We recently downsized from a large apartment to a smaller unit directly below our old home. I’ve been transforming the new balcony over the past few weeks, giving it a cozy, lived-in look using scavenged and repurposed pieces. This tour will show how a few simple projects and reused items can turn a compact outdoor space into a welcoming spot without spending a lot.
This balcony sits just below the one I showed last year. From the top level you can see the same view—we chose a smaller section of the wraparound terrace for privacy and quiet, since the other sides face busy streets.
The area we use is compact but bright, and it’s an ideal canvas for upcycled decor and practical DIY solutions that maximize every inch.
At the back of the balcony I installed a colorful fence made from simple materials. The branches I originally used dried out, so I reused faux flowers from last year’s wreath to add fullness and a burst of color. Reusing items like this keeps costs low and gives the space a playful, eclectic feel.
Near the fence you’ll find a few experimental planters—my succulents didn’t fare well this time, but they still add rustic character. I also repurposed parts of an old barbecue grill into a nautical lantern and a spaceship-shaped planter, proving that metal scraps have new life as unique outdoor accents.
Looking toward the opposite end, there’s plenty of room and a mix of planters—some filled with plants, others repurposed to hold decorative items. My husband grows tomatoes in one corner, and a few aloe vera plants are tucked in for their practical uses.
Aloe vera is practical for minor sunburns and adds greenery that’s easy to maintain. One of mine could use a trim, but overall they thrive in this sunny spot.
The view from the balcony is pleasant and opens up the small living area while connecting the space to the neighborhood scenery.
The back of the seating area shows our pallet couch, a quick project that took about 15 minutes to assemble. It may look imperfect, but it’s comfortable and functional—the whole point is to have a relaxing place to unwind in the evening.
We added an umbrella for shade, although we usually only use the balcony after 5 pm when the sun shifts away. The shaded evenings are ideal for relaxing outdoors.
For comfort, I replaced multiple cushions with a fold-up mattress and layered pillows in coordinating fabrics—red tones are a favorite in our home. The mattress doesn’t span the entire length of the pallet, which leaves space at one end to use as a small side surface.
In front of the seating, a table made from the base of an old high chair and a repurposed dresser drawer serves as a practical tabletop. A recovered vintage milk crate stool acts as extra seating and a focal point.
The “rug” is actually a heavy-duty piece of vintage woven fabric we’ve had for years. I stitched on contrasting fabric and cut a fringe to give it a finished look. It adds color and texture while remaining durable for outdoor use.
The fabrics for the pillows complement the rug and bring warmth to the area. Nearby, I display a piece of abstract art and a beaded lantern made from vintage copper pots—both repurposed into charming balcony accents.
One favorite project is the two-sided chalkboard stand, from which I hang simple lanterns made from repurposed jars. The chalkboard adds personality and a place for little notes, while the jars provide soft, flickering light after dark.
The other side of the stand holds additional lanterns and decorative accents that catch the evening light.
The dresser drawer table usually holds food and drinks during gatherings, but when it’s not in use I arrange a small beach-inspired vignette: driftwood, jars filled with shells, and a candle tucked into a glass container for a relaxed coastal feel.
I borrowed the idea of placing a candle in a covered glass container from a fellow blogger. Keeping the lid on when the candle is unlit helps protect it from dust and keeps the sand and shells inside neat and pretty.
The covered jar is both decorative and practical, and it complements other small groupings around the balcony.
When evening falls, the atmosphere changes as candles and tea lights create a warm, intimate glow. I usually set out about ten tea lights to softly illuminate the space for relaxing after dark.
A final evening shot highlights a copper lid converted into a small lantern—simple projects can look quite charming in the right light.
Overall, this balcony was assembled largely from leftover items and repurposed pieces. Drawers make great trays and tabletops, vintage fabrics become rugs or cushions, and small repairs or creative pairings can transform ordinary objects into decorative treasures.
This tour shows that decorating a small balcony on a budget is possible when you look at everyday items with fresh eyes. With a few upcycled projects and thoughtful arrangements, the space becomes warm and inviting—a perfect spot to relax in the evenings.
If you enjoy creative upcycling and small-space decorating, consider saving ideas or sharing them with friends. Inspiration can come from many sources, and a little imagination goes a long way.
If you like these ideas, share them or save the images for later inspiration. Small changes and repurposed treasures can create a big impact in your outdoor living space.
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