How to Design the Perfect DIY Balcony Space on a Budget
Have an under-utilized balcony space? Is it an eyesore? Uncomfortable? Impractical? This post will show you how to create a balcony space you love (and will actually use!), while maintaining your budget.
Make a plan.
Making a well thought-out plan is always the first step in creating a space you love.
1. Map out your space
To create the best plan, you must know how much space you have to work with.
This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just get your dimensions down on paper so you know what you can fit in the space.
Measure each wall and add the measurements to your plan. Include any doorways, openings, or any other unique element that you will be designing around with their specs too.
Even if you have a small balcony, you can make huge impact if you plan it out right.
2. Brainstorm about function
Decide how you want to use your space. This will ultimately determine what type of furniture you’ll need.
A few things to think about:
What’s your goal for the space? How do you plan on using it?
If it’s entertaining, make sure you have enough seating, maybe with a set like this:
Do you want to enjoy your meals outside? A bistro set would be right for you.
If you are lucky enough to have a large balcony and would like to host dinner parties on it, you’ll need a table with enough seating.
Or maybe you’re dreaming about long naps on your balcony (you’re speaking my language now!)
You’ll need some sort of lounge furniture for this, like a couch or sectional.
If space is tight, a great option for lounging is a hanging chair, bench or hammock.
And if it will be a multiple-use space to do several of these things, that’s great too!
Just be sure to plan for it.
A great option would be an outdoor sofa and chairs with a table. You will be able to fit company at the sofa, dine and take all the naps you want, stretched out on your cozy couch.
Knowing this ahead of time will help when you’re looking for outdoor furniture (and will save money by avoiding any wrong purchases.)
3. Add in furniture to your plan
Start to draw in where you think you would want your furniture to be placed.
This may take several tries before you find the perfect layout–that’s ok!
Move your furniture around on paper so you don’t have to physically move it on the balcony. Trust me on this one! Moving a pencil is much easier than moving an outdoor couch.
You can really save on the budget by keeping furniture that you already have (see below for ways to update old furniture!). Add it into your plan to find the perfect placement for it.
And don’t be afraid of moving things around!
I often get stuck in a rut with furniture placement. Sometimes there is just one fabulous spot for a piece, but other times I just get so used to having it in the same spot that I don’t even consider moving it.
Mapping your furniture placement on paper can help to explore other options, and that simple change can drastically improve the flow and function of your space.
Try it out!
How to Update Outdoor Furniture.
The most budget friendly way to update your balcony is to keep your old furniture but give it a new life. There are several ways to do this.
Clean.
You’ll be amazed what a simple cleaning can do. Pieces that have been sitting out in the elements collect dirt, dust, bugs and who knows what else!
Giving them a good scrub down every season is an excellent way to bring new life to your older pieces, especially if they are out in the elements all winter.
I typically just use some soapy water for this job. I have found that a few squirts of dish soap with warm water and some elbow grease go a really long way.
(And while we’re on the subject of cleaning, sweeping your balcony, washing the windows and dusting off the cobwebs will keep your balcony looking fresh and welcoming.)
Cushion covers.
If you have grimy old cushions, you (probably) don’t need to go out and get all new ones. Most cushions are standard sizes, and you can simply purchase new covers for them.
This one simple change will save you from having to spend the money on an entirely new set of cushions (which aren’t cheap), will give your furniture a fresh new look and allow you to inexpensively update the style of your balcony.
Make sure to look for “outdoor cushion covers” which will give you a water-resistant fabric.
Tip #1: If you get cushions with a zipper, keeping them clean is a simple job as you will be able to simply remove the cover and throw it in the wash.
This alone can be a major improvement if it hasn’t been done in a long time.
Tip #2: Store your cushions inside in the winter months if possible, especially if you live in a damp climate. This will help you get the longest life out of them.
Try a Fresh Coat of Paint or Stain.
Applying a new coat of paint or stain is one of the best ways to give your furniture a facelift without spending an arm and a leg.
Make sure you purchase outdoor paint! This will give a finish with the longest life. You’ll probably only need a quart, depending on the surface area being painted, which will only cost a few bucks.
You don’t have to be an expert painter to get this job done.
Just give the surface a quick sand so the paint has something to stick to, apply a coat or two of paint over a protected surface, and consider finishing with a coat of poly to protect it.
Easy peasy.
And you can do it in stages during the week so you don’t have to consume your weekend with this project.
That’s what we did with a hand-me-down IKEA table and chair set: just a few coats of outdoor paint and it’s held up to a lot of use and exposure to the weather on our balcony for the last 5 years.
Add Throw Pillows.
Everyone loves a good karate-chopped pillow.
They add style with that extra layer of cozy and comfy and can even cover up some areas of the furniture you may want to hide.
(Yes, I hide my saggy couch behind throw pillows and you can too! 😂)
4. Source your outdoor furniture (while sticking to the budget)
If you must purchase some outdoor furniture, you have several options to find some really great items without spending a ton of money.
The good news is you have some ballpark dimensions of what you need to look for because you made a plan!
So when you find that perfect piece, you can pick it up right there and then.
Hand-me-downs!
You know your girl loves hand-me-downs.
Getting some old furniture from a friend or family who may be redoing their space or decluttering is a fantastic way to get awesome pieces for free.
We furnished our home almost entirely with second-hand items from friends and family. They gave us beautiful items that are nicer than what we would have purchased on our own (and we didn’t have to spend any money!)
But if this isn’t an option, you’re not out of luck!
Thrift stores and garage sales.
Thrift shops and garage sales are an amazing source to find really great pieces for a low price.
You can find almost-new pieces at garage sales that people don’t have room for anymore, and are happy to give to you for a fraction of the price just to get it out of their home.
The treasures you can find at thrift stores are incredible. In addition, they often donate to the local community and help the environment by giving items a second life.
And if you already know what you’re looking for (because you made a plan), it makes the search that much easier.
Curbside treasures.
Don’t stick your nose up at that furniture on the side of the road! You can find some amazing pieces here.
As we all know, clutter collects over time and people just want it out of their house.
By picking up that road-side find, you save the piece from the dump and therefore are helping the environment, and you give the people who put it peace of mind knowing it’s going to a good home.
You save money AND create an awesome balcony! It’s a win-win-win, folks!
So when you’re driving by that table that looks like everything you need, don’t be afraid to pick it up!!
You can check out marketplace or your local “neighbors” or “tag and trade” page on social media to catch posted curb alerts near you.
Build your own furniture.
Another option is to make your own outdoor furniture.
Even when lumber is as expensive as it currently is, you will still save money by DIYing it, as the price of outdoor furniture is outrageous when you purchase new.
For example, outdoor sectionals can go for upwards of $2,000+. You could spend a small fraction of that by doing it yourself.
This does require tools and some basic knowledge of wood working, but if you are up for the challenge, you can make something completely custom to your space and have the pride of knowing that you made it yourself.
A few things your might need:
- Wood
- Saw (Circular, chop or hand saw, but chop saw is easiest)
- Drill
- Driver
- Palm Sander or Sandpaper and some muscles
- Nails/screws
- Outdoor paint or stain
Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to own all of these tools.
I’ve done many, many projects before I owned a saw of my own by having the wood cut at the place I bought it from (you must go in with a plan and the required lengths) OR by borrowing tools from friends or family.
Or just ask them to cut it for you 😊
You could also rent tools for the day from your local hardware store.
So don’t be discouraged if you see a plan you love but don’t have a workshop full of tools. Anything is possible if you get creative.
Check out our tips on purchasing lumber here.
Make a plan.
You can certainly find plans for DIY furniture all over Pinterest.
You could use these exact plans, or you could alter the dimensions to get a final product that is custom to your space.
What I like to do is find something I love and figure out how to recreate it.
For example, if you take that $2,000 sectional mentioned earlier, you could easily recreate it with some 2×4’s, 1×4’s, a good plan and a little sweat equity.
Not only would it cost just a fraction of the price tag, but you would create it with custom sizing to your space, and you can finish it with any paint or stain you love.
Consider Cushions
Keep in mind that if you want your DIY furniture to have cushions, you will have to purchase or make your own to fit.
When you’re making your plan and deciding on the board lengths, do a quick search and make sure you can get a cushion that size.
Brand new cushions can be on the pricy side, especially if you need a whole set, so take that into consideration when you’re budgeting for your project.
But again, it’ll still be much less expensive than buying new furniture.
5. Add some Privacy
Do you need some added privacy from nosy neighbors? How about to block an ugly view?
There are several ways to do this.
Curtains
One of my favorite privacy solutions is to simply hanging some curtains.
This is an incredibly easy and budget-friendly update that look so beautiful and relaxing as they blow in the breeze.
I LOVE to purchase curtains (both rods and fabric) from IKEA. They are beautiful, durable and will not break the bank.
Be careful installing any curtain rods in high places! Always work with a buddy and maintain your safety.
Read all directions, follow every safety precaution and be aware of your surroundings. You do not want to fall from your balcony!
Seriously.
Vertical garden
A vertical garden is an amazing way to block a view AND create something pretty to look at.
This can be achieved with simple trellising, pallets or wood to create a vertical frame, then add your plants to the spaces in between.
You can do any mix of herbs or veg, or create a beautiful floral display with annuals.
You could also hang some pots from your frame to create a nice garden while distracting from further views.
Privacy panels
You can certainly purchase a privacy screen from a number of places, but DIY is always better for the wallet.
Grab some 2×4’s to create a frame based on the dimensions of the area you are going to cover up.
You can then add fabric, spaced 1×2’s or even flexible branches to secure between the open frame to create as much privacy as you desire.
Plants
You can also create a beautiful screen with plants.
There are several different ways to do this.
A vertical garden, as previously discussed, is a great option, but you could also try tall plants in pots or even planting in the ground on the outside of the balcony.
Of course, if you live on the 14th floor of an apartment building, this is not a practical solution. But if your balcony is on the second story of your home, it could work out very nicely.
It will also save space for furniture on your balcony and will add seasonal interest.
If you decide to put potted plants on your balcony, something to consider is how you will water them.
If you have a water source nearby, great. If you do not, you may not want to trek water back and forth every few days.
For example, we do not (yet) have any plumbing upstairs, so when I put plants on the balcony, I have to bring a watering can up from downstairs, and often I have to make several trips depending on how many plants I have.
For me, this chore is usually worth it as I love to have plants on the balcony, but that’s something you’ll have to decide for yourself.
Self-watering containers will save you from having to water as regularly (depending on your climate).
Some of these planters will allow you to go several weeks before having to water again, but you should keep an eye on the water level to ensure your plants are happy.
6. Decorate
Now that you have your furniture and any potential privacy elements in place, it’s time for the best part:
decorating!
When it comes to decor, I’m all about function AND beauty. I want things to fulfill several different roles or functions in addition to looking good.
This is how you get the biggest bang for your buck, while making your space more functional.
And as far as function goes, there are several things that can help to make your balcony more comfortable (and useable), while adding to it’s beauty.
Functional and beautiful items for your balcony:
Remember that for all of the following items, that they typically go on sale come September when the summer is coming to an end (with the exception of blankets– look for those in the spring!). This is the time to buy for the best deals.
Blankets.
There’s nothing better than enjoying a fall afternoon cuddled up on the balcony.
A blanket will not only help to keep you warm and comfortable but will also provide an added layer and sense of coziness to your overall look.
Drape one over the couch or arm chair.
Do be aware that if you plan on leaving it outside and in the elements, it may get dirty and dusty.
You really don’t want to use your great-grandmother’s hand-knit heirloom blanket for this purpose! Purchase a machine washable blanket that you can easily clean as needed.
Plants.
We already spoke about some options with privacy plants on your balcony, but there are other ways that plants both serve a purpose on a balcony AND provide that beauty we all want.
Grow some food.
If the only outdoor space you have is your balcony, you can utilize the space to grow some herbs or veg.
Most herbs do wonderfully in pots, and they’re easy to grow.
Some of my favorites are:
- Mint
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Thyme
- Sage
- Lavendar
Starting from seeds is the most budget-friendly way to have a lush garden.
As far as vegetables and fruit go, you have to be careful with varieties.
Look on your seed package or plant tag for things like “great for containers” “container garden” “determinite” or “compact”. These keywords let you know that they will stay small and fit nicely in a pot.
Compact strawberry and tomato plants are a great option for pots and even hanging baskets.
If you plan it out right, you could have your own food source right there on your balcony, without taking up a ton of space, while adding that wonderful neutral green element.
Utilize vertical space with hanging baskets.
Hanging baskets are wonderful on a balcony. They place the plants up at eye level where you can see them drape down gracefully while keeping them off the floor of your balcony, saving some space.
Blooming annuals are perfect for hanging baskets, as they will provide the most visual interest.
Some great varieties for hanging baskets include:
- Petunias
- Verbena
- Begonias
- Fuschia
- Fern
- Lobelia
- Impatients
Money Saving Tip: When purchasing annuals, choose a pot with multiple plants inside it.
When you look at the base of the plant, sometimes there will be multiple stems coming up from the root. These root balls can easily be separated into more than one plant.
So you purchase the one pot, but you’re ultimately buying several plants that can be spread out among your planters.
Keep Mosquitoes at Bay with Citronella.
Adding in one (or several) citronella plants to your balcony is a fantastic idea to keep the bugs away.
These are not only attractive and unique-looking plants but they also provide a service by repelling mosquitos.
Rugs.
An outdoor rug can be a wonderful addition to your balcony. It brings weight and a softness to your outdoor space and extra texture and pattern.
Make sure you purchase an outdoor rug. These repel water, as opposed to indoor rugs which would
collect every bit of rain, dirt and dust.
Something to consider here is that rugs can still collect water if they are exposed to the elements. Even outdoor rugs will collect some water, especially if there’s no way for it to easily drain.
For example, a balcony that’s over another room as opposed to a deck has spaces between the boards for water to drain can present an issue if you put out a rug.
Especially if you live in a damp climate, there is a chance that the water could collect in the rug and seep down into the room below.
In this case, a rug may not be the best choice for you, but there are plenty of other ways to bring that coziness to your balcony.
Pillows.
I’ve already discussed my love for a karate-chopped, outdoor cushion-covered pillow.
They are comfortable for that nap session, or hanging out with a book or some friends, and make any outdoor
furniture look so much better.
Pile them on top!
Candles.
Candles on the balcony are wonderful. They really set the mood.
How about setting a mood AND keeping those pesky bugs away?! Grab some citronella candles to go with your plants!
BUT remember fire safety! Never, ever leave a candle unattended.
String lights.
Everyone loves a nice set of string lights to provide just enough lighting.
Does anything scream summer more than this?? They do such a nice job at setting a mood.
But beware, the bugs may be attracted to the lights!
If this is an issue for you, (anyone else always the victim of mosquitos? They say it’s because we’re sweet 😆) you may want to leave this addition out.
Stick with your citronella!
Recap.
Everyone should be able to enjoy a cozy and beautiful balcony, no matter what your budget is.
Implementing these simple steps and tips will help you to create the balcony of your dreams without
breaking the bank.
- Map out your space
- Think about function
- Add furniture to your plan
- Update or source your furniture
- Add privacy elements
- Decorate!
We hope you enjoy your balcony as much as we love ours!
Questions? We’re here!
Leave a comment below and tell us some of your favorite money saving tips and your favorite balcony activity.
