Designing Balcony Gardens

Ideas for a balcony garden created by a Sydney landscape designer

Small though balcony gardens are, they still offer many possibilities. For many years, we have designed balconies of all shapes and sizes in Sydney, and those that turn out beautifully all begin with a definite goal. What is it that you want the space to offer you?

Should you choose to only add a few outdoors pots and call it complete, that’s great, but if you want your space to work for you and make you smile, a bit more planning is necessary.

Here are the tips I keep in mind whenever I design a balcony garden.

First, try focusing your thoughts upwards.

Trying to place too much on the floor is the biggest mistake people make. Rather, I prefer to consider things from the vertical viewpoint. Wall-mounted planters, unique screens, and trellises with creeping plants are great for decorating the area without stealing much space. You can choose not to have greenery on every surface. Just a few large items can have a bigger effect than a lot of tiny ones.

Be honest about the conditions

Bondi’s balconies are not exactly like the ones in Surry Hills. Wind, sunshine, and how high the building is all are involved. I always pay attention to what the site is capable of. This calls for choosing plants that do well and require very little effort, using light pots, and planning irrigation properly. You probably do not want to drop your watering can in your living room every few days.

For a client who wants lush and leafy, I frequently include reliable strappy natives such as lomandra or dianella since they are strong, look great in the wind, and don’t require too much attention.
Ensuring privacy is important, but avoid doing it excessively

Individuals do not want to be made uncomfortable by outsiders looking at them in close quarters. However, you don’t have to separate yourself from others. I use gentle screening, for example, grasses or climbing plants on steel frames, to keep the area private without shutting it off completely. If you do it successfully, you create a separation that still makes sure there is plenty of light and air.

Using textures improves every design

The first impression of most balconies is chilly, since they have cold floors, metal railings, and sharp edges. Texture can be very effective in helping to evoke emotions. If you have timber decking, smooth rendered planters, maybe even a mini area of gravel or loose stone, that could be enough. Just placing a large, unique concrete pot with the suitable plant can alter the mood of any space.

Be sure to design for people’s daily practices, not only for appearance.

While Pinterest gives plenty of inspiration, I always keep in mind how people are really going to use the space. Is sitting in this outdoor area while drinking coffee your usual morning habit? Are you searching for a place where you could read, cultivate herbs, or hang out with several friends?

After the strategy is understood, the design is easily set up. Sometimes, I suggest that bench seating include planters to preserve space behind the backrest, and a little table that can fold away for use when required. Each small detail plays an important role.

 

Lighting should also not be forgotten.

Everyone tends to finish lighting at the end, but it’s one of the most important parts. Simply adding low-voltage or LED lights under a bench can add a cozy atmosphere in the space once evening arrives. The goal is not only for the building to function during the day but also at night.

 

Some of our balcony projects:

Potts Point Luxury Balcony

Where: Potts Point
The Challenge: Elevated building heights generate unpredictable wind conditions throughout the premises.
Our Fix: Our solution for wind protection included creating built-to-order garden containers loaded with strong coastal plants rosemary and coastal banksia and lomandra. The balcony protection includes green walls which help block wind while an elevated seating section provides open view access.

View the full project

 

Final thoughts

You do not need a lot of space to enjoy a lovely balcony garden. The most suitable ones blend into the house and aren’t simply added at the last minute. By following some guidelines with plants and intentional design, rooftops can become a quiet haven close to a busy city.

If your balcony seems like just extra space at the moment — we can make it much more usable.

Your dream balcony garden needs your decision to start building it right now.

Whoever you are in Sydney from the harbourfront to the leafy inner suburbs will benefit from a personalised balcony garden because it makes your space into an peaceful retreat.

Space Landscape Designs will transform your balcony through design work that builds a personal outdoor getaway according to your unique preferences. Contact Space Landscape Designs at this time to receive a free evaluation session.