6 Steps For Adding a Room to Your Apartment Without Picking Up a Hammer

Apartment and condo dwellers love the fact that their home does not demand outdoor maintenance. Their weekends and evenings can be used for sports, hobbies or just relaxing.

It is interesting however, that most unit dwellers still want a balcony or patio connected to their home. I think it is a natural desire to crave time in our own outdoor sanctuary, no matter what the size. Make the most of your space by creating a retreat only steps from your main living area.

1. Begin your project with clearing everything from the area. Identify anything that must be stored on your patio or balcony, such as bicycles, and throw away or find alternative storage for everything else. You will probably be surprised at how much square footage will actually be available for you to exploit.

2. It is now time to create a new living space. Begin at the floor. A new outdoor rug will give definition and warmth to the area. Think about the flooring on the inside of your apartment. You want your eye to flow from the inside room to the outside area so choose colors that work together. If your room is decorated in quiet neutrals then it would be jarring to have primary colors on the other side of the glass door. A better choice would be to choose a rug with a border in a soft pumpkin or green sage. You are adding color but not as boldly.

3. Furnishings are the second and most important step in creating a relaxing retreat. Do you have enough room for a table? If so this will double the use of the space as you create a new dining area for entertaining or enjoying a quiet breakfast. If you do not have a table in your space at least add seating. It should be comfortable as well as weatherproof. Place a small table arms length from the seating to hold your beverage and reading materials.

4. Now that you have the basics, it is time to add the personality. If your view looks right onto your neighbors patio, you can create privacy with plants. Mixing tall and medium heights in large planters will create a natural wall between your spaces. Plastic planters are the least expensive but using real pottery gives your outdoor room a richer feel. Take a little time and find the style that matches your taste. I love the ones that have a glazed finish in a rich color.

5. If you get enough sunshine on your balcony, you can also start a container garden. Tomatoes, radishes, pole beans and eggplant are some of the vegetables that do well in limited space. Imagine having fresh vegetables right outside your door!

It will bring out your hospitality gene and you will love to have people over to entertain.

6. Accessories can be one simple candle or a collection of whimsical figurines. Seasonal table centerpieces help you change your look with little effort. Your local craft store specializes in holiday decorations that work well for your table. If your area is protected from the rain, toss a snuggly throw over the back of one of the chairs in the fall. You will be even more tempted to spend time on your terrace.

Do not neglect a prime area of your apartment or condo. A little effort can turn it into your favorite room in the home.