In the realm of home improvement, size should never be a limitation. Erin DeCarlo, faced with a modest 58-square-foot balcony, embarked on a transformative journey employing five renter-friendly DIY projects. In a space that was once mundane and overwhelmingly brown, Erin envisioned a vibrant oasis that resonated with her and her husband’s personalities. The balcony, overlooked until the Spring 2023 One Room Challenge, became the final frontier in their quest to make their apartment feel truly like home.
A Palette of Possibilities: Pre-Transformation Scene
Before Erin’s creative intervention, the balcony suffered from monotony and a touch of dinginess. Plain wooden planks covered the floor, and inadequate weatherproofing left items water-damaged and discolored. Erin, determined to turn the outdoor space into a personal retreat, sought to inject life into the balcony’s atmosphere. The goal was to create a space for reading, enjoying morning coffee, and extending the well-decorated vibe of the apartment to this often-overlooked area.
Flooring Elegance: Snap-Together Tile Solution
Erin’s initial move was a flooring upgrade using beige snap-together tiles. Recognizing the need for a reversible solution due to rental constraints, she opted for RUNNEN outdoor floor tiles from IKEA. With a hacksaw, Erin tailored the tiles to fit the dimensions of her balcony. The beige tiles not only brightened the space but also offered a practical and removable enhancement.
Inclusive Comfort: DIY Dog Bed and Pillows
To ensure the entire family, including their beloved dog, could enjoy the revamped space, Erin embarked on a no-sew project—a dog bed and pillows. Using fabric glue, pet bed poly-fil, and boho blue and white fabric, Erin crafted cozy additions that blended comfort with style.
Reviving Relics: Upcycled Coffee Table
The weathered coffee table from the balcony’s previous state underwent a stunning transformation. Erin, instead of discarding it, refurbished the table with metallic spray paint and weatherproofing. The result exceeded expectations, with Erin expressing joy at owning a unique piece that perfectly matched her envisioned aesthetic.
Illuminating Ambiance: DIY Boho Chandelier
Undeterred by challenges, Erin tackled the creation of a DIY chandelier using a boho basket from IKEA. Removing the handles and incorporating a remote-controlled, battery-operated puck light, she achieved an eye-catching lighting feature. Hanging the lantern proved to be a task, requiring the ingenuity of Erin’s 6’2″ husband, a step ladder, and a claw tool to secure it with an outdoor-friendly command hook.
Macrame Magic: Plant Hanger and Final Flourish
Completing the balcony’s makeover, Erin crafted a macrame plant hanger, surprisingly simpler than anticipated. Hung on the siding as a decorative element, the plant hanger added an artistic touch and drew attention upward. Accompanied by hanging potted plants and string lights, Erin achieved a cozy and complete balcony.
A Tranquil Aftermath: Reveling in the Transformation
Erin reflects on the post-makeover balcony with satisfaction. The once-bland space has evolved into a calming retreat, illuminated with brighter tones and inviting warmth. The success of the DIY projects has not only added personal flair but has also turned a once-overlooked balcony into a cherished space—one that beckons for moments of relaxation and enjoyment.
