Small outdoor spaces, whether a balcony or a patio, have so much potential to be cosy, comfy and inviting. I often talk about the Danish term hygge for inside the home but it’s equally important to create this feeling of hygge outdoors. Being able to spend time outdoors is special so if you have your own space, no matter how tiny, you can make it a warm and cosy oasis.
I look at my outdoor area as an extension of my indoor space and I believe it should be treated as another room in the home because that’s exactly what it is. It’s worth putting in the same energy, creativity and love as you would to decorate any room. Sometimes though, it can feel tricky to bring a small outdoor space to life but it’s entirely possible.
Whether you have a small balcony, a mini patio or a tiny sliver of outdoor space to call your own, these ideas will help make it very cosy and stylish. But most importantly, once you embrace a few of these ideas, you’ll probably end up using your outdoor space much more and that can only be a good thing.
Ideas to cosy up a small balcony or patio
Include lots of cosy textures
The secret to any cosy, cohesive, hygge home is texture – lots of it! And a small outdoor space is no exception. Not only do textures make your space more comfortable, but they also look so stylish. So, layer up on those textiles like blankets, sheepskins, cushions and more. This will also mean that you can use your balcony long into the evenings instead of coming in the moment the sun goes down. In addition to textiles, consider a mix of materials like stone, rattan, wool, terracotta and more in your decor.
Add some greenery to your railings
Most balconies have metal railings and sometimes even patios do. This can look a little cold so why not hang some planters filled with gorgeous greenery. There are plenty of railing planter ideas to pick from as they come in different textures, materials, styles and sizes. They’re especially great for teeny-tiny spaces as they don’t take up any floor space yet allow you to have lots of plants and flowers.
Add some lighting
Lighting creates an effortlessly cosy mood and it’s practical too. A string of fairy lights, portable lights and candles all work well in an outdoor space. I especially love portable lights as many come with dimmers so you can set the mood according to what you like. And they are equally handy to use indoors so they’ll be in use all year round. But any kind of lighting will add so much to a small outdoor space and once again, allow you to use the space long into the night.
Lay down some decking
Tiles and decking aren’t just for patio gardens, they work really well in small balconies and tiny outdoor spaces, even if it’s just a tiny space. They add personality to the space and make the space feel more cohesive. Also, the way the tiles or decking are laid can help make a small outdoor space look bigger.
Add a rug
Sometimes it’s not possible to update the floor so lay down a rug instead or if possible, do both. Rugs add texture and warmth to an outdoor space, and they add interest too. Rugs are also a great way to cover a floor that you don’t like, especially if updating it isn’t an option.
Use the balcony walls
In a small space, it’s important to maximise the space you do have. And in a small balcony or patio this could mean using the walls for plants, lighting or even for hanging up blankets and other textiles while not in use. All these things will add even more texture and warmth while being a great way to make the most of the space.
image credits: my scandinavian home | fantastic frank | alvhem | source unknown | alvhem | bloggaibagis | house of beatniks
The post tips and ideas to cosy up a small balcony or patio appeared first on DIY home decor – Your DIY Family.
