Interiors: Homeowner transforms small ‘drab’ balcony into ‘colourful’ oasis on a budget

With summer just around the corner, many people will be getting their outdoor spaces ready for the warmer months.

Whether it's a small patio, a balcony or a courtyard, a small amount of creativity can go a long way.

For those looking for some balcony inspiration on a budget, Festive Lights spoke to Erica Vonderwall, 38 from London who has transformed her small balcony space on a budget ready for the summer months.

Erica said she works from home and doesn't have a proper garden. She cherishes having a balcony so she can chill out on her lunch break or after work.

While she cherishes the outside space she has, the area was "drab" compared to the rest of her flat which is "super colourful and full of personality".

READ MORE: Five ‘must-have’ garden flowers to add ‘instant impact’ in ‘any’ garden

She wanted to make the balcony an extension of her flat so decided to embark on the project during the Easter Bank Holiday.

Erica said because money is tight at the moment, and she will only be spending a small portion of the year out there, she wanted the space to reflect her personality and be an entertaining space without costing her a fortune.

She continued: "I often get complimented on my interior decor and told I should do something like that for a job, but I just like what I like, and I like to surround myself with lots of colourful, happy things.

"It's definitely not a hobby, I sometimes hate starting projects like this, but once they're done, I'm always glad I started.

"Having a good outside area is also important no matter what the size, especially in London where gardens are a luxury."

The homeowner's personal style is "colourful chaos" so she wanted to add a touch of vibrance to the otherwise dull space. While she didn't have an exact budget in mind, she knew she wanted to update the space "as cheap as possible".

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Erica already had colourful lights in the cupboard that weren't being used and already owned the table and chairs. All she needed to buy were accessories and aesthetic details like pots and rugs.

She said: "So all I needed to buy was the plastic mat (£20), the plant pots for the railing (£1.50 each), and the fake flowers which I used in a few places (£25 for 12 bunches).

"So the whole transformation was about £50 in total. I have added the colourful lights more as decoration as my balcony gets a lot of light at all times of day due to street lights anyway so it doesn't actually need its own light source."

The table and chairs fold away so if she wants to invite people onto her balcony she can. The rugs are also washable and wipe-clean so they last longer.

Erica suggested those looking to transform their own outdoor space should do their research to see how others have decorated theirs.

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She also suggested shopping around to see if items can be bought cheaper or secondhand before buying new.

Paula Boston, visual merchandiser at Festive Lights has shared the best way to transform a small outdoor space on a budget.

She said: "Many people find it difficult to brighten up their outdoor space if it is not a traditional garden, however, all you need to do is choose warm-coloured materials to complement the existing architecture.

"For example, a vivid green statement plant or red garden furniture can bring your neutral space to life. Lighting can also help you appreciate your small outdoor space for all its beauty by highlighting zones - hanging overhead festoon lights or adding a free-standing light to add a gentle glow to the corner.

"When space is limited in a balcony or small garden consider using vertical space wherever possible to bring life and vibrancy, such as hanging string or solar lights, lanterns, or planters.

"Alternatively, opt for flexible furniture or decor that can be stored away when not in use. Think smart with stylish and minimal decor that can be tucked away or used for all the seasons."