Today, the design of a balcony is as well thought out as that of the living room. An additional living space that everyone envies you when the sun comes out, the balcony is transformed into a cosy place where you can laze around. Here are some ideas for designing a balcony in the city, whether it's an outdoor living room or a dining area.

Choosing an atmosphere

Design or natural inspiration, harmonized decoration or eclectic pieces found during your travels, the layout of a balcony is not governed by any rule except that of feeling good. Before you start shopping, imagine the place where you want to recharge your batteries. Check out decorating blogs and magazines for trends.

Maintaining privacy on a balcony

If you are not lucky enough to have a terrace under the sky, you are certainly exposed to the gaze of your neighbours. You can cut yourself off from this annoying view with the following tips:

• Wood: for a straw hut style, opt for a roll of wooden rod. To be hung along the railing if you don't fancy a free-standing version or to be used as a privacy screen between your balcony and your neighbour's. It has the advantage of being an economical and natural solution.
  

• Balcony planting: If your balcony is large enough, you can install indoor planters in which you can plant shrubs or tall plants. If the configuration allows it, think of bamboo.
  
• Decorative partitions: you can find them in all the big garden centres! Made of aluminium, wood or coloured plastic, they come in simple versions or with accessories. Some allow you to hang plants on them.

The choice of outdoor furniture

The era of the white plastic stacking chair is over, and that's a good thing. Garden furniture manufacturers and designers are bursting with ideas to offer us pieces that combine originality and cleverness. To furnish a balcony in the city, we prefer furniture with minimalist volumes so as not to overload the space. You should also opt for materials that are easy to wash, such as woven resin, and that are resistant to bad weather. Is your balcony narrow? Think of the folding table that can be attached to the balcony and the stools.