by Roberta del Vaglio.
Whether it’s a small outdoor space or a large terrace, every outdoor area is a private oasis that deserves to be lived in and rediscovered even in the colder months, thanks to some small but valuable ideas.
There’s no need to wait for spring to enjoy your balcony. The secret is to create a cozy space even in the winter months, tailored to your desires and needs, comfortable and practical: a true outdoor space for all seasonsthat doesn’t require a lot of space to take advantage of a milder day and indulge in the desire to relax outdoors. But how and what to do? Here are some simple and immediate suggestions.
On the left, Bloomingville Felina outdoor cushions; on the right, Sweetpea & Willow’s Bloomingville Felippa outdoor cushions – sweetpeaandwillow.com
Hock’s Eliza-Bouquet outdoor cushions – hock-dich-hin.de
DON’T GIVE UP COLOR
Even if the sky is gray, the balcony can take on a lively and welcoming appearance with some small color tricks. The first choice falls on textiles, with which you can give free rein to your imagination: they can always create new styles, playing with contrasting or monochromatic combinations, and they can give a different look to outdoor furniture every time. The important thing is to choose them in weather-resistant or thermal materials, which wrap you in a warm embrace if the cold creeps in.
Outdoor Hotspot blanket by Fatboy – fatboy.com
Speaking of textiles, something that is often overlooked is an outdoor rug: colorful and full of character, it can be left outdoors without worries. Alone, it can provide that extra touch of comfort and style that makes a difference, and it can be paired with some accessories that are easy to store in case of rain. An example? Lots of matching cushions, which are never enough, especially to always be comfortable in any situation. Some seating, if space allows, should not be missing, to be chosen in metallic or wooden outdoor materials, specially treated not to deteriorate.
Outdoor rugs from the Loom collection by Gart, designed by Annamaria Rosin – gartonline.it
Fritz Hansen’s Regatta Lounge Chair – fritzhansen.com
THE ANCIENT CHARM OF FIRE
In Scandinavian countries, living outdoors even in the coldest months is normal, and it is from these places that inspiration can be taken to mimic the habit of lighting a brazier to warm up and create a welcoming atmosphere. Always with due attention and choosing a model of the right size, you can also consider a mini barbecue, choosing portable models that are convenient and practical.
Manhattan gas brazier by Elementi – efestohome.com
Portable Lotus barbecue – cuckooland.com
If space allows, even in small dimensions, you can choose a small modular outdoor kitchen. It is easier to install than you might think, because all it takes is a power outlet on the balcony – for induction plates or small refrigerators – and possibly a water connection, the one usually used for outdoor irrigation.
Jokodomus’ Cun outdoor kitchen – jokodomus.com
OTHER SMALL TIPS
A magical atmosphere is indispensable without the right lighting. Apart from those usually present on a balcony, which are often very intense, you can opt for oil lamps, obviously with protected flames, lanterns, and the inevitable – and always romantic – string lights to hang. This will create a warm and welcoming environment that can be perfect all year round, but also easy to modify if you want to completely change the style.
Starburst string lights, Perth garden lantern with TruGlow® candle, trio of TruGlow® waterproof outdoor candles, TruGlow® Wat, all from Lights4fun – lights4fun.co.uk
Rig Tig’s Viva Hurricane oil lamps – rig-tig.com
One factor not to be underestimated is the placement of seats and all furniture, small or large, in relation to the wind. When possible, of course. But if you have a small margin of space, it is better to place the furniture in a sheltered, protected position, and well exposed to the sun. Plants can always help, with which you can create the right privacy and adequate shelter, without giving up style. How? By choosing evergreen varieties that bloom all year round or in winter months, to be planted in refined design pots.
Palm Beach pots by Pot à porter – potaporter.com
On the cover, micro cluster hanging circles, TruGlow® waterproof outdoor candles, white lanterns with TruGlow® candle, lotus flower string lights; all from Lights4fun.
