So you’re in a new apartment or condo and you need some small balcony patio furniture ideas for 2022 to make the best use of your limited space. We’re here to help! From planning your layout to guiding you on what materials weather best in your environment, we’ve got the answers. Let’s review some things to consider when purchasing patio furniture for your balcony or small patio space.
Plan Your Balcony Furniture Layout
Consider what you envision the balcony being used for. Is it a place where you intend to spend time entertaining or is it more of a quiet oasis for your early morning coffee (bistro set)? Are you the type of person who could sunbathe for hours on end or are you looking for an alternative to dining inside? Perhaps you simply desire a comfortable spot to spend time on your phone or tablet. Plan your small balcony patio furniture around what the space will be used for most. Be realistic! Are you really throwing a fabulous dinner party every weekend or should you plan a versatile space that can serve a multitude of purposes?
Avoid picking up random patio furniture pieces at the local big box store because they’re on sale (how convenient, you were there already buying batteries, right?) and be thoughtful about planning. Be realistic with the size and shape of your small balcony or patio and the furniture that it can accommodate. Measure it out, draw the shape on a piece of paper (making sure to note where the door is situated) and play around with furniture shapes in the form of circles, squares, and rectangles. For example, if you have a long, narrow balcony, small round tables (vs tables with corners) are easier to navigate around to avoid bruised shins.
Speaking of navigation, how will traffic flow throughout the balcony or small patio? Don’t overcrowd your space and make it difficult to maneuver around. If guests have to slide sideways and brush noses to get past each other than maybe you need less furniture.
Pro Tip: Consider tables and chairs that can be folded and stowed away easily to ensure a versatile space.
Consider Your Environment
Do you live in a seasonal area where your balcony time is dictated by the weather, or can you use the space all year round? If you live in a particularly harsh environment with extreme winter weather, you might consider recycled plastic patio furniture that won’t fade, crack, or splinter and offers a 20-year warranty. If you are fortunate to live in a coastal area where sea salt can corrode and discolor furniture then you might choose stainless steel or a dense hardwood like teak. Advances in synthetic wicker materials have made it possible to achieve a classic woven look in just about any environment. Beyond choosing small balcony patio furniture for its aesthetics, make sure you understand what it’s made from and how that material will weather in your area.
Another important consideration: what part does the movement of the sun play in how / when you’ll want to be outside? If your small balcony or patio gets full sunshine for most of the day then you’ll likely want to consider a small patio umbrella(s), especially if you are using a dining table. Which makes it super important to choose a dining table with an umbrella hole vs. one without.
Pro Tip: Add a patio umbrella light for perfect nighttime illumination.
Conversely, if your small balcony or patio space is partially or completely shaded, add a patio heater to extend your time outside. Consider a propane-powered tabletop or freestanding patio heater, or possible a ceiling mounted electric heater, depending on the size and shape of the balcony or patio.
Decide On A Style
Some people desire for the style of their small balcony furniture to be an extension of the taste showcased throughout their home, or reflective of the architecture that surrounds it. Others wish for their outdoor space to mimic a far-away resort or vacation spot that they have visited so it can emulate the joy they feel when visiting there. Still others might choose a retro look that emulates the romanticism of the period in which the original furniture was produced. Beyond all else, make it your own. The furniture and décor on your balcony or small patio should reflect your personality and create an oasis of comfort in which to relax and enjoy. Make this space your new favorite room of the home.
Pro Tip: An outdoor area rug makes any small patio or balcony instantly more cozy and can really tie your décor together. Consider carefully if you have small pets that might be tempted to use it for, uh…convenience purposes.
Small Balcony Patio Furniture Recommendations
Small Balcony Folding Dining Table
Small Balcony End Table
Small Balcony Bistro Set
Small Balcony Lounge Set
Small Balcony Patio Heater
Small Balcony Storage
Small Balcony Planter Box with Privacy
