Part of the magic of the holidays is watching the neighborhood transform as people break out the wreaths, inflatables, and Christmas lights to celebrate the season. However, if you live in an apartment building you probably don’t have a yard or front porch to decorate. That doesn’t mean you need to miss out on the fun. Apartment balconies may be small, but with some clever tips and techniques you too can decorate an outdoor space for the holidays. Read on to learn how.
Tip #1 Stay Warm and Cozy
Even though it’s cold outside, you can still find ways to enjoy your balcony during the winter season. Upgrade your outdoor furniture with warm blankets and vibrant throw pillows (just make sure to bring them back inside or store them in a deck box when you are done). Look for them in shades of red, green, white or gold to add Christmas flair AND keep your guests cozy if you want to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa on the balcony.
Tip #2 Deck the Railings
The railings that surround a balcony provide plenty of opportunities for decoration. Easily wrap garland, christmas lights, or even both around the railings to give your balcony a glamorous look. Adding weather-approved bows and ornaments can add an additional pop of color to the space. Outer railings can also provide an area for you to hang a large wreath for your neighbors to see.
Tip #3 Go Green
It wouldn’t be Christmas without some holiday greenery. There’s a number of different greenery options that can be placed on a balcony, both artificial and authentic. In addition to wreaths and garlands, you can add hanging baskets filled with pine needles or holly berries. You can even add a small, weather-resistant Christmas tree to a corner of the balcony for a merry centerpiece.
Another option is creating a porch pot by filling a planter with pine boughs and ornaments. To learn how, check out our article, How to Make a Christmas Porch Pot.
Tip #4 Inflatables
Holiday inflatables are a simple way to add color and fun to a space. Many people use inflatables to decorate their yard, but small inflatables can also be added to a balcony. All you need to do is inflate the piece and ensure that it is properly weighed down by either tying the ropes to an anchor, sandbag, or even the railings of your balcony. Plus, once they are deflated they are easy to store until next year.
Tip #5 Light Up the Night
There are a number of ways to use lighting to create a magical winter atmosphere. String lights, inflatables, and hanging balls are all classic methods that can be used either on a house or a balcony. Candles and solar lanterns can also be used as a tabletop centerpiece on a patio table or accent for a side table.
Tip #6 Christmas Ornaments
Ornaments are some of the most versatile decorations around. They can be used in a number of ways on the balcony too. Place them in a bowl on an outdoor coffee table or fill a garden planter with them for a pop of color. You can also use clear thread to hang them from the ceiling for a unique floating look.
Tip #7 Poinsettias
These vibrant red-leafed flowers have long-served as a symbol of Christmas. Poinsettias are native to Mexico and thrive in a warm climate. If you live in a warm area you can fill planters with these beautiful flowers. If you live in a more frigid climate, you still capture the beauty of these plants by filling a planter with artificial plants.
Your apartment balcony may be small, but you can be sure to fill it up with Christmas cheer. These simple tips will help you transform your balcony into a winter wonderland. For more outdoor decorating tips for the holidays, check out our article, 10 Do’s and Don’ts to Safely Decorate Your Roof for Christmas.
