Summer is here, and that means it’s time for some outdoor grilling. Just because you happen to live in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. We’ll show you how to make the most out of this limited space on your apartment patio and how to enjoy the full backyard experience from your small outdoor balcony.
SEATING
The first step is to evaluate just how much space you have and determine what you could fit on your balcony patio. You have several options for furnishing your space.
7 Piece Dining Set
- Seats 6
- Ideal for large patio areas
- Table size: approx. 70” x 40” (varies by style)
5 Piece Dining Set
- Seats 4
- Perfect for larger and moderate sized patios
- Table size: approx. 44” x 44” (varies by style)
Bistro Set
- Seats 2
- A great solution for smaller patio areas
- Table size: ranging from approx. 26” – 32” (varies by style)
If your patio has open wall space, bench-style seating is also a versatile option. Room under the bench could be utilized for storage. You could also build a shallow bar along the edge of the balcony with bar stools for seating.
STORAGE
If horizontal space is scant on your patio, explore the option of vertical space. Make shelves your friend. Attach shelving to your wall or balcony railing. Now you have space to keep your grill tools, condiments or even an herb garden to grow your own fresh rosemary, cilantro or basil. If you are using a folding table and chairs, take advantage of hooks to hang them from the wall vertically when not in use.
GRILLS
Disclaimer: Not all rental properties allow outdoor grills. Check with your property manager first for their official policy.
The average apartment balconies are between 4 and 10 feet deep and 6 to 14 feet long. When choosing your barbecue grill, consideration must go into whether you want a standing grill or a low, portable grill, which may require that you sit or squat to use it. If your balcony is on the smaller side, a hanging grill that you could mount on your banister is an option. Let’s take a look at the different types of grills there are to help you determine what would best fit your needs and outdoor space.
Propane
This is a great option if you want a grill that heats up quickly and is easy to clean up. A drawback to this type of barbeque is that they are generally more expensive. In addition, refillable propane tanks are required.
Pros
- Heat up quickly. Can get started in roughly 10 minutes
- Easy to control temperature
- Easy to clean up
Cons
- More expensive
- Typically require more space
- Requires refillable tanks
Liquid Propane Tanks
- 20 lb steel tank holds 4.7 gallons
- Blue Rhino or AmeriGas offer a service to trade in your tanks for a new filled up tank
- Purchase an empty tank at for roughly $30 and get it refilled at a number of different stores like U-haul or Costco. Prices on propane is varied.
Charcoal
The perfect grill choice for barbecue traditionalists. Because it burns at a higher temperature, it could be difficult to control and takes longer to properly heat up. Charcoal grills are offered in an array of sizes.
Pros
- Smoky flavor
- Grill marks
- Able to sear or blacken foods
- More economically priced
- Available in smaller sizes that are easier to transport
- Easy cleanup
Cons
- Requires a longer amount of time to properly heat up
- Burns at a higher temperature, harder to control
- Can’t be turned off
- Needs charcoal, if you grill frequently, the cost of charcoal could add up to more than gas grills
Electric
This option is the safest and most widely accepted in rental properties. An electric grill is inexpensive and easy to clean. Some models could even be stowed away when not in use.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Heat up quickly
- Does not require fuel, only an electrical outlet
- Ideal for a small balcony
Cons
- No grill flavor
- Does not reach a high temperature for searing or blackening foods
DECOR
Transform your patio while giving your backyard a personal touch through decorative items.
Lighting
String Lights
- A great way to visually open up your space and also provide a great source of light.
- Versatile and could be hung from your balcony railing or overhead.
Chinese Paper Lanterns
- Add a unique exotic aesthetic.
- Diffused lighting offers a widespread soft glow.
Both string lights and paper lamps are reasonably priced and widely available.
Plants will make your patio feel more like a backyard and less like a balcony.
Popular Potted Plants
- ferns
- begonias
- succulents
- herbs
If you don’t have the room to accommodate several potted plants, you could go with a vertical wall planter.
Other Visual Additions
- Bamboo or wooden screens
- Separate your balcony from your neighbor’s and provide more privacy.
- Wall art
- Vintage tin bar signs
- Neon signs
- An old surfboard
DISCLAIMER: Of course rules and regulations on using your apartment patio to grill vary from city to city and state to state, so be sure to check with your property manager or the front office before grilling.
Sources:
- http://modishspace.com/2013/fantastic-idea-for-a-small-balcony-a-small-table-for-anything.html
- http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-make-a-balcony-bench/
- http://uncrate.com/stuff/balcony-grill/
- http://amazingribs.com/BBQ_buyers_guide/grills/charcoal_grills_vs_gas_grills.html
- http://bbq.about.com/od/grills/f/f062804d.htm