Brighten up that balcony

Apartment balconies tend to be underappreciated and are often unused or, worse still, end up as a cluttered storage space for bikes, golf clubs and disused items. In fact, though, balconies are an invaluable feature that, with the right creative touch, can provide precious extra living space and even become an extension of your main living area. Even the smallest of balconies can be turned into an outdoor haven for relaxing with friends or just to enjoy some fresh air.

Here are our top tips for creating the perfect balcony retreat:

Lighten up: The sun may allow you to enjoy your balcony by day but adding soft electrical lighting will allow you to while away the hours long after the Sun has gone down. Mood lighting will have a calming and inviting effect, and can be created by using lightbulbs with lower wattage or using candles for a romantic feel. Experiment with a combination of both to suit your mood. Try outdoor lanterns and candle lanterns for a more decorative touch. The One offers floor-standing candle lanterns and colourful hanging lanterns such as this Mir lantern, with prices from Dh349 and decorative candles like this rose for Dh19, besides small coloured candle lanterns like this purple one from Dh59.

Get comfortable: Balconies are often situated off a main living area such as the living room or kitchen and by adding seating outside, the indoor living space is immediately extended and the balcony becomes integrated into the overall layout and comfort of the home. Smaller balconies may only be able to afford the space for a couple of chairs and, possibly, a table but any form of seating will make all the difference and make the area more inviting. With larger balconies, you can afford to go for more luxurious seating options such as the stunning high-backed chairs with weather-proofed cushions by Crinoline (above) or a daybed with side table. If you are planning on using the space for entertaining and you have the space, a set of garden dining table and chairs is perfect. The Crinoline chairs can be found at Atmosphere, Abu Dhabi. Prices range from: Dh10,170-Dh15,075. The bright yellow and chrome chair is from BoConcept at Dh3,595 and the two stools — also from BoConcept — are priced at Dh849 (for the wooden stool) and Dh679 (for the metal stool).

Be bold: Very few balconies receive sunlight for the entire day, so brighten up a darker space by painting the side walls a bright, warm colour. Use this colour as the basis of your colour scheme and choose accessories, such as weatherproof cushions and daytime throws in complementary shades. Use different fabrics and textures to add warmth and depth to the overall effect of your design.

Go green: Despite it being an extension of your indoor living space, you still want a balcony to feel authentically "outdoors" like a garden. Plants and flowers will give you that garden feel and also brighten up your balcony and bring it to life. Plant boxes, pots and vases are a design feature in themselves and allow you to be creative in a limited space. Smaller balconies can benefit from hanging baskets and window boxes, which can fit along balcony ledges or railings instead of using up precious floor space. This gold Nautinus vase (left, Dh269) is from The One. Branches basket is Dh995 from BoConcept.

Create privacy: There's nothing worse than settling down for some peace and quiet and finding that you've got unwanted company. If your balcony is overlooked by your next-door neighbours, you can purchase bamboo or wooden screens or fencing from any garden centre. You can use this feature as a design element by placing wooden latticing against it and planting creeping plants such as bougainvillea or ivy at its base to create an attractive partition for your outdoor oasis.

Be artistic: Art doesn't have to be exclusive to indoor living; there are so many outdoor weather-resistant options available, such as metal or wooden wall art, stone sculptures or specially treated decorative wall hangings. You may even like to install a small decorative fountain as a tranquil feature. This Fengze fountain from The One costs Dh1195. Other art pieces to consider: Decorative chrome dish (Dh679) and wooden sculpture (Dh649) by BoConcept.