As the weather starts to warm up, we turn our minds to outdoor living. A morning coffee, an afternoon curled up with a good book, a sunset cocktail, a long lunch with friends or a family dinner - all of these simple pleasures are often much better enjoyed in the great outdoors. But not all of us are living the dream on a half-acre block - so how do you make the most of a more compact outdoor space? Enter our top balcony furniture styling tips!

 

Tip 1: Choose the right pieces

Regardless of how large or small your space is, it's always important to think about scale. A grand dining table or lounge setting might just squeeze into your space, but will it be functional? And will it have the relaxed vibe you're looking for, or will it feel cramped and stuffy? Even if it's the setting of your dreams, if the scale isn't right for your space, it just won't work. This is why it's important that your space comes first - everything else is secondary.

First, think about how you see yourself using the space, both now and into the future. If you want a space that's perfect just for you, a comfy occasional or hanging chair and a side table could make quite a visual statement while creating the perfect little solitary nook. It will also leave you with space to move, or to create a second zone if you have a little extra room. If something a little more social appeals, there are plenty of lightweight and space-conscious options designed as the perfect courtyard or balcony furniture pieces. Try a two-seater setting, a pair of sun loungers, or even a compact bar table setting depending on how wide your space is.

 

Tip 2: Accessorise well

Once you've chosen your furniture, it's time to get styling. You can decorate your outdoor area in the same style as your home's interior so it acts as a true extension of your living space, or alternatively, you can choose an entirely different scheme so that it feels distinct. We love a lush, tropical resort feel for the upcoming summer entertaining season - think woven rattan and natural tones mixed with plenty of breezy white - but whatever look you choose to go with, you'll find the perfect pieces to suit your space in-store. Choose your textiles from our range of outdoor rugs, ottomans, water-resistant cushions and chairpads which will add colour and comfort to your space. Add a level of sophistication with our range of outdoor wall decor. We've even got outdoor candles in summery scents designed to deter mosquitoes - perfect for those upcoming balmy evenings!

 

Tip 3: Add a splash of green

At Flower Power, we believe no space is truly complete without a splash of green. We are The Garden People, after all! For a balcony, there are a few considerations you need to keep in mind - see here for a list of balcony-appropriate flowering plants, but here are some general rules of thumb:

  • It's really important that you think honestly about the amount of sun, shade and wind your balcony or courtyard gets, and choose plants to suit the conditions - they won't thrive otherwise
  • Evergreen plants will give you the best bang for your buck in terms of all-year impact - even better if they're dwarf varieties, which will give you the look you want in a more compact and manageable form
  • Avoid anything prickly or thorny in a tight space - nobody wants their skin or clothes to get caught!

Your stunning foliage plants will need pots, so we suggest you choose a lightweight cement or fibreclay option from our outdoor range. They'll be sturdy enough to stand up to the elements, yet lightweight enough to carry up stairs and live comfortably on your balcony. Our Supersoil Professional Indoor, Balcony and Hanging Basket Potting & Planting Mix is ideal for keeping plants happy when they're living on your balcony.

 

Note: Flower Power's outdoor furniture and accessory range is recommended for outdoor undercover use only. Please follow the care instructions printed on the tag.