How to get more from balconies and decks
They say that necessity is the mother of invention. When it comes to stretching space for an apartment or high-rise condo, that same impetus leads many to research far and wide for the perfect product to satisfy a particular need. For this purpose, the Internet is the tool of the millennium.
Since summer is looming, let's take a look at how to best use a balcony, deck or large porch attached to a small home.
One benefit to older homes is they usually fill a neighborhood with front and back porches. Apartments confine you unless you are at the end of a building, but often they offer a balcony that runs the length of the unit. Whether you live in a townhouse, a high-rise condo or a classic apartment building, the outdoor space is generally limited.
First, think about a place for you and guests to sit. It might be that you have an urban view that includes a ballpark or a waterfront. Perhaps your view is of trees and fields, or it might just be the neighborhood scene. I am a fan of stacking chairs because you can store seating for six in the same floor space that one chair occupies.
Sometimes people drag compact outdoor seating inside to accommodate occasional guests. This set of stacking deck chairs is inspired by the designs of Danish furniture master Han Wegner. Made of Brazilian eucalyptus, these specific chairs are naturally resistant to rain, mold and termites.
Check out other styles made from weatherproof woven materials such as resin wicker over aluminum frames or aluminum made to resemble wrought iron. Invest in a sturdy all-weather cover that will keep any of these styles looking fresh for years.
Consider small ottomans for the balcony if your space doesn't allow for a larger armchair, a swivel chair or a lounge. Furniture doesn't have to be huge in order to deliver a comfortable lounge space. Often being able to swivel or rock can make a petite style bench or chair function on a superior level.
Next think about how to fit a functional table into your space. Hammacher Schlemmer offers two foldaway tables made of the same Brazilian eucalyptus as these chairs. They have a 48-inch diameter dining table that folds into 7-by-48 inches when both leaves are dropped for just under $250. Another smaller side table is 19½ inches by 20 inches by 20 inches and folds flat.
You can find numerous options on websites such as hayneedle.com or wayfair.com, from round bistro styles to more substantial rectangular tables with umbrella holes. Remember that no matter how small the table, it offers a spot for someone to rest a dinner plate, glass or coffee mug. This might lead you to nesting tables that can stack neatly away when not needed.
Flexibility and comfort is the key for your small outdoor area. To assure use of your outdoor living area, you will want to attend to cooling and heating according to the season. Consider a ceiling mounted fan or a stand-alone fan. Heating can be permanently wired infrared or fueled by propane. Heaters come in floor-standing models and tabletop versions.
If you have room for a fire pit, get a protective screen. Safety first!
Finally, consider lighting. Avoid automatic security lights that make the space feel like a prison yard! Instead, look to your regular porch light or to other types of solar light fixtures for more gentle illumination.
There are battery-operated floor and table lamps on the market, as well as outdoor electric lamps. Low voltage string lights are another popular way to introduce elegant and dreamy lighting to any outdoor area. If you have an overhead structure, stringing multiple strands of lights from it is a classic look that is both festive and functional for all seasons.
• Christine Brun is a San Diego-based interior designer and the author of “Small Space Living.” Send questions and comments to her by email at christinebrun@sbcglobal.net.
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