While you might not be able to have a full English garden and patio set that you might get with a single-family dwelling with a backyard, there are many options for creating a relaxing and fun outdoor space on your condo balcony or patio. Many people don't take advantage of their balcony or don't see the potential when they are looking at condos for sale,of having this additional square footage. Here are a few tips that might help you make use of your outdoor condo space.
Find some seating that suits the space but doesn't take up all of the room. If you've got a smaller balcony with your unit, you may want to consider installing a bench against the railing or a small bistro set. Maybe instead of using a standard patio set with a table and chairs, you can just have a couple of chairs with a small end table to set drinks and food on. Paint or add fabric to your seating to add a little extra flair to your outdoor room.
Add in some plant life. Even if you don't have a lot of time to spend or don't have a green thumb, there are lots of low maintenance plants and flowers that you can put in a window box or just set out in the sun in decorative pots. If you're looking at a condominium for sale and you're someone who's used to having your own garden, see if there's enough room to plant some herbs and your favorite flower. Hanging baskets are another way of adding some green and preserving space. Gardening Without A Garden has some great ideas.
Make the space work for you. If the outdoor space that comes with your building has a roof to keep off the rain and snow, maybe you could invest in an outdoor heater so that you can use that space for entertaining and relaxing throughout the year. If it's allowed in the building, look into buying a small barbecue for summer cooking. This is a great addition to any home and there are many designs that would suit a balcony space. If you want a condo or loft in Toronto that has a great outdoor space, start by searching a local real estate website.
Find decorative ways of making your outdoor space a private oasis. Many balconies and patios don't offer a whole lot of privacy. Add a little bamboo to create a wall between you and the balconies around you. Use artwork and plants to make the space seem a little more intimate. Your patio or balcony can be a great escape from city condo life; you just have to take a little time to create that space. Next time a sunny day rolls around, you'll be happy that you get to take a book and a cold drink outside.
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