How to turn a 5 sq. m balcony into a cozy relaxation area: you will regret that you did not do it earlier

Do you look at your balcony and see nothing but a pile of old skis, a dusty bike and a couple of wilted cacti?

But in just one weekend, this “cemetery of unnecessary things” can become a place where you can run away with a book and coffee, while your neighbors envy you through the wall.

Designers claim that even 5 squares can be turned into an oasis if you don’t make the fatal mistakes that 90% of people make.

The more furniture, the more comfortable

An armchair, a table, a flower stand, a hammock… Stop! On a 5 sq. m balcony, such a set will turn the space into a labyrinth.

Instead, opt for something that can be transformed: a bench with built-in storage, a fold-out table, or a hanging chair that doesn't steal floor space.

Gender is your business card

Polka-dot linoleum and cracked tiles will kill even the boldest ideas. Lay the floor with moisture-resistant laminate "under the terrace" or rubber tiles with a wood texture - this will create the illusion of a continuation of the room.

Designer Anton Belov advises: "Use a rug with a 3D effect, for example, with a grass or sea wave print. This will add depth and distract attention from the modest size."

Cover everything with plastic and forget about it

Blind plastic panels will turn the balcony into a stuffy chamber. If the budget is limited, decorate the walls with frost-resistant wallpaper with a vertical print - they will "raise" the ceiling.

Light versus tightness

One light bulb under the ceiling is a guarantee of a gloomy atmosphere. Place garlands around the perimeter, wall sconces with warm light and a couple of LED strips under the railings.

Important: Avoid cold white light - it makes the space lifeless.

Designer Karina Mironova notes: “Spotlights above the reading area and shelf lighting will visually divide the balcony into functional zones without partitions.”

Flowers wherever there is space

Pots with geraniums on the floor, windowsill, railings... This approach turns the balcony into a jungle. Use vertical gardening: hanging planters, multi-level shelves or a phytowall of succulents.

Kazan resident Maria placed an old ladder on the wall, attaching pots of petunias to it - the result was a "flower waterfall" that did not take up a single centimeter of the floor.

Secret vaults

You can store things on the balcony aesthetically. Build boxes into the bench, use poufs with folding lids or hang organizers on the door.