How to Use Your Balcony in Winter

Whether you’re already a proud homeowner or looking to buy a Shared Ownership flat with a balcony, your private outdoor space is somewhere you can enjoy year-round – even when it’s cold outside. During the winter months, it’s the perfect place to get some fresh air and soak up the seasonal charms from the comfort of your home. If you want to turn your balcony into a cosy and inviting area for winter, check out these decorating ideas for inspiration.

Balcony Furnishing Ideas

Choose Waterproof Furnishings

Winter weather in the UK often equates to rainy days and nights, so opting for waterproof outdoor furniture for your balcony is a wise choice. It will be easy to maintain and likely see you through several seasons to come. This applies to your balcony’s soft furnishings too, such as water-repellent rugs and seat cushions, ensuring you don’t need to compromise on comfort while keeping your balcony looking its best. 

Opt for Foldable Furniture

If you’re short on space, a foldable bistro table and chairs can provide some flexibility to adapt the space throughout the seasons. For instance, you may want to use your balcony for sunbathing in summer and as a winter garden in the colder months. Which brings us to…

Ideas for Decorating Your Balcony

Create a Winter Garden Balcony

Winter gardens are a way to blend indoor and outdoor living, providing a green oasis in an urban environment. Create a winter garden balcony for your own enjoyment with plants that can survive in cool climes. Think seasonal foliage and flowers, such as evergreen pines and ivy. Hang planters and pots from railings or use multi-height stands to add interest at different levels – these are ideal for plants with trailing vines.

Set the Mood with Lighting

If you’re not so green-fingered or want to use your balcony as an outdoor living or dining space, decorating with candle lanterns and fairy lights will help you create a cosy, homely vibe during the long, dark evenings. 

Introduce Heating Elements 

Want to sit outside on your balcony during winter but find the temperature too low? That’s where heating elements, such as heated furniture, portable or mounted heaters, and blankets and throws come in. They’ll keep you warm when there’s a chill in the air. 

Extend the Usability of Your Balcony

Enjoy Winter Al Fresco Dining

Once you've decorated your outdoor space with furniture, lighting and a heat source, you can start making the most of it. From coffee in the morning to mulled wine in the evening, your balcony will be the perfect spot for al fresco drinks and dining. Use it for date night at home or hosting a casual dinner with friends. 

Relax During the Season

Additionally, you can use your balcony as an outdoor retreat during winter. Whether reading a book or watching the world go by, the space can be an extension of your living room, providing a place to kick back and relax.  

Find a Shared Ownership Flat with a Balcony

Do you plan on buying your first home soon? Consider purchasing a Shared Ownership flat with a balcony from NHG Homes. We have several developments across London featuring stylish apartments available through the part-buy, part-rent scheme. As a shared owner, you can decorate your home – including the balcony – as you wish. 

Apartments in North London

If you want to buy a home in North London, explore your options at Heybourne Park in Colindale or Gadwell Quarter in Woodberry Down. These two developments offer contemporary living in suburban areas with excellent connectivity.

Apartments in East London 

Is East London more your vibe? Discover Shared Ownership flats with balconies at Royal Albert Wharf, a tranquil waterside development in the historic Royal Docks neighbourhood. 

Apartments in South London

Step onto the property in South London at Kidbrooke Square. This housing development in the heart of Greenwich features high-specification homes with one, two or three bedrooms. Aspect in South London is launching in Spring 2025 featuring huge winter garden balconies.

Apartments in West London 

Make West London your base with a Shared Ownership home at The Perfume Factory in Acton. Alternatively, Lampton Parkside in Hounslow is the ideal location if you want a blend of city and country living.