. Are you looking for a tranquil Zen garden that will allow you to mediate? Maybe you prefer a more modern feel that is perfect for get-togethers with all of your friends? Or it’s possible that a relaxing place to read books is all you are looking for.

Whatever it may be, plan in advance with the theme you want for your apartment balcony. In doing so, you’ll have a more distinct feel to the space, rather than a bunch of odds and ends lying around.

Your balcony can be one of the most enjoyable places in your apartment. To ensure that you are getting the most out of the space, keep these tips in mind as you are decorating your apartment balcony.