HHello! Kylee here to share a simple makeover for our tiny balcony. When we bought the townhouse two years ago, I was excited about outdoor space for plants. We have a small backyard and an even smaller balcony off the main living area on the second floor, and I wanted to make the balcony inviting despite its size and lack of a view.
Shortly after moving in, we bought a compact table and chairs for the balcony with the hope of spending time outdoors. For a long time the deck felt “blah,” though, and we rarely used it. Because the balcony doesn’t offer a scenic view, I knew it needed to be appealing on its own to draw us outside.
Flowers were one of the first changes. I picked out affordable pots and planted a variety of blooms. Because I can see them from inside the house, I usually remember to water them. Having plants that require attention is a good motivator to step outside more often.
Once the plants were in place, the bright red railings felt too dominant. Inside our home we have cherry hardwood floors and red couches, and the exterior siding and railings are also red, so the color became overwhelming when viewed from indoors. I wanted a more neutral, calming backdrop.
The solution was a roll of bamboo fencing. It partially disguises the red railing and brings a relaxed, tropical feel to the balcony. Bamboo fencing also adds some visual privacy; if privacy is a priority, consider layering the fencing since some rolls have small gaps between canes.
Adding patterned outdoor pillows and a rug instantly lent personality to the space. Small, weather-resistant accents make a balcony feel like an extension of your living room and help it feel cozy and intentional.
I repurposed an old wine rack that used to be a coffee stand; it now holds herbs and fits perfectly on the balcony. The rack keeps pots organized and gives me fresh herbs within reach for cooking.
Since the makeover, the balcony has become a favorite spot for morning coffee and quiet evenings. My husband and I have enjoyed meals outside on warm nights, and the space feels like a natural extension of our home rather than an afterthought. The transformation required minimal effort and a modest budget, but it made a noticeable difference in how often we use the area.
Small spaces can have a big impact when you focus on a few key updates: plants to add life, a simple screen to soften a harsh color or view, and textiles to make the area comfortable. Even small changes can turn an underused balcony into a peaceful retreat.
Thanks for letting me share. Do you have a tiny outdoor space that could use a little update?
Sources:
Outdoor pillows
Bamboo fencing
Table and chairs
See more of my past townhouse posts in my collection.