Furnishing your balcony: 12 tips for a cosy outdoor space

A balcony — however small — is precious outdoor space. With the right furniture, clever layout and a few atmospheric touches, you can turn even the tiniest balcony into a place where you love to spend time. Whether you have a narrow city balcony or a spacious apartment terrace: these 12 tips will help you make the most of your outdoor space.

1. Measure your balcony before you buy anything

It sounds obvious, but it's the most common mistake: ordering furniture that doesn't fit. Measure your balcony (length, width and the free space after opening the door) and draw a simple floor plan. Keep at least 60 cm of walking space free.

2. Choose furniture that fits the space

For a small balcony (up to about 4 m²), folding furniture is ideal. A bistro set — a round table with two folding chairs — is the classic balcony solution. You fold the chairs away when you're not using them.

Do you have more space (6+ m²)? Then a compact 4-person garden set or even a small lounge set will fit.

3. Think vertically

On a balcony, floor space is scarce, but wall space is plentiful. Use the walls and railings:

• Wall shelves for plants and candles
• Hanging pots on the railings for herbs or flowers
• A folding wall table that you fold down when needed

4. Choose the right parasol

Not every parasol fits on a balcony. A standard cantilever parasol is too large and too heavy. Better options:

• Balcony parasol — a semicircular parasol that stands flat against the wall. Takes minimal space.
• Small pole parasol (Ø 200-250 cm) — fits through the hole in a bistro table.
• Shade cloth — stretched between the wall and railing. Takes up no floor space.

5. Lay down an outdoor rug

An outdoor rug transforms a bare concrete balcony into a cosy space. Choose a rug that's slightly smaller than your balcony so it doesn't look like a runner. Outdoor rugs are made from UV-resistant synthetic material and can be left outside.

6. Create atmosphere with lighting

Mood lighting makes the difference between a balcony where you sit during the day and one where you want to stay in the evening. Options:

• String lights along the railing or above the balcony
• LED candles on the table or in lanterns (safe, no open flame)
• Solar garden lights that charge during the day

7. Use cushions and throws for comfort

Balcony furniture is often compact and minimalist. Make it comfortable with decorative cushions and a throw for cool evenings. Choose weather-resistant cushions or bring them inside in the evening.

8. Choose plants that can handle wind and sun

A balcony is often windier and sunnier than a sheltered garden. Choose robust plants:

• Sun: lavender, olive tree (in pot), rosemary, succulent plants
• Shade: ferns, hosta, hydrangea, ivy
• Windy: ornamental grasses, bamboo (in pot), box

Use pots of different heights for a playful effect. Large pots on the ground, small pots on a stool or shelf.

9. Make use of storage space

A storage bench or chest serves double duty: you can sit on it and store cushions, garden tools or a picnic blanket inside. Some garden benches have built-in storage — ideal for a balcony.

10. Choose a colour palette and keep it simple

A small balcony can quickly look cluttered. Stick to 2-3 colours that go well together. Popular combinations:

• Natural + white + green — calm, Scandinavian
• Anthracite + ochre + wood — warm, modern
• Blue + white + natural — Mediterranean, fresh

11. Privacy on the balcony

Sitting close to your neighbours? Create privacy without making the balcony dark:

• Balcony screen made of reed, bamboo or fabric along the railing
• Tall plants such as bamboo or ornamental grasses as a natural screen
• A shade cloth that also provides privacy protection

12. Keep it low-maintenance

Your balcony is small — you want to avoid major upkeep. Choose materials that require little attention:

• Aluminium furniture — rust-proof, lightweight, a quick wipe and it's clean
• Plastic pots — light and frost-resistant, unlike terracotta
• Weather-resistant cushions — or bring them inside in the evening

Need inspiration?

Browse our collection of bistro and balcony sets, balcony parasols and outdoor rugs for everything you need to furnish your balcony. Unsure what will fit? Get in touch — our experts are happy to help you think it through.