Design lessons and styling tips co-star in this stellar balcony scene by designer Joel Bray.

This has to be the sweetest, most chic tiny balcony. We would love to look out at summer in the city from this perfect perch, where designer Joel Bray ekes out lounge and dining zones that are distinct yet connected. His tips for designing and styling help you bring star power to your balcony seating.

INSIDER ADVICE

→ Quality composite flooring elevates the entire look and feels great underfoot. For flow, match to the interior floor colour as closely as possible.

→ “It’s not a huge space, but I avoided compact furniture to keep it comfortable,” says Joel. He chose two generously sized armchairs that don’t completely block the view out the windows from inside.

→ “Avoid overly matching outdoor furniture sets. Mix things up with different shapes and materials, just as you would indoors,” advises Joel.

→ Include perennials with punch. When properly planted, grasses and boxwoods are low maintenance and look great even in the off-season.

→ Choose one planter style and use different sizes to create small groupings.

→ Keep accent colours consistent. Says Joel, “Pulling from the blooming sedum, we repeated this rusty blush tone in the accent pillows and dinnerware.”