Balcony design: ideas and décor inspiration

Some say that a balcony is an extension of the home — and they are absolutely right! So we've come up with a few ideas to help you plan your balcony depending on its size and the style you're after. Looking forward to long lunches on the balcony? Just follow our balcony design ideas and décor inspiration!

If you're looking for inspiration on what types of plants you can grow on the balcony, be sure to consider the type of sun exposure you have. Got a south-facing balcony? Go for heat-loving plants like cacti and certain types of bamboo. Is your balcony facing east or west? Classic options like geraniums and camellias will feel right at home. North-facing balcony? A Japanese maple with rich purple leaves can add a touch of tranquility to your outdoor space.

But you don't necessarily need to fill your balcony with plants. Your balcony, your choice! If you don't have green fingers, you tend to spend a lot of time away from home or if you're just not that into tending to plants, there's no obligation to add greenery to your space. You can always opt for colourful soft furnishings or ornaments like garden statues to decorate your balcony.

Do you spend more time sunbathing or firing up the BBQ? If you have a balcony that stretches over 10 m², you have all the space you need to do it all. Otherwise, you'll have to make a few decisions and choose the options that are most important for you. Yes, we know — easier said than done!

Long summer evenings and sit-down meals

In this case, what you really need is a BBQ and a good garden dining set. But don't go rushing into anything. First of all, you need to consider if it is safe to have a BBQ. While it isn't illegal to barbecue on a balcony, you need to make sure that you have space to do it safely and and that your lease does not prohibit BBQs. A portable or tabletop BBQ can be a good option. The results are (almost) as good as a larger unit and the process is just as fun. When it comes to picking a table, a high table with a set of bar stools is always a popular option. Other great options include big homemade tables made using upcycled pallets or faux rattan furnishings for a seriously modern look. For maximum comfort, don't forget to add a few cushions. If space is tight, a little vintage metal table with foldaway chairs can be a great option.

Quiet times with a good book

In this case, why not choose to fit out your balcony with a swing seat, a big sun lounger or a cosy couch? There's nothing quite like getting stuck into a good book with your favourite drink in hand and your feet up!

Designing a balcony isn't all about furniture. You also need to think about creating the right vibe and there is no end of options here. Here are just a few ideas:

• Extend your home décor out to the balcony.

• Take inspiration from an on-trend design scheme like industrial or Scandi style.

• Pick a decorating theme or one colour to base your design around.

• Come up with something really original and don't worry if everything matches! If you've just moved in, this can be the ideal way to really find your style.

If you're a bit of a night owl, don't forget to add some good outdoor lighting and invest in some mosquito spray for long summer nights on the balcony (you'll thank us later!). Even lighting needs a certain amount of thought. What about adding some twinkling fairy lights to your railing? Or some lights you can secure directly to your parasol? Quick tip: dot about a few rechargeable lamps and you won't need to think about wiring up your lights!

If you want to go one step further, we've got a few final ideas that might just end up stealing the show. At the very least, your balcony is sure to get noticed! Some tricks can only be learnt through experience. Here are a few tips we've picked up along the way:

• Want to create a cohesive look? Go for several shades of the same colour when choosing your cushions, pots or parasol canopy.

• Looking to liven things up? A few colourful flowers and a get-together with friends will sort that right out.

• Looking to make the most of your space? An outdoor storage bench offers the perfect solution. You can use it to store all manner of items from extra cushions to fertiliser, BBQ utensils or even that old tablecloth from your mother-in-law! What could be more practical than that?

Got a taste for decorating and want to move on to the rest of the house? Great! We've got you covered with all sort of tips and tricks to help you freshen up your interior.