How to update your patio or balcony on a budget
“When doing DIY for the first time, I always recommend tackling one project at a time. It’s great to have the full picture in mind, but doing one thing at a time can help ensure that you don’t get overwhelmed and it will ensure that the project is a success.”
James Judge
Designer and realtor
As the weather warms up, it’s finally time to step outside and make the most of it. Whether you have a spacious patio or a cozy balcony, there are plenty of DIY projects you can tackle on a budget to enhance your outdoor space. From simple updates to creative transformations, there are plenty of budget-friendly ideas to breathe new life into your outdoor oasis. Whether it’s adding cozy seating with repurposed pallets, creating a colorful herb garden in recycled containers, or stringing up fairy lights for a magical ambiance, these DIY projects offer endless possibilities to personalize your space and make it truly your own. So grab your tools, unleash your creativity, and get ready to turn your patio or balcony into a stylish and inviting retreat where you can relax and unwind
How to update your patio on a budget
Here are some ideas from James Judge, designer and realtor @thehousejudge on Instagram, on how to update your patio or balcony on a budget:
IDEA 1: Add faux hedge panels to create privacy on balcony railings or to hide anything unsightly. Snap panels together for custom sizes. “This is one of my favorite DIY outdoor tips because you can get instant gratification with just a few simple changes,” said Judge.
IDEA 2: Enhance ambiance with solar landscape lighting or plug-in fixtures. “Consider adding solar landscape lighting into your potted plants or along the ground to up light the structure. This will create a big visual impact in the evening and really helps to highlight your space,” said Judge.
IDEA 3: “So often patios or balconies have a concrete floor which can be appealing if it’s aged, therefore I recommend adding concrete paint to the floor,” said Judge. This trick helps hide
stains, flaws and cracks. Just make sure to choose paint suitable for outdoor concrete surfaces.
“When doing DIY for the first time, I always recommend tackling one project at a time. It’s great to have the full picture in mind, but doing one thing at a time can help ensure that you don’t get overwhelmed and it will ensure that the project is a success,” said Judge.
How can I make my balcony nice?
To create a welcoming and inviting balcony space, start by thoroughly cleaning and decluttering the area to establish a fresh foundation. Choose appropriately sized and weather-resistant furniture that complements your balcony’s dimensions and style, ensuring both comfort and durability.
Judge says to wait until June when outdoor furniture and accessories typically go on sale, then take advantage of
the discounts to stock up on all the essentials without breaking the bank.
Introduce greenery through potted plants, hanging baskets or vertical gardens to infuse your balcony with natural beauty and a refreshing atmosphere. Consider adding privacy features such as screens, trellises or curtains to create a secluded retreat. Enhance comfort with soft textiles like cushions, throws, and outdoor rugs and incorporate lighting elements such as lanterns to extend usability into the evening. Personalize the space with decorative accents and maximize vertical space with shelving or hanging organizers to optimize storage.
“You will make mistakes with DIY. On social media, it’s rare when we see the mistakes people actually make in the progress but they happen and they will continue to happen. I always suggest pausing to decide if the mistake can be resolved or improved before starting over. Regardless, every DIY project has its ups and downs but the end result is always so rewarding,” said Judge.
Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.acosta@gannett.com . Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.