The days are getting longer and the warmth of the sun is bringing in the sweet scent of summer. Time to get your outdoor space ready so you can enjoy the warm spring sun in the comfort of your own home. But where do you start? Ask Team Clean will show you how you can transform your private outdoor space into a lush paradise.
You might not be blessed with a big garden and pool, but an unloved balcony or tiny patio, no matter its size, is a tragic sight on gloriously warm days and summer evenings. If your tiny outdoor space currently feels more like a curse than a blessing, we have good news for you. Ask Team Clean will help you to transform that small, blank space with the disappointing view into an irresistible hangout.
Let’s start with some basics. The materials you choose for your furniture are super important and can be the difference between a soggy mess on your balcony and a long-lasting smart investment. Invest in furniture made of materials like resin wicker, wrought iron, teak and plastic, as they can handle most of the elements nature throws at them year-round.
Size matters when it comes to furnishing your tiny space. You don’t want to overwhelm it with an oversized sofa or have a large planter take over your patio. Other than that, we encourage you to get creative! Add tiles or an outdoor rug for some texture, decorate with lights and planters for more ambiance, or make it cozy with throws and pillows.
Aside from the size and material of your furniture, there are a few other elements that will help make your space shine.
Plants are crucial for creating a cozy atmosphere on your balcony or garden and can make you feel like you’re immersed in nature. While many plants can survive both indoors and outdoors, it’s better to err on the side of caution when selecting leafy friends for your outdoor space. Flowers like geraniums and begonias, sturdy plants like bamboo and fresh herbs thrive on most balcony gardens. There are plenty of options for going green, just be mindful of the amount of light and the temperature before making any decisions.
If you live in an apartment building or close-knit community, total privacy may seem near impossible. But there are a variety of methods for creating more personal space for your balcony or small patio. Tall plants and climbing vines are great instant fixes, while creating some much needed shade, as well. Other great options for closing off your space while adding some shade are waterproof textiles and fabric hangings. Privacy screens made of reed or bamboo are another good and affordable solution.
A small space doesn’t have to be a problem if you think outside the box. Use your walls! If you’re desperate for plants, simply stack them and create a vertical garden rather than spreading planters across the floor. You can also add shelves for plants and lights or hang wall slats for added organisation. Foldable furniture or nesting tables and hanging planters are also great space savers. This way, you can enjoy your space without it feeling cluttered.
If you like to enjoy your balcony into the wee hours, lighting is essential. You don't want to rely on harsh overhead light, but create soft-focus lighting with lanterns, candles (real or fake) and string lights. It makes for perfect date night ambiance.
Pro tip: solar light strings are good for the environment and can create a magical glow. Sun-powered lights are available in a wide array of styles and types, from tiny solar powered tea lights to globe-shaped pendant lamps. Just be sure to position the solar panels towards the light to keep them charged.
Once you have all the right pieces, putting together the puzzle of a perfect balcony is a lot easier than you might think.