Turn your balcony into a toasty haven for dining, entertaining, or tucking into a good book.
“With Americans spending more on outdoor rooms than ever before, it’s not surprising they want as much from their investment as possible,” says Leslie Wheeler, spokeswoman for the nonprofit Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. “That’s why manufacturers are responding with a wide assortment of heating appliances to keep you cozy.”
Choices include:
Freestanding outdoor fireplaces.
Clay or cast-iron chimineas — portable hearths on metal stands.
Fire pits that burn natural gas, liquid propane, or wood logs.
Patio heaters, some of which can radiate heat as far as 25 feet. (Check with your building or neighborhood’s regulations regarding any fire structures on patios or balconies.)
Furnish your space
Budget as tight as your space? Kick-start your creative mojo!
“You don’t need expensive furniture to make an appealing outdoor space,” says Apartment Therapy Los Angeles-based contributor Laure Joliet. “Search Craigslist, search local alleys, and find something that’s the right size and isn’t actually falling apart. If you can put a tablecloth on, you won’t even have to worry about it being in great shape.”
Also, think beyond furniture when scouting great deals.
“I shopped around the neighborhood (okay, and did a little dumpster diving) for discarded pots and neglected plants,” writes Jamie Durie in The Outdoor Room (HarperCollins, 2011). “Check online for your local Freecycle to see if anyone is giving away plant material.”
Finishing touches
Amp up your balcony’s comfort quotient with the following fun accessories:
All-weather pillows and throws
Romantic candles or LED rope lights
Metal marshmallow forks or an outdoor popcorn popper
Bug spray — contrary to popular opinion, mosquitoes can survive even as the mercury drops!
Beautiful balcony must-haves
Turn your balcony into a toasty haven for dining, entertaining, or tucking into a good book.
“With Americans spending more on outdoor rooms than ever before, it’s not surprising they want as much from their investment as possible,” says Leslie Wheeler, spokeswoman for the nonprofit Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. “That’s why manufacturers are responding with a wide assortment of heating appliances to keep you cozy.”
Choices include:
Furnish your space
Budget as tight as your space? Kick-start your creative mojo!
“You don’t need expensive furniture to make an appealing outdoor space,” says Apartment Therapy Los Angeles-based contributor Laure Joliet. “Search Craigslist, search local alleys, and find something that’s the right size and isn’t actually falling apart. If you can put a tablecloth on, you won’t even have to worry about it being in great shape.”
Also, think beyond furniture when scouting great deals.
“I shopped around the neighborhood (okay, and did a little dumpster diving) for discarded pots and neglected plants,” writes Jamie Durie in The Outdoor Room (HarperCollins, 2011). “Check online for your local Freecycle to see if anyone is giving away plant material.”
Finishing touches
Amp up your balcony’s comfort quotient with the following fun accessories: