33 Balcony Decorating Ideas to Elevate Your Alfresco Experience

Create the ultimate entertaining escape by putting a bar cart out on your balcony. It doesn't have to be a permanent feature, but if you're shopping for a new one for your interior, consider buying one with wheels on the bottom (as seen here in designer Ashley Gilbreath's home) for easy transport to the outside.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

In this child's bedroom, designer Gillian Segal added lightweight poufs by the door to the balcony for easy carrying inside and out. If your outdoor space isn't large enough for full-size chairs or you don't want to leave anything outside, consider this balcony decorating idea.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

Though you'll hopefully spend most of your time on the balcony, you should still consider a balcony decorating idea that shows off its exterior. Make passersby jealous by planting climbing vines and flowering bushes below your balcony, as seen in this Gillian Segal home.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

To create cozy staycation vibes on your balcony, layer a lot of different textures in your furniture and outdoor accessories. Designer Jen Samson knew this Lake Tahoe vacation house had to be all about the view, so the comforting look and feel of the outdoor lounge area provides instant R & R.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

In the same lake house as above, Samson ensured that the outdoor furniture matched the overall aesthetic of the interior. The smooth lines, light wood, and silhouette of the chairs and table in the outdoor section can be found in almost every room.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

Does your balcony offer stellar views of sunrises or sunsets? Factor that into your balcony decorating ideas. Designer Kathleen Walsh explains that “lovely west-facing sunsets made the apartment especially tempting” to her clients, who set up a lounge area in their outdoor space to take full advantage of that golden light.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

Sure, your balcony may be on the smaller side, but that shouldn't stop you from getting those oversized pieces of furniture if you really want a cozy spot. “What do they say? 'Go big or go home'? Well, we go big and stay home and suggest maximizing your space with oversized chairs, ottomans, and pillows that you can sink into that feels just right,” designer Alexis Vitale says. “Throw out the old rules, because sometimes we just need to feel at peace, and what better way than to enjoy your outdoor living comfortably.”

We suggest not thinking of your balcony as a separate entity altogether—simply consider it a fun, outdoor extension of your home. “Create special nooks for winding down after a long day, whether it be alfresco dining spaces or just a great lounge space for family and friends to relax and unwind,” designer Amy Kalikow suggests. “Keep the design simple but special and unique, focusing on how the space will be used, so you can make the most out of your outdoor sanctuary.”

If your space allows for it, incorporate a chic fireplace to your balcony for warmth and added style. Designer Christine Vroom knew her clients wanted the ultimate beach house experience, so along with the striped umbrella, exposed wooden elements, and creamy color palette, she added this sleek fireplace to give them the feeling of having a bonfire on the beach from the comfort of their own home.

Possibly the largest drawback to having an outdoor space like a balcony is that you may not be able to use it year-round. However, it's possible to include a solution in the design of your balcony, whether that be closing off the direct outdoor space with walls and window screens or adding a fire pit for warmth.

“The client wanted a spot for hanging out year-round—we got them a fire pit that ran off a propane tank and some cozy chairs perfect for curling up on any night of the year!” Amelia Strat, one half of the design duo at Kroesser+Strat Design, explains. “Within such a linear, architectural space that's also surrounded by so much concrete and metal and glass, these woven chairs were just the perfect amount of softness for this urban spot.”

Follow in designer Laetitia Laurent's footsteps and make stepping out on your balcony feel like you're entering paradise. “This balcony was inspired by the contemporary resort style of Miami,” she says. This balcony decorating idea mixes natural and luxe elements with modern touches to create the relaxed feel of this balcony space. “The resulting vibe is both trendy, edgy South Florida while remaining cozy, comfortable, and inviting.”

If your balcony is covered, or you're considering covering it, add a ceiling fan to the design, so it's usable even on those extra hot days. Designer Liz Williams wanted to ensure that this tight area outside of her client's beach house was somewhere they'd actually hang out, especially since it's a small space.

Many details come into play when designing a balcony that feels like an extension of your home, and the light fixture is one of them. Choosing a statement light, as designer Margaret Donaldson of MDI Luxury Design puts it, “creates ambiance and enhances the atmosphere of outdoor entertaining areas.”

Another drawback to an outdoor space? The bugs and critters that may also call it home. When designing a balcony, consider making it a screened-in getaway to keep the creepy-crawlies outside and away from you. Michelle Vassallo of MV Architects did so in her clients' home when she added a second-story balcony, ensuring they could use the area without fear of mosquito bites.

Whether your outdoor space is covered or uncovered, the pieces you use to decorate your balcony should be a little more rugged than what you'd choose for your living room. After all, you don't want your table to fly away on a windy day or your chairs to quickly fade in the sun. “Materials must be durable so that accessories and upholstery stand up to the elements and time,” designer Morgan Newfield explains.

Window boxes are your friends! A small planter of flowers—like this one on a balcony by Gary McBournie—will instantly upgrade your entire exterior. This balcony decorating idea can be even more stunning than using potted plants since they're at eye level where you can really appreciate them.

If you're renovating your home's balcony, it's the perfect time to upgrade some of the builder-grade features, like basic trim, to something custom or special. Here, design duo Ben and Erin Napier added an intricate gingerbread-style railing to their porch. It's a period detail with a lot of charm.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

The sitting area you have outside should be just as inviting as the one inside—even if it's smaller. Decorate your balcony with creature comforts like pillows, throws, and candles. This space by Marguerite Rodgers incorporates balcony decorating ideas that emphasize coziness and conversation, like an outdoor couch, soft blankets, and mood lighting.

Lending your balcony space a sense of calm and seclusion doesn't have to be expensive (or permanent). Instead of installing a screen or hanging curtains, hang oversized hanging planters in any opening, as designer Dee Murphy did here. Not only will they add some much-needed greenery to your space, but they'll effectively block any prying eyes from peeking in.

TOUR THE ENTIRE HOME

If your balcony has enough space, carve out two separate areas to double its functionality. This roomy, L-shaped balcony designed by Keesha Franklin of Halden Interiors features a separate lounge and eating area, so it has an outdoor living room and a dining room that overlooks the view.