Finding the perfect apartment for rent often comes down to the extra features that make a house a home, and at Midwest Property Management, we know that in the summer, nothing beats a private balcony. Whether you are living in a high-rise in Edmonton or a townhome in Edmonton, that outdoor square footage is your personal sanctuary for sun-soaked mornings and breezy evenings.
However, many residents at Midwest Property Management struggle with how to decorate a small space effectively without cluttering it or violating lease agreements. If your balcony currently feels more like a storage area for winter tires than a summer oasis, it is time for a seasonal transformation. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to maximize your outdoor living area, focusing on the style, comfort, and functionality that Midwest Property Management residents value most.
Define Your Balcony’s Primary Function
Before purchasing furniture or plants for your Midwest Property Management suite, ask yourself how you plan to use the space. Is it a quiet corner for reading, a secondary dining area, or a vertical garden? Because apartment balconies at Midwest Property Management communities have limited footprints, trying to make the space “do everything” often results in it doing nothing well.
The Bistro Approach
If you enjoy morning coffee or light meals outdoors at your home, a classic bistro set is the gold standard. These are designed to be “scale-appropriate,” meaning they provide functionality without blocking the flow of movement. Choose foldable metal or weather-resistant wood options that can be easily tucked away during a heavy prairie thunderstorm, a common occurrence for our Midwest Property Management residents in Alberta.
The Outdoor Lounge
If relaxation is the priority for your lifestyle, skip the upright chairs in favour of a low-profile floor sofa or an Acapulco chair. These pieces create a relaxed, “resort” vibe right at your doorstep. By keeping the furniture low to the ground, you also maintain an unobstructed view of the city skyline or local park, making your balcony feel significantly larger.
Essential Decor Elements for Midwest Property Management Balconies
Once the layout is decided, you can begin layering in the decorative elements that bring “indoor” comfort to the outdoors of your Midwest Property Management rental.
Flooring and Base Layers
Concrete balcony floors at many Midwest Property Management properties can feel cold and industrial. A quick way to soften the space is to add an outdoor rug. Look for materials like polypropylene which are durable, UV-resistant, and easy to clean with a quick hose-down. Alternatively, interlocking wooden deck tiles are a popular DIY upgrade for Midwest Property residents, as they provide a premium look that is entirely removable when your lease ends.
Vertical Gardening and Greenery
In a Midwest Property Management apartment, floor space is at a premium, so you must think vertically. Hanging planters and railing boxes are excellent for adding splashes of colour to your home without taking up walking space.
- Pollinator-Friendly Flowers: Petunias and geraniums thrive in the Alberta sun found at Midwest Property Management locations.
- Edible Herbs: Mint, basil, and rosemary are hardy and smell fantastic in the summer heat outside your Midwest Property Management suite.
- Privacy Greens: Tall, potted grasses like Karl Foerster act as a natural screen between you and your neighbours, providing a sense of seclusion within your Midwest Property Management community.
Lighting and Ambiance for Evening Use
The transformation of your Midwest Property Management balcony isn’t complete until you address the lighting. Since most apartment balconies do not have multiple outdoor outlets, solar-powered or battery-operated options are your best friends. String lights draped along the railing of your home provide a soft, warm glow that makes the space usable well into the night. Consider adding a few LED lanterns on the floor to add depth to your outdoor oasis.
As you plan your summer upgrades, remember that Midwest Property Management offers various building styles, and each may have specific guidelines regarding what can be attached to railings. Always ensure your balcony decor is secured tightly to withstand high winds.
Creating a Low-Maintenance Sanctuary
The key to a successful summer balcony is choosing materials that can withstand the Canadian climate. Opt for “outdoor-grade” fabrics for your cushions and throws to keep your space looking fresh. When the season eventually turns, having a dedicated storage bin will ensure your Midwest Property Management balcony remains a stress-free environment.
If you are looking for a new space to call your own this season, explore our available rental listings to find a Midwest Property Management suite with the perfect view.
FAQ
Does Midwest Property Management allow balcony decor?
Yes, Midwest Property Management encourages residents to make their balconies feel like home!
How do I secure my balcony decor against high winds?
High-altitude balconies at Midwest Property Management buildings can experience significant wind gusts. Use heavy-duty zip ties to secure outdoor rugs to the railing, choose heavy ceramic pots rather than light plastic ones, and ensure all hanging planters at your residence are “over-the-rail” models rather than simple S-hooks.
What are the best plants for a shady apartment balcony?
If your balcony faces North or is shaded by other buildings, opt for shade-loving plants like Hostas, Ferns, or Begonias. These thrive in lower light conditions and will stay lush and green throughout the summer months at your Midwest Property Management property without the need for direct afternoon sun.