Your balcony is more than just a simple outdoor space; it’s your space to sip your coffee, catch a sunset, and enjoy a breath of fresh air anytime. Even the smallest balconies can become a favorite spot to unwind and enjoy the Florida sunshine. For residents at Story Sanford, your balcony is your outdoor retreat. This guide will provide you with renter-friendly and stylish ideas to decorate that space your way, creating a personal oasis you’ll never want to leave.
Key Takeaways
- Maximize your space with multi-functional and folding outdoor furniture like a bistro set or a railing-mounted table.
- Create a lush garden feel by using railing planters, vertical gardens, and Florida-friendly potted plants.
- Instantly add ambiance and create a cozy nook with weather-resistant string lights and comfortable outdoor cushions.
- Ensure your design complies with community guidelines by using weather-resistant furniture and keeping the space tidy.
Start with the Foundation: Flooring & Privacy
Two of the biggest challenges for apartment balconies can be finding the best outdoor rugs and finding a privacy screen or shade system, if that’s something you want to add. Tackling these first can make a big impact. The best part? These upgrades are completely renter-friendly and don’t require any permanent changes.
Cover Up Concrete with Renter-Friendly Flooring
Changing the floor is a high-impact first step to making your balcony feel more like an extension of your living room. Think of the concrete as a blank canvas, ready for you to add a pop of your personality.
- Interlocking deck tiles give you a chic, wooden deck look that is incredibly easy to install. Brands like IKEA offer snap-together systems that require no tools and can be removed just as easily when you move.
- A colorful outdoor rug is the quickest way to define your space, add a layer of comfort underfoot, and inject your personal style.
- For a playful, garden-like vibe, consider artificial grass. It’s soft, green, and perfect for creating a relaxed atmosphere.
Create a Secluded Nook with a Balcony Privacy Screen
If you want to add a privacy screen or a bit of shade cover, there are plenty of stylish ways to do just that.
- Bamboo or reed fencing can be unrolled and attached to your railing with zip ties for an instant, budget-friendly privacy screen with a natural vibe.
- Faux ivy or floral panels provide lush, green screening that requires zero maintenance.
- Use taller potted plants, like snake plants or small palms, to create a living, natural barrier that adds both beauty and seclusion.
Furnishing Your Small Balcony for Comfort & Style
When it comes to a small balcony, focus on function and coziness to maximize the space. The key is to choose smart, space-saving outdoor furniture that is both stylish and practical.
Choose Smart, Space-Saving Outdoor Furniture
- The classic bistro set is a timeless solution for a small balcony, offering the perfect spot for dining or coffee for two.
- Folding chairs and tables are a great option because they can be easily stored away when you need more open space.
- A railing-mounted bar or small table is a genius way to add a functional surface without taking up any precious floor space.
- Think multi-function. An ottoman with built-in storage or a sturdy wooden crate can double as a coffee table and extra seating.
Add Comfort with Weather-Resistant Textiles
The right textiles can turn any balcony into a cozy outdoor lounge. Always choose fabrics designed for outdoor use to ensure they can stand up to Florida’s sun and rain.
- Add colorful seat cushions and throw pillows to your chairs to make them more inviting and comfortable for long conversations.
- An outdoor pouf is a versatile piece that can be used as a footrest or for flexible seating when you have guests.
Cultivate Your Balcony Garden Oasis
You don’t need a whole yard to indulge your green thumb. Container gardening is perfect for apartment living, allowing you to create a lush, green escape right outside your door.
The Best Plants for a Sanford, FL Balcony Garden
Living in Florida means you need plants that can handle the heat and sun. Before you buy, take note of how much direct sunlight your balcony gets throughout the day.
- Container gardening allows you to grow a variety of plants in a small space. The key is choosing the right container to ensure proper drainage and room for growth.
- Heat-tolerant plants like hibiscus, pentas, and crotons thrive in the Florida climate. You can also easily grow herbs like rosemary and basil, which love the sun.
Get Creative with Planters & Vertical Space
To maximize your growing area, think vertically. Using your railing and wall space is the best way to pack your balcony with greenery without cluttering the floor.
- Railing planters and flower boxes are perfect for growing flowers and herbs while maximizing floor space.
- Hanging baskets are ideal for trailing plants like petunias or ivy, adding dimension and color at eye level. For more ideas, check out these beautiful ornamental plants that do well in Florida.
- Create a stunning feature wall of green by mounting a trellis or a repurposed wooden pallet and filling it with small potted plants.
Story Sanford Balcony Guidelines: Decorate with Confidence
We love seeing our residents personalize their outdoor spaces! To ensure the community remains beautiful and safe for everyone, we have a few simple guidelines for decorating your balcony.
What’s Approved for Your Outdoor Space
Think of your balcony as an extension of your home’s exterior. Keeping it neat and using appropriate decor helps maintain the community’s beautiful appearance.
- Do use furniture and decor specifically designed for outdoor use that is weather-resistant.
- Do keep the area clean, tidy, and presentable.
- Don’t use indoor furniture, as it can be damaged by the elements.
- Don’t hang clothes, blankets, or towels over the railing.
- Don’t store boxes, trash, or other clutter on your balcony.
Get Inspired by Our Community
Need some ideas to get started? Look no further than our own community. You can visualize the potential of your own balcony by looking at our different layouts. Then, browse our community photo gallery to see how your neighbors have decorated their own outdoor spaces.
For more inspiration, check out our guide full of DIY apartment decor tips.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What furniture works best on apartment balconies?
Focus on multi-functional, foldable, or narrow-profile furniture. Bistro sets, folding chairs, and railing-mounted bars are excellent choices because they provide function without overwhelming the limited floor space.
What are some DIY balcony projects?
Simple DIY projects include creating a vertical herb garden from a pallet, building simple benches from wooden crates with cushions, or painting terracotta pots to match your decor theme.
What are common mistakes to avoid when decorating an apartment balcony?
Avoid using bulky indoor furniture that can be damaged by weather. Don’t overcrowd the floor space, which makes it feel smaller. Finally, always check your apartment community’s guidelines before adding permanent fixtures or large items.
Your Outdoor Oasis Awaits at Story Sanford
Turning your beautiful, functional balcony into a personal retreat that reflects your style is an achievable goal for every resident at Story Sanford. By using space-saving furniture, renter-friendly flooring, and a touch of greenery, you can easily design your outdoor living space your way. Your balcony can be the perfect spot to unwind, entertain, and enjoy the wonderful Florida lifestyle.