For many homeowners, a balcony is a coveted feature, but it is not always utilized to its full potential. In Singapore, where homes and floor space are becoming increasingly smaller, a balcony can be a valuable asset. However, with the country’s humid climate, spending hours outdoors may not be the most appealing option.
A 50-year-old Singaporean homeowner shared her experience, saying, “The previous tenants would hang their clothes in this balcony space, and not really use it effectively. It’s kind of dingy. So, we gutted it completely. Now, I spend a great deal of time here, especially in the mornings.”
Reclaiming Unused Space
According to the Urban Redevelopment Authority, a private enclosed space, such as a balcony, is a semi-outdoor area that forms part of a strata unit. For those who have a balcony but don’t know what to do with it, it’s time to think creatively. Converting a non-utilized area into an integral part of the home’s design can add significant value to the property.
One idea is to create a dedicated space for pets. With the increasing importance of accommodating fur babies in the home, especially among millennials and young adult homeowners, a balcony can be transformed into a pet-friendly area. This can be as simple as adding artificial astro turf and a portable outdoor wash station.
Another option is to turn the balcony into an al fresco dining area. By adding a small round table, chairs, and a lamp, homeowners can create a warm and inviting ambiance. A rug and some plants can also help to create a cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for breakfast, dinner, or a quick morning coffee.
The 50-year-old Singaporean homeowner mentioned earlier enjoys spending time on her balcony, saying, “I’ll grab my breakfast from the kitchen and sit around my coffee table out here and just enjoy the view and have a nice breakfast. Just to pause, to breathe, no rush and no meetings to attend or deadlines to meet. Enjoying this time; no phone.”
Getting Creative with Balcony Design
For plant enthusiasts, a balcony can be the perfect spot to create an indoor-outdoor garden. This can be achieved by using a wall trellis, fabric wall pockets, hanging planter boxes, or even a wooden pallet. A vertical garden is also a great option for those with tiny balconies or who want to use the space for other purposes.
Homeowners can also consider repurposing their balcony as a special nook for hosting, a small WFH desk, or a dedicated section for a kids’ play area. For example, the owners of a 3-bedroom HDB Executive Maisonette converted their former balcony into extra room for their children to play in as part of an extension of the living room.
Homeowners can use blinds or Ziptrak for balcony design, creating a feeling of a “separate” space without altering the property’s original structure. They can use them to block out the sun or rain, or as an alternative to sliding doors.
Before making any changes to a balcony, it’s essential to check the legal restrictions, which vary per property type in Singapore. With a little creativity, a balcony can be transformed into a valuable and functional space that enhances the overall living experience.
Not every property in Singapore has a service yard, but they are more common than balconies. A service yard in Singapore is designed as semi-outdoor, and is often used to store heavy-duty appliances or washing lines.
