Balconies can be real problem areas for people who live in apartments. When space is very limited, it's often difficult to come up with a design that is both functional and attractive. Jamie Loft's innovative design for a tiny balcony includes a fountain, modular seating and a concealed barbecue. If you are inspired to makeover your own balcony, Jamie has a few tips: keep it simple, stick to one colour and don't clutter the area.

Design features

A water feature made of colourful strips of laminated perspex provides a focal point at one end of the balcony. A thin sheet of water flows over the top and down all four sides. Vertical wires on the wall behind the water feature support mandevillas (Mandevilla x amoena 'Alice du Pont') which bloom during summer when the balcony is used most. A three-piece setting made from hoop pine and stainless steel sets the mood for outdoor dining. Acrylic, hollow, sandblasted cubes double as both modular seating and stands for 'Hot Pink' planter boxes filled with Peruvian lilies (Alstroemeria 'Peruvian Princess'). A barbecue has been positioned over an existing air-conditioning unit. This makes good use of what was previously wasted space. The two items have been concealed under a cover of steel and timber that matches the outdoor dining setting. The flower colour of the mandevillas and Peruvian lilies picks up the gelato pink colours in the fountain. The balcony walls were painted an off white colour (Murowash 'Alto').

Further information

Balcony design by:

Jamie Loft
Out From the Blue
Shop 48 Church Street
Hawthorn, VIC, 3122
Phone: (03) 9855 1950
Fax: (03) 9855 1951
Email: jamie@outfromtheblue.com.au
Website: www.outfromtheblue.com.au

Copyright CTC Productions 2001