How to choose furniture to make the most of a balcony garden

The success of this space lies in choosing furniture that is both practical, stylish and makes the most of the space available. Isabelle Palmer of the Balcony Gardner recommends checking with an architect or structural engineer how much weight the space can take, and also advises checking that the balcony is waterproof, window boxes are secure and heavy containers are placed near load baring walls. With this in mind, here's eight pieces for the perfect balcony space...

Hanging Egg Chair

This Hanging Egg Chair, £285, from Grace & Glory, will make a fab addition to any balcony. Accessorise it with a sheepskin fleece, cushions and a blanket for a truly inviting escape. Ensure that you attach the hanging chair to a sturdy and solid
ceiling or beam so that you are safe when sitting in it.

1950s Acapulco chair

The 1950s Acapulco chair is enjoying a huge revival and will give your
balcony a stylish and on-trend look. Available in orange, blue or white
from Lagoon (£250), the chair evokes an era when Acapulco became the technicolor destination for the
American jet set with even JFK and Jackie honeymooning there.

Vertical Garden

Even if you’re short on space
there’s no reason not to grow your own kitchen herbs. Many new compact
garden planting solutions are hitting the market each month. The
Vertical Garden by urbanature on DeWanda.com, £152.72, is a non fussy, practical solution for growing in compact spaces and is perfect for balconies.

Out There Interiors

A sturdy yet stylish seating spot is essential to any balcony space, but with restricted space, opt for a single chair with a bistro-style table. These pieces from Out There Interiors (chair £152 and table £197), which can be folded and packed away in the winter, are finished in a black and red paint for an industrial look that will add a modern edge to your outdoor space.

The Balcony gardener

Turn your balcony into a fully blossomed garden with these clever pieces from The Balcony Gardener, which will allow you all the joy of plants and shrubs without a lawn or flowerbed in sight. The English Country Garden set, £565, features four granite effect planters, each complete with shrubs and seasonal flowers; the perfect pieces for a hassle-free balcony update.

Tinsmiths

Invest in outdoor lighting to allow for nighttime enjoyment of your balcony space. Choose a period style for a smart and traditional look;
Tinsmiths Brass Bulkhead Lanterns are perfect for porches, balconies and other outdoor spaces and feature a heavy brass casting that is both practical and stylish. From £70 each.

Lights 4 Fun

Outdoor lighting should also be considered for your plants; investing in stylish spotlights will allow them to stand out and shine after daylight hours.
A safe bet is Lights4fun’s solar LED spotlights (£14.90 for two), which are waterproof, simple to install and have the solar panel attached to an adjoining wire meaning they can be placed anywhere.

Garden Trading

If you are fortunate to have a window overlooking your balcony, position planters in front to create a stunning feature that will look good from inside the house. These Vence Planter's from Garden Trading (£80.00 for a set of two) are carefully shaped from zinc-plated steel, which makes them a hardwearing and durable option. Inspired by the shape of a historic washing dolly, these pieces have a unique character and heritage charm.

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