Balcony Bar Ideas That Can Transform Your Outdoor Space

If your balcony is on the cozy side, there are many small-space outdoor dining options that stray away from bulky tables and chairs. Try a piece with multipurpose use, such as a storage bench to maximize seating options, and keep blankets on hand for when the temperature dips. Invest in a one-and-done piece with built-in cushions or get creative by adding colourful pillows to a simple wooden bench like this outdoor storage bench.

ÄPPLARÖ Storage Bench, IKEA, $129.

If you’re serving drinks while you’re entertaining outside, having all of your cocktail-making essentials handy can take your balcony bar set-up to the next level. However, not every outdoor area has the space to park a bar cart permanently outside.

A fun solution? A bar cart on wheels makes it easy to take your cocktail essentials from the kitchen to the patio. Add luxury to your space with a bright indoor-outdoor cart (which can also double as a plant stand when you’re not entertaining) or refurbish a thrifted piece with a bright new paint job and some vintage glassware.

Indoor or Outdoor Folding Metal Rolling Serving Cart, Amazon, $132.

String lights remain a must-have for creating a soft, ambient glow and festive atmosphere for your balcony or outdoor space. Use small bulbs to wrap around banisters or create a twinkling centrepiece, and larger solar powered bulbs to sting across your patio or balcony.

LE LED String Lights, Amazon, $23.

Adding plants instantly lifts the mood in any space and makes things feel more festive. Create a bold accent wall any time of year using artificial ivy garland, or scatter potted plants around the deck. The stand-alone planter pictured here would be perfect for a balcony herb garden for a pop of charm in your outdoor space.

Rectangular Planter With Stand, Indigo, $66.

Don't have the floor space for a planter, but want to keep your balcony entertaining space looking and feeling fresh? Customize your square footage by thinking outside the box. Create a vertical garden by stacking planters or hanging them from the wall or ceiling.

Umbra Triflora Hanging Planter, Amazon, $

Need a place to rest your drink, or work outside or enjoy a meal al fresco — but don't have a lot space on your balcony? Skip the patio table for a balcony bar like these space-saving foldable balcony bars from Views, which are uniquely designed to maximize space without sacrificing function. Opt for sleek bar stools that can be tucked underneath. 

Acacia Balcony Bar, Views, $296.

Does your outdoor or patio space feel too open? Or are mosquitoes a constant distraction from your outdoor relaxation time? Create a whimsical vibe and added privacy with a canopy (just make sure it's designed to be used outdoors). A breezy canopy also keeps the bugs out — a win-win!

Canopy Netting Mesh for Indoor/Outdoors, Amazon, $19.

Mix and match your seating using versatile lounge pillows and ottomans. A jute ottoman like the one pictured here is great for additional seating or as a stacked to create a chic side table — the versatile piece can be used outdoors in covered areas, making it ideal for balcony bar and entertaining areas.

Square Pouf Ottoman, Jute, Indigo, $83.

For outdoor-ready entertaining, reach for colourful dinnerware to brighten the table. Retro-inspired plates like the dinner plate pictured here are perfect for celebrating your daily aperitivo with friends. 

OUI Bamboo Dinner Plate, Indigo, $6.

It’s amazing what an outdoor rug can do to revamp a space and make it that much comfier. When we're entertaining, our balconies become an extension of our living space, and adding a fun rug to a hard floor instantly creates a stylish base. Try a bold design to create a focal point to your balcony or opt for something more neutral — just be sure the rug is made for the outdoors. 

nuLOOM Braided Lefebvre Indoor/Outdoor Accent Rug, 2' x 3', Charcoal, Amazon, $50.