Having a balcony in an apartment is generally considered a plus. But not all balconies are created equal. The best way to use your apartment balcony will depend on its size, your neighbours, the outlook and direction. One thing’s for sure, a balcony is not a backyard so maybe you need to rethink how you BBQ..
Function of an apartment balcony
Doing a little research I learnt that it’s most likely that balconies in Ancient Greece were functional. They provided ventilation and sunlight.
So their original purpose was not to entertain, spend time on with a coffee and croissant, much less BBQ.
This makes sense when we think about how people lived in Ancient Greece. I’m thinking of third spaces such as markets and other public areas where people would meet for entertainment.
In Ancient Greece they didn’t view their balcony as extra space like we do now. But in reality I wonder if a balcony is actually extra space?
Some of my clients do think it’s extra space. They imagine that, like in a traditional home with a backyard, they can have a seamless indoor/outdoor experience.
But what they don’t consider is the size of the balcony, the noise and the neighbours. We may not realise it, but having a BBQ with mates or without, in full view of our neighbours doesn’t really appeal.
That why I think it’s time to let go of the idea of using your balcony for a BBQ. If you’re in an apartment it’s possible and likely that you’re close to a park with BBQ facilities.
And this is a benefit of living in an apartment. You have the ability to consider and use third spaces. These include parks with BBQs or rooftops with BBQs. This enhances greater community connectivity.
What to use your apartment balcony for
Some of my clients who living in apartments use their balconies to grow a small range of herbs and vegetables. Or just a pot plant garden.
Another client’s balcony was big enough for stools for guest to sit out and have a drink. This balcony had a stunning view. With my balcony above I have a small table and chair setting in line with my interior design style goal.
A client in Docklands had a terrace instead of a balcony. More often than not, it was too windy to use.
We need to adjust our thinking about how we live in our apartments. This adjustment is crucial for successful apartment living.
To live well in apartment, small adjustments are necessary. Like understanding that the balcony is not a backyard. This means a rethink about the best way to use your apartment balcony. A rethink is essential for easy apartment living.
