Not all balconies are built equal.

Heres our strategy for getting the most out of yours.

Get ready for a summer of curling up with a good book while getting some sun andat-home coffee dates.

view of apartment balcony with plants and pouf from inside

Credit:KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images

Do you live alone?

Get comfortable with an armchair that turns reading the morning paper into the highlight of your day.

Fill it with cushions and blankets, and make it inviting for yourself.

table with flowers by hanging chair on porch

Credit: Karin Lidbeck Brent

Do you live with a partner or a roommate?

Nesting Furniture

If lack of space is a concern on your balcony, try nesting furniture.

These pieces are built to fit together in a way that optimizes the layout.

painted wooden boxes with vegetables

Credit: Peter Krumhardt

They can also be stacked and stored away and are often lightweight and mobile.

Just find a corner and place it over your seating.

If youre a little tight on floorspace, balcony curtains or awnings serve the same purpose without the bulkiness.

Patio mounted plant wall

Credit:Jason Donnelly

Lather on some sunscreen and kick back on a trusty Chaise lounge chair.

Consider Your Climate

Keep in mind what the weather is like throughout the seasons.

If you prefer fuss-free items, modern plastic furniture serves as a low-maintenance alternative.

Patio with lime wash walls

Credit:Carson Downing

Plus, you get fresh produce to use in your garden-to-table dishes.

Climber plants have a unique feature called aerial roots.

Because these plants reach for the sun by themselves, theyre relatively self sufficient.

Just be awaresome buildings dont allow these boxes because they could fall and injure someone.

Check with your building super or HOA before buying them.

The options are now hyper-realistic and hassle-free.

Consider where the electric sockets are located in your balcony.

Some balconies might not have any, and then youll have to consider getting battery powered lighting.

Consider the color of your building, furniture, and tiling while deciding on the shade.

Candles (Bonus: Insect Repellents!)