A balcony forms a great private outdoor space perfect for unwinding and relaxing, especially if living in a city apartment. However, with some innovative designs, one can enjoy the outdoors from the privacy of the indoors. Even the tiniest balcony has the potential to transform into a beautiful exterior space. The balcony can be designed as an extension of the living room or bedroom. Use a similar indoor and outdoor flooring material and create a brilliant inside-outside connection. Make sure that all the furniture looks into the outdoors and only include a few pieces of furniture on the balcony as they can block the view from the indoors. Large spans of glass door panels can be used to separate the balcony from the indoor room without breaking the visual connection, making the balcony feel larger. Coordinate the space with similar colors and choose a color palette that is an extension of your home and personality. Transform the balcony into a functional zone with a pair of chairs and a center table, go for a built-in seating table, or hang a swing from the ceiling as it allows one to enjoy the outdoor views from a greater height. If the balcony is spacious, then go for a wicker sofa and center table and divide it into two functional zones. Treat the other section of your balcony like a living room by introducing a comfy chair and throw pillows so that it can doubly function as an exciting reading nook. Go for only a few pieces of furniture and choose space-saving furniture that can be folded after use. A shelf can be attached to the balcony railing, as it is ideal for serving food and beverages—built-in seating is one of the easiest ways to maximize space. Go for outdoor furniture materials like wicker, resin, plastic, or wrought iron, as they can resist external weather conditions. In addition, synthetic wicker or faux wicker is resistant to outdoor conditions. When not in use, the furniture can be covered with water-repellent covers. For an organic vibe, it is highly recommended to go for curvaceous furniture. If the balcony layout permits, include a hammock as it is perfect for open-air naps. A good dose of color can add life and enliven the overall ambiance of the balcony. Two or three colors can be introduced so that the balcony imparts a neat and uncluttered look. Layer it in the walls, soft upholstery, pretty outdoor-friendly cushions, and outdoor rugs to create a comfortable and vibrant space. Also, experiment with texture and pattern to add a tactile quality and beautify the overall look of the balcony. For example, an outdoor rug can be from the focal point of the balcony in moisture-resistant materials like nylon, propylene, or polyester, and one can surround it with furniture. A good flooring design can instantly upgrade the overall look of the balcony. Some of the best flooring materials include porcelain tiles, cement tiles, and natural stone. You can also spruce up the face of a concrete slab with interlocking wood deck tiles, as they are effortless to install. Surround yourself with nature and spruce up the balcony with lush green plants. Note that a zen garden is a low-maintenance garden with white pebbles, wood, and green plants that come together to create an interesting textural contrast. Although the balcony is a great place to enjoy the sun, the scorching heat might make it challenging to use, especially during summer. Some of the best ways to add shade are with a pergola or an open roof system which comprises equidistant slats of wood with plants or climbers growing within it. The best part about a pergola is that it provides shade without blocking the warmth of the sun. Whenever it gets hot outside, have a splash. A jacuzzi on the terrace is a dream worth fulfilling. It has the potential for you to enjoy it all year round and is an investment in comfort of the highest level.If you are thinking of installing an outdoor jacuzzi, you are most likely wondering if you have enough space. However, that does not have to be an obstacle to enjoying a hot bath in the heights. The key is in the design, distribution and model of the spa, since there are 2-seater and 4-seater spas of reduced size for smaller spaces and for larger spaces we can also contemplate the option of installing a swim spa In this sense, it is possible to install a spa on a terrace of up to 12 square meters. In the case of a sensitive place, such as a terrace, it is best to keep in mind the weight of the Jacuzzi and the furniture or installation to cover the spa. Likewise, it is essential to have knowledge about the state of the structure and the approximate maximum weight that the slab is capable of supporting. Depending on the Jacuzzi model, the operating weight can range from 200 kg. and 500 kg. per m2, including equipment, furniture, water and people during the bath. Therefore, it would be necessary to calculate the weight that the jacuzzi will exert on the terrace per m2. To do this, divide the approximate weight by the area. The result will be expressed in kg. per m2. The CTE (Technical Building Code) sets the guidelines in this regard in Spain, hence it must be an architect or engineer who performs the structural calculation. With a jacuzzi on the terrace you will be opening the possibility of raising your meetings and events at home to another level. You will be able to surprise your guests in a unique way, both in cold months and in hot months. Enjoy your summer wherever you are, best at home on your balcony. Brad Smack