There's value to a balcony that goes way beyond the square footage it adds to your apartment. Perhaps that's because it opens your living space up to the outside world, whether bustling city streets or manicured suburban landscapes. Or maybe it's because it feels good to have a secure retreat from which to observe your corner of the world.
When warmer seasons come around, there are plenty of balcony ideas to enhance your summer so you're getting the most out of your apartment balcony. Your balcony is the perfect way to embrace the sunny seasons, like summer.
You don't have to plan a camping or hiking trip to enjoy the benefits of outdoor eating in warmer weather. You can shed your stress levels and calm your moods by stepping onto the balcony and whipping up your favorite summer dish.
Whether you have enough space to create a bistro for a small gathering or can only squeeze in a couple of chairs and a folding table, you can soak up the sun and enjoy the summer breezes while you eat. A balcony garden is great for growing ingredients to cook light and refreshing food in a small space.
If you want to ease your way into a new day, a morning java on the balcony is hard to beat. Take in the scents of a fresh brew, watch the sunrise and enjoy a crisp pastry. This lounge space is the perfect way to start off a summer day before the heat takes over.
Perhaps the most obvious way to enjoy your outdoor balcony, during the summer, is by soaking up the sun. Enhance your enjoyment by adding some comfortable seating, such as a hammock or a chaise lounge.
You could also incorporate some string lighting on the balcony railing to create a soothing ambiance and play some relaxing music to complete the atmosphere. With these simple additions, your balcony is transformed into an outdoor oasis and can become the perfect place to enjoy a summer day.
While apartment balconies are often relatively small, you may be able to grow your own urban garden in the warm summer weather. It's a good idea to start small with a few plants, have a few successes (and learning failures), and then, gradually add to your outdoor greenery.
Things like small potted plants, hanging plants, bamboo fencing, vertical planters and a vegetable garden are all sure to add green life to your balcony space. Your plants not only add to your summer enjoyment on the balcony, but they also help bring the outdoors in. But before you dust off your green thumb, check with your landlord to see what's allowed and what will flourish in the warm weather.
Nothing says hosting friends over like summer. Balconies, in the summertime, are a great way to entertain and host friends. We can't really explain it, but drinks and food just taste better outside, and conversations flow better outside when the weather's nice.
Last, but certainly not least, enjoy one of the main benefits of a balcony – the view. Balcony views are special because they provide an outlook on your environs from above.
You may not have a stunning mountain vista or water lapping in a lake below, but there's something unique about a balcony perspective. You see further and become a quiet observer rather than a participant in the scene. When the weather gets warmer, there's no excuse not to take in the view and enjoy the warm weather.
So, an apartment balcony is what you make of it. You can eat and drink outdoors, build your relaxation hangout, check on the weather or simply delight in the view.
Apartment balconies are great outdoor spaces for workouts. With nice summer weather, comes a great opportunity to do yoga, pilates or other workout training that's small outdoor-space friendly.
Incorporating outdoor workouts on your apartment balcony can not only help you stay fit and healthy but also provide a change of scenery and fresh air that can improve your overall well-being during the summer.
Spending time outdoors has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, making it a great way to unwind after a long day or week. When the weather is warmer, you're likely to improve your mental health with the fresh air and personal space a balcony provides.
By creating a space that feels uniquely yours and reflects your personality, you can transform your apartment balcony into a cozy and inviting space that you'll love spending time in. This can help you feel more connected to your home and create a sense of relaxation and enjoyment whenever you're on your balcony.
Additionally, being in a space that you find aesthetically pleasing can positively impact your mood and well-being, making your summer even more enjoyable.
Working during the summer can be a bummer. With an apartment balcony, the change of scenery can help break up the monotony of working indoors, making it easier to focus and be productive.
Additionally, being outside can provide inspiration and creativity that may be harder to find in a traditional indoor workspace. If you have a flexible work schedule, working on your apartment balcony can allow you to take advantage of the nice weather and enjoy the outdoors while still being productive.
An apartment balcony provides a free and convenient way to socialize with friends and family without having to spend money on expensive entertainment or dining out. Instead, you can enjoy drinks and snacks on your balcony while taking in the nice weather and views.
Spending time on your balcony can also help reduce your energy bills by allowing you to turn off indoor lights and air conditioning and rely more on natural light and fresh air. This can also help reduce your carbon footprint.
Your apartment balcony can be a valuable and versatile asset that can enhance your summer in many ways. From hosting gatherings with friends and expressing your personal style to working and exercising outside, there are countless opportunities to enjoy this outdoor space and make the most of the season.
By incorporating some of the ideas discussed above, you can create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere that aligns with your lifestyle and supports your goals.
Still on the hunt for an apartment with an outdoor space? Start here.
Wesley is a Charlotte-based writer with a degree in Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina. Her background includes 6 years in non-profit communication and 4 years in editorial writing. She's passionate about traveling, volunteering, cooking and drinking her morning iced coffee. When she's not writing, you can find her relaxing with family or exploring Charlotte with her friends.