How to Make Your Apartment Balcony Cosy this Winter

Add protection from the weather

Whether you plan to use the space for yourself or for outdoor entertaining, providing weather protection is fundamental to being able to use your balcony throughout the whole year. You might consider installing a retractable awning for flexibility, so you have rain cover in the winter and shade in the summer. Meanwhile, wind barriers are just as effective for giving you privacy on your balcony while also protecting you from harsh winds.

For a more permanent solution, consider installing plexiglass panels or weatherproof roller blinds that can be adjusted based on the weather conditions. These elements can also be combined to work together to create a comfortable microclimate within your balcony space.

Ramp up the heat

The right level of heating transforms your balcony from a cold outdoor space to a cosy retreat that you can use all year long. You might want to add permanent heating options like infrared or electric patio heaters which provide consistent warmth, and can be mounted on walls to save space, or for more flexibility, invest in a portable propane heater.

When you’re choosing heating solutions, you always want to prioritise safety. Make sure there’s proper ventilation around the equipment, maintain safe distances from flammable materials, and make sure the products are suitable for outdoor use.

Decorate with cosy furnishings

You can treat your balcony as another room in your home when it comes to décor, adding weather-resistant pieces that can withstand cold temperatures and moisture without becoming worn and drab. Invest in high-quality outdoor cushions with weatherproof covers, and keep extra throw pillows in water-resistant fabrics nearby for added comfort.

An outdoor rug not only adds warmth underfoot but also helps define the space and add visual interest. You may also want to consider furniture that can be easily moved or folded away when severe weather strikes. Built-in bench seating maximises space efficiency and can incorporate hidden storage for blankets and cushions, which you can pull out when guests come over or if the temperature dips in the evenings.

Add practical lighting

Thoughtful lighting transforms your balcony into a magical winter hideaway, but it also makes it more practical for use on those shorter days when we lose the light earlier. Layer your lighting with a combination of ambient and task options for the perfect atmosphere in the winter. String lights and LED strips create a warm, inviting ambiance, while solar-powered lanterns provide sustainable illumination.

You could also add battery-operated candles for a safer alternative to real flames while maintaining a cosy space. Finally, don't forget practical lighting if you want to use the balcony for reading or dining outside – weather-resistant reading lamps, exterior styles, and solar lights ensure your balcony remains functional after sunset.

Winterise your plants

Balconies can look plain and grey without a splash of colour, and there’s no better way to do that than by bringing nature into the space. Maintaining greenery during winter months adds life and interest to your balcony, but you need to select cold-hardy plants like evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, and winter-blooming flowers to create year-round interest.

Protect any existing plants you have by moving them closer to the walls for warmth and using frost protection covers during extreme cold spells. Decorative planters can double as windbreaks when strategically placed, while raised plant stands improve drainage and air circulation. If you live in an area where live plants struggle, you could even incorporate artificial plants to add colour without the need for maintenance.

Maintenance and safety tips

Regular maintenance ensures your winter balcony remains safe and enjoyable throughout the colder season. Try to establish a weekly cleaning routine to prevent dirt and debris building up on furniture and textiles, and protect furniture with appropriate covers during severe weather. It’s also worth creating a winter maintenance checklist that includes checking weather seals, tightening loose fixtures, and inspecting heating equipment to avoid any accidents or faults.

Safety should be your top priority when designing your winter balcony. Ensure all furniture and installations comply with the building’s weight restrictions and are properly secured against winter winds. You also need to follow fire safety guidelines when using heaters or fire features, making sure there are proper clearances and ventilation. Check electrical connections regularly, using only outdoor-rated equipment and weather-protected outlets, and develop an emergency plan that includes securing or storing items during severe weather warnings.