Beautiful Balconies
Lisabelle Gonsalves | May 24, 2007
As you walk through your beautiful neighbourhood, you look up at the buildings only to see clotheslines in every second balcony. What a way to spoil the view.
Don't let your balcony be the eyesore in your building. Here is how you can give it an awesome makeover.
Jazz Up the Walls
Paint the walls of your balcony in pastel shades of yellow, blue, pink or green. Stay away from bright shades as they might clash with the exteriors of the building. If you find pastel shades too boring, a textured wall should do the trick.
You could also try wall murals of clouds, a picturesque landscape or even an intriguing abstract painting. And for those of you who have enclosed balconies and want to funk up the place, go with graffiti!
Wondering where to dry the laundry? Opt for a foldable clothes rack. This way you can fold it up when it's not in use.
A Fresh Touch
Plants are great in balconies especially because they get the sunlight they need there. If you have a large balcony, line the walls with stone or plastic planters. Opt for slightly larger plants in the corners.
You could also decorate the box grill outside the balcony with plants. A row of potted plants along with flowering creepers make for a pretty picture.
A small water fountain is another cool idea for the balcony. The sound of gurgling water will add freshness to the space.
Charming and Lively
Hang up a Feng Shui wind chime in your balcony doorway for that pleasant tinkling sound on a breezy evening.
In an enclosed balcony, a beautiful painting can adorn one wall. Light it up with a spotlight from beneath. But if you don't want to spend too much money on an exclusive painting, just hang a couple of framed family photos of varying sizes and at different heights.
De-light-ful
If your balcony is going to be the new family hangout, then you need to keep it bright.
Crinkled paper lampshades in deep hues like burgundy and midnight blue fitted with yellow bulbs lend a warm tone to the ambience.
Deck the railing of the balcony with tiny diyas and wax candles in the late evening. Try bright coloured cloth lampshades with cutwork and mirror work in the festive season. Pretty diyas or candles can be placed in the corners of the balcony ledge.
Glow in the dark wall stick-ons would be great for the balcony outside the kid's room.
Get Together
Bring in a couple of foldable wooden chairs to make a comfy seating area. If you are worried about wooden chairs getting damaged in the monsoons, go in for cane chairs. Complement them with cushioned seats and backrests with tropical prints like flowers and butterflies in vibrant colours.
Don't forget a coffee table too. Place an ethnic brass pot on it for that dramatic effect. Now sit back and enjoy a hot cup of tea with your family | 
Post time 8-11-2007 01:50 AM
) nak gaya mcm dia jugak la.. 
