Top tips for the perfect balcony garden

Lots of the developments listed on HomeViews offer residents a balcony, terrace or patio as standard. And while some of the spaces may be on the smaller side, it’s easy to inject some style into them. We’ve scoured our residents’ reviews and turned to some of the experts so you’ve got a set of handy hints to refer to. Just remember to check with your lease or management company if there are any restrictions before you get started on yours…

1. Be clear on how you want to use the space

Isabelle Palmer, the brains behind The Balcony Gardener, has dedicated her career to making small spaces beautiful. She says it’s all about being clear before you start on how you want to use the area. For example, are you after an al fresco dining space or somewhere peaceful to meditate? Be sure to have a vision before you begin.

If you’re lucky enough to have your own garden, don’t look away! These tips will benefit you, too. You can also take a look at this landscaping at home guide from Groom + Style, which is packed with information from those in the business of shaping green space effectively.

2. Use your balcony walls

A balcony can actually provide more space to play with than an entire courtyard. You can use the walls, railings and even the ceiling to dress the space. Try window boxes (more on these below), hanging plants, lanterns, climbing plants and, if you’re feeling fancy, opt for an entire green wall or living wall, as seen below…

Pinterest from The Balcony Gardener

3. Embrace window boxes 

Window boxes come in so many shapes and sizes you’re bound to find out that suits your space. If you’ve got a tiny balcony with no window just hang yours from the railings, or pop it on the ground around the balcony edge. To learn from the best, watch a short how-to video from The Balcony Gardener’s Isabelle Palmer below…

Isabelle makes planting a window box look easy

Add texture and patterns through plants, cushions and rugs

4. Make the space sensory 

Don’t forget about scent! Flowering plants like nicotiana, stock, four o’ clock and night-blooming jasmine create gorgeous fragrances come nightfall. Herbs are a great option, too. You can keep these indoors or outside, use them for cooking, and enjoy the look and smell of them.

The Gardenista has some great advice on herbs, including what’s best for growing inside.

5. It’s not all about greenery 

Not everyone is drawn to real plants, and there are fantastic faux ones out there now that require zero upkeep, not to mention artificial grass carpets if you want the look of a miniature lawn. Soft furnishings will completely transform your space, as well. A pattered rug, a fluffy throw and a couple of cushions are all you need.

The owners of the below balcony garden built their fence with sections of lattice — all stained opaque black — and boxed it in with frames and posts. They backed the lattice with solid boards to give them privacy, and added a rug and some potted plants.

To see more of our favourite balconies, check out the HomeViews Pinterest board.