Earth Day is the perfect time to refresh a space that revolves around the outdoors: your balcony. It has plenty of potential to become an eco-friendly haven that combines a cozy atmosphere with sustainable practices. Whether you’re making your balcony into a garden oasis or a cozy reading nook, keeping sustainability at the top of your mind will turn your balcony into a space you feel good about using year-round.
Why Sustainable Outdoor Décor Matters
Outdoor décor is frequently exposed to sun, wind, and moisture, which can lead to deterioration. Since these items wear out faster, they need to be replaced often, leading to excess waste. In addition, to make outdoor items last longer, they are often created or treated with harsh chemicals. Decorating using recycled items reduces waste and lowers the impact on the environment.
How to Create a Cozy and Eco-Friendly Balcony
Having an eco-friendly balcony can be good for the environment and look good at the same time. Let your balcony reflect your style by using sustainable design choices that create a cozy sanctuary.
Find sustainable outdoor furniture
Feel good about lounging on your balcony by repurposing or thrifting outdoor furniture. Find your dream seating from thrift stores, garage sales, friends and family, and online sites. Whether you’re looking for a bench, chair-and-table set, daybed, or couch, you don’t have to sacrifice style to find eco-friendly furniture.
Choose sustainable flooring
Pull the space together by placing down an outdoor rug or putting down renter-friendly interlocking deck tiles. When looking for rugs, hunt for ones made out of sustainable materials, such as jute, sisal, seagrass, or recycled fibers. For tiles, the most sustainable options are bamboo and cork, but recycled plastic and rubber are also good alternatives.
Focus on energy-efficiency lighting
Warm lighting contributes to adding a comfortable atmosphere to your balcony. From twinkling string lights to glowing lanterns, the right lighting not only keeps the dark at bay but also sets the mood. These fixtures can be light on the environment as well, since there are many energy-efficient or solar-powered options, such as LEDs or built-in solar panels.
How to Make an Eco-Friendly Balcony Garden
Turning your balcony into a garden retreat makes it more inviting and more sustainable. By growing plants that support the environment and food that reduces your waste, you’re taking steps toward a greener lifestyle.
Using repurposed items as planters
Use old items as planters, like soda cans, plastic bottles, tin cans, and wood pallets. For more growing room, check out used planters or ones made from recycled materials. However, you also have to consider how much space you have and how to maximize it.
Maximizing your space
Maximize your space with vertical planters, trellis planters, or by hanging plants. Wood pallets work great as a vertical planter. Or there are sustainably-made options if you don’t mind spending some money. And finding used ones is always a possibility. With hanging plants, there are plenty of renter-friendly methods, like tension rods, clothing racks, and adhesive hooks.
Picking the right plants
The kind of plants matters just as much as how yow you plant them when it comes to being eco-friendly. Focus on native plants and heirloom vegetables as they are already suited to the local climate. Succulents are also a good choice because they require less water. Pollinator plants support a healthy ecosystem by attracting bees, butterflies, birds, and other beneficial wildlife.
Eco-friendly gardening
After putting in the effort to create an eco-friendly garden, make sure your maintenance methods match. Start composting to nourish your plants, and collect rainwater with a small harvesting system to reduce waste.
Find a Home with a Balcony on Apartments.com
Creating an eco-friendly balcony starts with finding a home that gives you the space to make it happen. Apartments.com makes that easy with powerful filters designed to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Use the filter menu to select “Balcony” under “Apartment Amenities” or simply use AI Smart Search to dictate that you are looking for apartments with a balcony. Don’t forget to include your other must-have to narrow you search even further. In just a few steps, Apartments.com can help you discover apartments that give you room to enjoy the outdoors.
FAQs
How do I make my balcony pet-friendly?
To make your balcony pet-friendly, start by securing the space with pet-safe railing covers or netting to prevent slipping or escapes. Choose outdoor rugs or turf designed for pets to protect paws and reduce mess, and avoid plants that are toxic to animals. Provide shade and fresh water so your pet stays comfortable, and stick to lightweight, non-chewable furniture.
What is eco-friendly decor?
Eco-friendly decorations are home décor items made from sustainable, recycled, or natural materials to reduce environmental impact. They’re designed to be durable, low-waste, and safer for both your home and the planet.
How do I start a garden on my balcony?
Creating a balcony garden starts with choosing sturdy planters and plants that thrive in your light and climate. Once planted, consistent watering and the right nutrients keep everything healthy and growing, even on a balcony.
