For most people, apartment living doesn’t necessarily mean outdoor space for luxuries like a shed or a swimming pool. But if your room comes with a balcony or terrace, rejoice! You have your own little piece of nature that you can customize just the way you want. A little attention to detail (and of course our expert styling tips!) can transform a small, drab balcony into your very own outdoor oasis.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when remodeling your outdoor space.

Start with furniture: The first thing you’ll probably want to add is some furniture. But remember that whatever you put on your balcony is exposed to the elements. Materials like resin wicker, wrought iron, teak, and plastic can withstand most what Mother Nature throws at them.
Decorate with Plants: Next, it’s time to add some elements that will help make your balcony shine. Plants are great for sprucing up the space. Flowers like geraniums and begonias, hardy plants like bamboo, and fresh herbs thrive in a balcony garden. The list of outdoor plants is long – just consider the hardiness zone you live in and how much light your balcony will get before you make a decision.

Invest in Privacy: Finally, consider whether you want privacy in your outdoor space and how much of it you want. While shared living spaces like condos and apartments can make it difficult to achieve complete privacy, there are a variety of balcony ideas you can use to wave goodbye to nosy neighbors and claim more personal space. Tall plants, vines, and shrubs are great instant fixes. Weatherproof textiles and fabric hangings are great for adding a little enclosure to your space and also for some much-needed shade. You can even buy metal and bamboo privacy screens.
By now you probably realize that there are countless balcony ideas that you can incorporate, even for the smallest of spaces. Ready to start? Check out the charming examples below.