Get Inspired
Out Standing: 4 ways to convert your city balcony into a fun alcove
MAY 6, 2016 | By Aditi Gaitonde
In big city apartments, having a balcony is a luxury. If you are one of those lucky few with access to your very own terrace that looks out into the city, here are few ways of enjoying it to the fullest. Get inspired by these ideas and make the most of your precious space.
1. Bring it “indoors”
Those with a sprawling balcony can take measures to incorporate it into their homes – create a semi-sheltered alcove without losing the essence of the outdoors. Enclose either sides (keeping the most scenic view open) with windows and decorate with light hued furniture and accessories like in Lisa Ray’s Mumbai home. Here, the warmth of extensively used wood induces a forest like feel, coupled with grey river stone hued flooring.
2. Take cues from the French
Turn your dull balcony into a French countryside sit-out. Be inspired by Sussanne Khan’s Mumbai apartment that embraces distressed finishes, neutral hued upholstery and fresh white flowers. Induce hints of glamour with reflective surfaces and mirror finishes on lamps, wall accessories and tables.
3. Turn it into a casual dining space
Imagine dining alfresco every day of the year. That’s right, turn your terrace into a dining area with a treated wooden table and mild steel chairs. Employ wooden deck flooring to add a sense of the outdoors the way Shefali Balwani and Robert Verrijt’s have done in their Mumbai flat. For the tablescape, don’t forget to pepper it with short flower filled vases.
4. Convert it into a laid-back reading corner
Introduce low seating in the terrace area to create the perfect nook for reading. Don’t hesitate to take the central theme of your home to your balcony as well. For Sunita Namjoshi’s Mumbai home, its heritage essence also flowed to this area. Introduce some art on the walls and some greens alongside for character.
Also read: Unusual colour palettes that are inspired by India