With many Australians living in apartments or compact homes, finding smart ways to extend your living space is key. Balconies offer untapped potential if you know how to style them right.
“The biggest mistake I see is overcrowding the space with bulky furniture or too many pieces,” Woodbury Furniture interior designer Chris Catarino says.
“It makes the area feel smaller and less inviting – the secret is doing less, but with more intention.”
Chris recommends focusing on a few simple elements that bring warmth and comfort while preserving the feeling of openness. He shares his top design tricks for turning your balcony into an extension of your home, keeping the cozy vibe perfect for relaxing with a drink, a book or good company, no matter the temperature.
- Bounce light around with reflective surfacesÂ
“People often focus on soft textures and lighting for coziness. Incorporating reflective surfaces like a small, mirrored wall panel or metallic accents is a great addition as it bounces natural and artificial light around your balcony,” Chris says.
“This creates a warmer, brighter space that feels more open and inviting, especially during the shorter, cooler winter days.”
- Fragrant plants act as nature’s candles
“Coziness goes beyond sight and touch. Appealing to your other senses shouldn’t be underestimated.”
“Adding winter-blooming, fragrant plants like rosemary or winter jasmine near your seating adds an unexpected sensory layer that makes your balcony feel more like a relaxing retreat. Think of it like a candle but for your balcony.”
- Choose warm-toned materials
“Teak timber is always my go-to,” Chris says.
“It’s weather-resistant and long-lasting, but also has that beautiful, rich honey-brown tone that feels like it belongs inside the home. Using warm and natural materials helps blur the line between your interior and outdoor space, which is the key to making a balcony feel like a real lounge.”
- Soft touches with smart styling
“Outdoor cushions made from acrylic fabrics are perfect,” says Chris.
“They resist the elements but still feel plush and cozy, transforming your balcony seating into a comfortable lounge spot. But less is more, just one or two seat cushions and a throw is enough. A carefully styled arrangement looks intentional and polished – you want the comfort of a lounge, without the visual clutter.”
- Choose deep colours with intent
“Stick to a few tones, think deep greens, coastal blues or warm earth shades and repeat them across cushions, planters and throws,” he says.
“A cohesive palette makes the space feel styled, not messy. It helps everything work together visually and makes the area feel more thoughtfully designed, even if you’ve only added a few elements.”
With these expert tips, even the smallest balcony can feel like a stylish, cozy lounge, perfect for relaxing through the cooler months with no renovation required.
