As summer arrives in full swing, there’s no better time to make the most of your balcony or patio. Whether you have a sweeping view or a compact corner, your outdoor space has the potential to become your favourite spot to unwind, connect, and recharge. With just a few thoughtful updates, you can create a space that feels like a true extension of your home designed for comfort, personality, and sunshine.
Here are a few simple, impactful ways to upgrade your balcony this season:
Define Your Outdoor Purpose
What do you want from your balcony? A peaceful morning coffee nook? A plant-filled escape? A space for casual meals or catching up with friends? Defining how you want to use your space will help guide your choices from furniture and layout to lighting and accessories.
In Calgary, one outdoor space was turned into a beautiful, funky balcony with modern and colourful pops that come from flowers and paintings. Making for an ideal spot for your morning tea or coffee, or your late-night beverage, where you can watch the sun go down over the mountains with the orange sun beaming off those big downtown Calgary skyscrapers, making for a perfect place to kick back and relax in a usually busy and bustling downtown core, no matter when you feel like being there.
Layer in Comfort
You don’t need much to make your balcony feel cozy. A weather-friendly rug, a couple of cushions, and a comfortable chair or floor pouf can instantly elevate the space. Opt for soft, breathable materials, and don’t be afraid to mix patterns and textures for a thoughtfully curated look.
In Saskatoon, the goal was to create a “kick back with a book and a blanket” vibe. With the addition of a large couch, privacy screen, fluffy blanket, tall planter, and a few stools to rest your feet, the space was transformed into a personal oasis, perfect for unwinding after a fast-paced day. String lights were also added to keep the space glowing after sunset, offering warm, ambient lighting ideal for summer evenings spent with a book and a cup of tea—or with a friend and your favourite drink.
Add Life with Greenery
Plants are one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to transform your balcony. Hanging baskets, potted herbs, railing planters, or even a vertical garden can turn the space into a lush, calming retreat. New to plant care? Start with low-maintenance favourites like snake plants, succulents, or pothos.
Set the Mood with Lighting
Good lighting can take your balcony from basic to inviting. String lights, solar lanterns, or LED candles help create a warm, relaxing glow that lasts well into the evening. For the most convenience, choose battery-operated or solar-powered options that don’t require an outlet.
Maximize Limited Spaces
Balconies have limited spacing but that doesn’t mean they can’t be functional. Consider folding tables, wall hooks, and multipurpose furniture like a bench with storage. Use vertical space with shelving or planters to make room for everything you need.
In Edmonton, this balcony was transformed into a bright, open space perfect for soaking in the big blue Alberta sky. A colourful rug and artwork add personality to the cozy lounge area, complete with a couch, planters, and a table—ideal for enjoying a meal outdoors or turning your balcony into a breezy work-from-home setup. Just out of frame, a brand-new BBQ was added—perfect for hosting summer cookouts with friends and family, and making the most of those long sunny evenings.
Let Your Style Shine
Your balcony is an expression of your lifestyle and taste. Whether your vibe is boho, minimalist, colourful, or cottage-core, bring in pieces that reflect you. Outdoor art, patterned cushions, or even a small water feature can go a long way in personalizing your setup.
Celebrating Summer: The Balcony Makeover Contest
This summer, Boardwalk was proud to once again host our annual Balcony Makeover Contest—inviting Resident Members in Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, London, and Brampton to share why their outdoor space deserved a refresh.
Our talented Capital Design Team selected a group of winning Resident Members and brought visions to life—transforming each balcony into a beautifully reimagined retreat. The results were stunning, and the creativity from our community was nothing short of inspiring.
Stay Inspired and Get Involved
Whether you're lounging under string lights, growing fresh herbs, or simply enjoying the breeze, your balcony is part of what makes your home feel complete. While this year’s contest has wrapped, the inspiration is just getting started.
Browse on our website or follow us on Instagram and Facebook to explore the beautiful transformations, gather fresh ideas, and stay in the loop on upcoming events and contests in your community.
Here’s to long afternoons, warm nights, and the simple joy of balcony lounging.