If your apartment has a loggia or balcony, rejoice, you are very lucky! What an unforgivable sin - to turn a balcony into a warehouse, to clutter this most valuable space with skis, unnecessary toys, pots of ficus and other rubbish that is simply a pity to throw away. Let's dare to take everything unnecessary to the landfill, free up the balcony space and turn it into a magnificent living space!
A set of furniture for a balcony can be represented by different items depending on the dimensions of the room and its functional purpose
Of course, you need to choose furniture for the balcony wisely; the laws that apply here are not at all the same as those that apply to the bedroom, living room and other rooms. But with the right choice, even this place can be turned into a luxurious study, a cozy lounge area and even a bedroom, if you place an easy chair or even a folding bed on a loggia or balcony, while choosing the right furniture.
Basic rules when choosing furniture for balconies and loggias
So, you have freed up space on the balcony, thrown away everything unnecessary, and are standing, like an artist in front of a blank canvas, in slight confusion. Should I put a folding chair on the balcony, or is it better to have a table with chairs? Should I hang a hammock or is it better to place racks for storing things? You want everything at once, but you have to choose one option.
An important factor in choosing balcony furniture is color – some people like calm neutral shades, others prefer bright, cheerful accents
Here are the basic rules that you should follow when choosing furniture and interior items for your balcony and loggia:
- The most important and primary thing: decide what this space will serve you for. And no uncertainties, only clear specifics! If you think something like this: “Well, we will sometimes have breakfast here, but mostly relax, and I will sometimes draw here, but we will also store the bicycle here...” - nothing will come of it, your idea is doomed to failure. Only one task: either it will be a comfortable pantry, or a creative workshop, or a mini-dining room, or a relaxation area. Choose strictly and concretely, once and for all.
- Once you have decided on the goals of the space, decide what the main piece of furniture should be. If this is a workshop, then perhaps an easel or a comfortable work table. If there is an office, then a table and a chair or an armchair. Both of these options require shelves and racks. If there is a relaxation area, then a folding chair-bed or a hammock.
- When choosing the main piece of furniture, consider the size of your balcony and, ideally, draw a clear plan of the space with all the dimensions.
- Choose ergonomic furniture: narrow shelves and racks oriented vertically, chairs without armrests or a sofa in which the armrests will act as tables. With a minimum footage, it shouldn’t be crowded.
- Everything is foldable, mobile and lightweight - ideal. Furniture for a loggia should not be monumental and oak, this is not the place.
Focus on lightness and mobility, choose high-quality balcony furniture and correctly calculate the dimensions in advance. That's all the secrets!
Bar counter on the balcony
Recently, the option of a bar counter has become a very popular solution not only in the kitchen, but also on balconies and loggias. So, a wide window sill easily turns into a bar counter, where you can sit on high chairs and have a great time while having dinner with your family or friends. If at the bottom of the window sill, also known as a counter, we equip several shelves and drawers with sliding doors, we will get a wonderful combination of design art and practicality.
The last squeak is the bar counter on the balcony
It is very practical and convenient to have a bar counter on the balcony with a beautiful view. Did you like the article? Share on social networks!
Ergonomics of furniture in the interior of balconies and loggias
And a few more words about the comfort of space. If it’s crowded on the balcony and you have to squeeze between a chair and a table, then very soon you won’t want to go there at all. Coziness plus comfort and space – this is the formula for the ideal room.
The photo shows an example of saving balcony space - a cabinet, the upper surface of which can be used as a tabletop
Therefore, you should choose ergonomic furniture: one that fits perfectly in shape and dimensions, compact, folding or designer furniture. For example, this could be a chair bed for your loggia: during the day you can sit and read here, and at night you can lay out the chair and sleep or put guests to bed.
Pros and cons of organizing a workspace on a balcony or loggia
In most apartments there is a shortage of free space. Therefore, there is no place to organize a work office on the balcony other than on the balcony. A prepared functional space has several advantages:
- a small compact area allows you to place only the essentials (computer/laptop, magazine, notepad, pencil case, notebooks);
- there is always access to fresh air (even if the balcony is glazed, all sections open, so you can put them in for ventilation at any time);
- it is possible to organize sound insulation (if done correctly, the work will take place in complete silence, which will allow you to concentrate on what is important);
- there is always access to natural light (this factor seriously affects work productivity);
- By organizing an office on a loggia or balcony, the apartment leaves more free space that can be used for any purpose).
Organizing a work office on the balcony also has its downsides:
- you need to take into account the budget-tangible costs of purchasing materials and furniture;
- it is necessary to further consider the method of insulation;
- you need to plan all the details in advance, since it will be difficult to change some designs later.
If possible, plan the space first on paper (draw a diagram), and only then transfer all your ideas to the real room.
Correct arrangement of furniture
Saving space means that all furniture needs to be “pressed” against the walls, freeing up maximum space in the center. If this is a table and chairs for breakfast, then a round table will take up too much space - it is better to choose a rectangular and rather narrow one, put it next to the partition, and generally take folding chairs and place them only as needed.
The main task of placing furniture on the balcony is to save space without losing functionality
It is better to hang shelves and racks higher - this way they will not take up space, and things and flowers in pots can be placed in their places, and there will be order. You can use multifunctional modular furniture - for example, a small cabinet-rack, narrow and not taking up space, and it can have both storage space and a work table.
Options for choosing furniture for the balcony interior
But before you arrange the furniture, you need to select it. You need to do this in advance and select all the components at once, so that later there are no surprises and it does not turn out, for example, that no chairs fit under the purchased table, or that there is no room left for them at all.
In limited balcony space it is very convenient to use folding furniture
So decide what will be the main thing on the balcony - seats or sleeping furniture, a work area or something else. And start choosing the main pieces of furniture.
Closet
If you need to store something on the balcony, or just finally put things in order, then you can’t do without a closet. It should be quite shallow, but at the same time it can reach the very ceiling: this way you will save space, and everything you need will fit without difficulty. Add shelves to the closet or choose a rack, it will be much more ergonomic.
When choosing a cabinet, first of all you need to focus on the area of the room
A well-chosen closet will not only serve as a place for convenient storage of things, but will also decorate the balcony space
The cabinet can be either open or closed, or combined. Modern modular walls allow you to realize any fantasy: a light wooden shelving unit combined with open shelves and closed compartments of different sizes. Very convenient and beautiful, and most importantly compact and ergonomic.
Shelves
Shelves for the balcony can be made with your own hands or bought ready-made. In general, you can’t do without shelves here: firstly, they will allow you to restore order in the house and compactly store everything you need: winter preparations, indoor plants, boxes with seasonal things. Just make sure that trash doesn’t accumulate: keep only those things that are really needed, and get rid of the rest in a timely manner.
When choosing material for shelves, it is important to consider their purpose - this will determine the requirements for strength and appearance
The design of the shelves should be selected in accordance with the style of the balcony interior
Here you can place books and magazines on the shelves, and if this is a work office, then all the necessary folders and papers. don’t forget the decor, lighting, garlands, candles to make it cozy and beautiful. Shelves can be very laconic and simple, made of wood or chipboard, or metal.
Armchair
If you dream of setting up a lounge area in your apartment with a soft, cozy chair to watch a movie, read, or even smoke a hookah, the space of a loggia or balcony is perfect for this. In this case, the chair will be the center of the composition and the main piece of furniture.
Wicker upholstered furniture looks great in the interior of the balcony
Cozy hanging chair on balcony with artificial grass
You can place a hanging cozy chair right on the balcony, but keep in mind that it will take up quite a lot of space. This is a good option for a spacious balcony or large loggia. If there is not a lot of space, the ideal option is a bean bag chair. It’s lightweight, you can put it in another room if you want, it costs a penny, and even on a small balcony you can fit two of these bags so you can relax with someone. Lay down a soft rug, throw a couple of these bags on the floor, and your lounge area is ready with minimal effort!
The photo shows a bean bag chair on a balcony with panoramic glazing based on an aluminum profile
And others
From the balcony you can make a charming small dining room, where you will happily have breakfast, lunch and even have a romantic dinner with your loved one. To do this, you need to place a small square or rectangular table and chairs here. By the way, it is better to choose folding chairs for a loggia or balcony to save space.
The photo shows a panoramic balcony with comfortable furniture, suitable for both relaxation and a light breakfast
If you dream of a creative workshop, then create at your own discretion: you can hang shelves on the walls, and occupy the main space with an easel or work table, or put a sewing machine if you are going to create fashionable masterpieces here.
The photo shows a cozy balcony equipped as an artist’s studio
For the work area you will need a compact work table - the smallest one to fit only a laptop. A comfortable chair, a table lamp and shelves for everything you need – compact and convenient!
You can hang a small cabinet above the cabinet or build in open shelves
Types of balcony chairs
Wicker . A rather cozy option that will create a relaxed, light atmosphere. This chair is also suitable for country style and will go well with wooden details. Chairs can be made of rattan, willow or other similar materials. Such furniture requires careful handling and does not tolerate moisture well, so it is better to hide it from rain and moisture.
Hanging . Although they resemble a swing, they appeal not only to children. Every day, wicker chairs are increasingly conquering the market and are often used in minimalist interiors. The chair does not take up much space and can withstand heavy loads. The smooth lines of the frame soften the atmosphere, conducive to relaxation.
Rocking chair . Those who like to dream will appreciate it. Now there is a wide variety of them: wicker, wooden, with or without soft seats. You can choose a rocking chair for your balcony to suit absolutely any interior. A quality product costs a lot, but will last for many years.
Folding . Such furniture is used at picnics, cottages or verandas. It is compact and does not require special care. A folding chair is an excellent solution for an open or small balcony. If necessary, it can always be removed. You can complement it with decorative pillows or a blanket.
Bag chair . Completely devoid of any frame. It adapts to the shape of the body, providing maximum softness and comfort. Children adore these chairs, because they can jump or run on them without the least risk of getting hurt.
Chair-bed . This solution may be suitable, for example, for a narrow and long balcony. It is suitable for those who like to relax in complete comfort. It is worth buying a chair-bed for the balcony if you use the room as a full-fledged room or you often have guests. Its main feature is its versatility: when folded, it acts as a regular chair.
READ MORE: Making a corner cabinet for the balcony
Materials for making furniture for the balcony
What can balcony furniture be made from? In fact, from any material. But still, do not forget that choosing furniture for a loggia and balcony must follow different laws than for other rooms in the apartment.
Balcony furniture is exposed to humidity and ultraviolet radiation, especially if the room is unheated
Tree
Wooden furniture is ideal for any purpose - be it a table for creativity or a work desk, shelves or a rack, a small dining table and stools. Wood is durable, furniture made from it is durable, environmentally friendly and of excellent quality. And she is always beautiful and stylish, it’s a no-brainer.
The surfaces of wooden furniture will have to be periodically renewed, dried parts will have to be sorted out and repaired.
But there is a nuance: when choosing wooden furniture for the balcony, it is very important to ensure that it is as light and compact as possible. Often wooden furniture is distinguished by its monumentality and is quite bulky. But you need to find the lightest and most compact options, then everything will be fine.
Aluminum
Metal furniture looks great on the balcony. Imagine: a sunny day, a beautiful view from the balcony, a forged metal table with a kettle and cups of steaming tea on it... beauty!
The photo shows forged furniture in the interior of a small balcony with glazing
The photo shows an open balcony with folding chairs and a hanging table made of aluminum
Aluminum furniture is light, beautiful and compact; it can be safely placed on the balcony, especially if it is a dining area.
Other options
Furniture made from chipboard and other “wood substitutes” is quite suitable - such items will cost much less, but are not inferior in quality and beauty. Racks, shelves, a work table or a desk - may well be made of wood boards. The same can be said about a bedside table or coffee table.
Most often, furniture made of chipboard or MDF with a protective layer of plastic is used on the balcony.
A chair-bed or other chair can also have a frame made of wood board, since if it is natural wood, the furniture will be bulky, heavy and quite expensive. It’s even better to choose open-frame furniture – a bean bag chair, as we described above, or a hammock.
The photo shows an option for arranging a sleeping place on a narrow balcony
Racks, a dining table and shelves, as well as a hanging chair can be made of metal: steel, cast iron, and other durable metals. It is not recommended to use glass and plastic on the balcony - these materials are more suitable for interior living rooms or kitchens.
Photos of interior design of a balcony with furniture
When you are already “at a low start” and are ready to go shopping, look at the furniture options for a balcony or loggia in numerous photo examples. They will inspire you: you will see how originally and simply you can furnish a loggia or balcony, both spacious and very miniature in size.
The photo shows a simple bench on a light balcony with bright decoration
In the photo there is a table-window sill combined with a cabinet for storing a variety of things and objects
The photo shows a minimum of furniture on the balcony, decorated in a modern style.
The photo shows a cozy seating area on the balcony with indoor flowers
Pay attention to the use of color, lighting, decor and additional elements, to the design of the floor and walls, to various little things and details. Your imagination will certainly tell you which option to choose for your particular space, and the result will be flawless!
How to create a workplace on the balcony
When designing a workspace in the form of an office on the balcony, you need to proceed in stages. Be sure to consider what details and paraphernalia are necessary to organize a truly functional area.
Allocating the area of a glazed balcony for organizing an office Source dizainexpert.ru
Multifunctional office on the balcony in the apartment Source yellowhome.ru
What to take into account when converting
Transforming a standard balcony space into a personal office for work requires taking into account several features. Without them, the work area cannot exist.
- The style is strict and professional. Minimalism will also do. There should be nothing superfluous in the office on the balcony, only those parts that are needed for work. Limited decor is allowed in the form of one indoor flower on the windowsill or a figurine in the color of the interior.
- Lighting. It is thought out in advance even before the space is covered. Therefore, it is advisable to first draw up a rough plan of where and what will be used and placed.
- Freedom on the windows. If the window sills are too narrow, then it is better not to clutter them with all kinds of decor (crafts, amulets, accessories). Ideally, place an ornamental green plant near your computer.
- The furniture is the right size. This point is relevant if the space inside the balcony is too limited. You will have to buy headset items to order or make them yourself according to individual measurements.
- Chair type. It is better to opt for the option with wheels, since chairs with legs are difficult to move in a limited space. But for a spacious room, chairs with wooden legs look original.
- Filling the end walls to the maximum. Due to the limited space inside the balcony, it is necessary to hang all the shelves correctly. Side walls are used for this. They will perfectly hold both multi-tier and single racks across the entire width of the partition. The space under the table can also be put to good use. Why not hang an original footstool on the wall. Very convenient for those who get tired and are constantly in a sitting position.
The main task of allocating balcony space for an office is to create a comfortable space.
Organizing an office on the balcony with shelves, a table and heating Source sdelai-lestnicu.ru
Glazing
This is the first and quite significant stage in the beginning of arranging an office on the balcony. It is even used if old wooden window frames are already installed. A modern double-glazed window will add comfort and retain heat. When choosing designs, it is better to give preference to two-chamber options. They do not allow wind, dust and dirt to pass through. At the same time, decide on the profile design: you can leave it traditional white or order it with imitation wood. True, the latter option will cost more.
Glazing of a balcony when converting it into an office Source www.pinterest.ru
Take care of what the operating mechanism of the valves will be. You need to choose those that you have already used, and therefore think that they are convenient. There are three options for the mechanism: swing, folding, combined.
Lighting
This stage is appropriate if the loggia faces the shaded side or you are used to working not only during the day, but also in the evenings. For a study on the balcony, light is suitable that does not strain the eyesight or irritate the psyche. Accordingly, soft, diffused rays of muted light will be ideal.
Wall lamps for a study on a balcony or loggia Source okna-dom.net
They try to choose ceiling soffits or wall sconces as light sources. Even a table lamp with a shade will be very useful from a functional and design point of view.
If several sockets are provided, then it is advisable to place them on the common wall of the balcony and the room. It is also possible to install them on the end side of the table. This approach eliminates the need to purchase extension cords.
Insulation
This step is appropriate if the balcony was not equipped in any way before the redevelopment. Most often, an insulating layer is provided at the stage of repair or facade work. For thermal insulation it is worth using polystyrene foam. Its thickness is chosen depending on the severity of weather conditions. The optimal option is 50-80 mm.
Installation of heated floors and thick penofol for insulating a balcony Source handyman52.ru
Penofol (material with a metallized surface) is laid in case there is a shortage of free space in the room. It is mounted on the walls, floor, partition connecting the room and the balcony. The ceiling can also be finished with an insulating layer. To do this, you can use the same materials that were used to insulate the walls and floor.
Heating
In order for the office to remain a living area even during the winter cold, you need to consider a heating system. This is done before finishing the surfaces. You can use electric self-contained devices. The best options: infrared heater, electric convector, underfloor heating system.
Remember! It is prohibited to take the battery from the boiler that heats the entire apartment onto the balcony. This area is not considered residential, therefore it is almost impossible to obtain permission to install a radiator from the management company.
Finishing
This is a painstaking issue that needs to be resolved before planning the space on the balcony. It needs to be given no less attention than the previous stages. The formation of the interior begins with finishing.
Light decoration of a balcony-office using lining Source roomester.ru
When facing, be guided by several features. The office should be practical, businesslike, detailed. Therefore, it is better to give preference to materials in gray, beige, cream, light pink, coffee and other pastel colors. The raw materials for cladding can be anything, it all depends on what the future owner of the office wants. Popular materials for finishing balconies are plastic, water-based paint, laminate, linoleum. The ideal covering for the ceiling is lining or plastic. If there is a sufficiently thick layer of insulation, then it is better to organize a “stretch ceiling”.
Important! When decorating a study on the balcony, you can use wallpaper if it is combined with the room and should match its interior.
