Balcony Bliss: Outdoor Furniture for a Small Space

If your outdoor space more “cozy balcony” than “sprawling backyard”, you’re not alone! With more of us embracing apartment living or downsizing our homes, making the most of a compact outdoor area is a hot topic here in NZ. We regularly hear from people wondering what outdoor furniture truly fits a small balcony or limited deck space without feeling cramped.

At Outside Space NZ, we love a good challenge. So, we set up our very own “Small Space Challenge” to show you just how much potential even the tiniest outdoor area has! We worked with a space that’s 1.9 metres by 1.4 metres (the size of the black rug in the pics below) to see how we could comfortably seat two people, allowing them to enjoy their outdoor living experience truly. Keep reading, or watch our Small Space Challenge clip!

Here are four solid options we came up with to transform your small outdoor space into your little slice of paradise:

1. The Classic & Comfy Duo: Directors’ Chairs with a Sidekick

For a versatile and stylish solution, consider pairing two of our new directors’ chairs with a small outdoor side table. These chairs are a game-changer this season, available in three beautiful colours: crisp white, warm bone, and sophisticated charcoal. We can personally vouch for their comfort – we loved sitting in them during our shoot! Plus, they fold away, which is a fantastic space-saving outdoor furniture feature, perfect for tucking away when you need extra room.

2. Laid-Back Luxury: Our Lazy Sunday Relax Chairs

If ultimate comfort is your priority, our Lazy Sunday relax chairs are an absolute winner. Made from durable outdoor PE rattan in black and supported by a sturdy steel frame, these chairs offer a slight recline that just begs you to kick back and relax. It’s always fun to see the surprised and delighted expressions on our customers’ faces when they first sit in them – they are that comfortable! (fun fact: we sell plenty of these chairs for interiors, as well)  Again, you’ve got plenty of options for outdoor side tables to complement them, in various colours and styles.

3. Compact Comfort: The Bask Two-Seater Sofa

Who says a small space can’t have a sofa? Our Bask two-seater sofa is designed with compact areas in mind, measuring just 1.55 metres wide. It fits perfectly within our challenge space, proving you can have a dedicated spot for lounging. With six options for outdoor fabric, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to customising your look, but we’ve shown it here in Agora Coco- our new season colour. There’s even enough room left for a small outdoor side table for your coffee or a good book.

4. Maximise Your Lounge: The Happy Hour 3-Seater Sofa

For those who want to fully maximise their seating, we pushed the limits of our challenge space with the Happy Hour 3-seater sofa. At exactly 1.9 metres wide, it perfectly spans the length of our challenge area, offering generous seating for more than two or plenty of room to stretch out. This option truly shows how you can make a small outdoor area feel expansive and inviting, shown below in Sunbrella ‘Linen Look’.

A Few Golden Rules for Kitting Out Your Small Outside Space:

Beyond choosing the right furniture, here are some extra tips for creating your ideal small outdoor living area:

• Measure, Measure, Measure: Before you fall in love with a piece, always double-check its dimensions against your space. Every centimetre counts!
• Think Multi-Functional: Look for items that can serve more than one purpose. An outdoor storage box that doubles as a bench, or a stool that works as a side table, can be incredibly useful.
• Go Vertical: Don’t forget your walls! Vertical gardens, shelving, or wall-mounted lighting can add personality without taking up precious floor space.
• Light It Up: Good outdoor lighting can make a small space feel magical and inviting after dark. Think fairy lights, lanterns, or a stylish floor lamp.
• Embrace Greenery: Plants instantly add life and a touch of nature. Opt for slender pots or hanging planters to save floor space.
• Colour & Texture: Use light colours to make the space feel larger and add texture with outdoor rugs and cushions to create warmth and personality.
• Quality Over Quantity: Investing in durable outdoor furniture made from materials like powder-coated aluminium or high-quality outdoor rattan means your pieces will last longer and look better, even in compact areas.

We hope our Small Space Challenge gives you some great ideas and shows you just what’s possible, no matter how tiny your outdoor footprint. Your balcony or small deck can absolutely be your favourite spot to unwind!

Kerry is the co-owner of Outside Space NZ, offering a range of contemporary outdoor furniture for coastal living kiwis seeking premium quality products and design at achievable prices.