Photography By Valeria Wilcox
Private outdoor space is a dream come true for any urban city dweller. No matter how restricted your outdoor area is, there are plenty of design opportunities to personalize and enhance this space. We took a peek at a downtown Toronto balcony styled by LUX Design to get some small-space patio inspiration. This colourful balcony truly maximizes square footage while boasting big personality.
Your style doesn’t have to stop at the patio door. Whatever your design esthetic is, let your balcony be an extension of your home. This area is a great opportunity to show off your personality. Here, the homeowners’ style plays throughout the space – from the modern furniture to the joyful patterns and bright accessories.
“The use of vivid colours not only makes this balcony inviting and attractive, but helps brighten the most dreaery of days.”
Sunny skies ahead
The use of vivid colours not only makes this balcony inviting and attractive, but helps brighten the most dreary of days. Saturated hues of blue and yellow in the throw cushions and area rug emulate a sunny sky, popping perfectly against the white wall backdrop of this patio space.
The green advantage
Along with a selection of bright outdoor accessories, LUX surrounds this balcony with ample greenery. This addition of plants allows the space to feel like an oasis away from the bustle of the city. Layering lush foliage also helps to soften views of concrete buildings while supporting a sense of tranquility, allowing its users to feel relaxed.
Retreat & recharge
A balcony should be a place you crave spending time in. On this one, we provided ample opportunities for the homeowners to put their feet up; from the small sofa that doubles as a daybed to the two end tables. The patterned rug underfoot helps create a cosy and comfortable environment, while various pillows work to add another layer of relaxation.
Designer TIPS
Grey skies shouldn’t restrict your patio time – add bright colours here and there to liven everything up and make it feel like summer again
Incorporating tall planters and types of greenery – like ornamental grass – not only adds flair to your outdoor space, but provides privacy from neighbours
“While this balcony might appear small, it certainly doesn’t lack in functionality. It is a space to kick back and relax while offering a spot to sit down and eat breakfast or have a glass of wine after work.”
Small space essentials
While this balcony might appear small, it certainly doesn’t lack in functionality. It is a space to kick back and relax while offering a spot to sit down and eat breakfast or have a glass of wine after work. To achieve this practical and eye-catching space, LUX utilizes flexible outdoor furniture that can be easily moved around or moved out of the way. Opting for folding or stackable chairs, like the white metal ones shown is a great use of space. The choice of two mobile end tables instead of a single coffee table also allows for a more adaptable environment that can readily go from dining to seating. The furniture and accessories we selected are also versatile in that they work outdoors as well as inside during winter months.
Opportunities for storage are also a must-have for any outdoor patio. Try a water-resistant bamboo basket to hold your comfy blankets. Here, a shallow white console is added to hold dishes and decorative items. Its small footprint makes it the perfect addition to this vibrant balcony.
Designer TIPS Choose versatile accessories that can work both outside and indoors, as well as flexible furniture that can be easily moved around
Sources
SOFA/OTTOMAN: Cabana Coast RUG: Wayfair CHAIRS: Nuevo Living BISTRO TABLE: Mod Loft ACCESSORIES: Ikea, West Elm
Paige Johnston is a Canadian designer and strategist based in New York City. She collaborates and works often with Isabelle Boba, Interior Designer and Founder of LUX Design, the design studio that executed this colourful Canadian balcony. paigeajohnston.com & luxdesign.ca