Balcony Bliss & Spring Awakening: Maximising Small Outdoor Spaces
As winter loosens its grip and the days stretch a little longer, something stirs in the air. The scent of jasmine creeps through open windows, magpies sing their morning songs, and the sun begins to cast golden light across forgotten corners of our homes. It’s the season of renewal, and your balcony is calling.
Often overlooked or underused, balconies and petite patios hold the promise of transformation. With just a few thoughtful touches, these modest spaces can become lush retreats, alfresco dining nooks, or quiet sanctuaries for morning rituals and twilight musings. Whether you're nestled in a city apartment or perched above a coastal street, your outdoor space, no matter how small, deserves to be celebrated.
This spring, we invite you to rediscover the joy of outdoor living with Balcony Bliss, a curated guide to maximising small outdoor spaces using timeless pieces from our favourite brands. From sculptural chairs and compact tables to mood-setting lighting and greenery that breathes life, we’ll show you how to turn your balcony into a space that feels expansive, intentional, and uniquely yours.
Because when the season shifts, so should your surroundings. And sometimes, the smallest spaces hold the biggest potential for joy.
Small Outdoor Tables: Where Big Moments Begin
There’s something beautifully intimate about a small outdoor table. It doesn’t demand attention, it invites it. It’s where the day begins with a quiet coffee, where ideas are scribbled into notebooks, and where conversations stretch long into the evening, accompanied by candlelight and the scent of spring blooms.
On a compact balcony, every centimetre counts. But that doesn’t mean compromising on style or substance. The right table can anchor your outdoor space, offering both function and flair. It becomes the centrepiece of your morning rituals, your weekend brunches, your spontaneous wine-and-cheese nights. It’s not just a surface, it’s a stage for life’s little luxuries.
This season, we’ve curated a selection of small outdoor tables that prove great design thrives in modest proportions. From sculptural silhouettes to timeless craftsmanship, these pieces are made to elevate small spaces and enrich everyday moments. Whether your balcony overlooks a bustling street or a quiet garden, these tables are ready to transform it into your favourite room with a view.
Carmel Bistro Table | Gubi
Palissade Cone Table | HAY
Thorvald Table | &Tradition
Carmel Bistro Table by Gubi
A bold blend of Californian cool and European café culture, the Carmel Bistro Table is crafted from glazed Italian stoneware with a high-shine finish and supported by semi-matt black stainless steel legs. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, it brings sculptural charm and resilience to balconies of all sizes.
Palissade Cone Table by HAY
Designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the Palissade Cone Table is a masterclass in minimalism. Its ultra-thin steel top and solid base are powder-coated for outdoor durability, making it ideal for balconies, terraces, and urban courtyards. Available in a range of colours and sizes, it’s a versatile piece with graphic elegance.
Thorvald Table SC96 by &Tradition
Part of a collection inspired by neoclassical sculpture, the Thorvald SC96 is a round café table made from powder-coated steel, designed specifically for outdoor use. Its sculpted silhouette and interplay of light and shadow make it a poetic addition to any small outdoor setting.
Sequence Outdoor Table | Coco Flip
Pelagus Table | Fritz Hansen
Strand Outdoor Table | NAU
Sequence Round Dining Table by Coco Flip
Proudly made in Melbourne, the Sequence Table features a slender, powder-coated steel top and spun cylindrical legs. While it can be customised for outdoor use, it’s best suited to sheltered balconies or covered patios, as it’s not recommended for highly corrosive environments.
Pelagus Square Table by Fritz Hansen
Crafted from teak and powder-coated aluminium, the Pelagus Square Table is built for the outdoors. Its compact square shape fits snugly into corners, while its slatted teak top allows for efficient drainage, perfect for balconies that see a mix of sun and showers.
Strand Outdoor Table by NAU
Designed by Adam Cornish, the Strand Outdoor Table draws inspiration from vintage steel furniture and braided cables. Its tactile materials and lightweight form make it ideal for balconies and patios. With a humble yet refined presence, it’s a celebration of honest design and Australian craftsmanship.
Outdoor Dining Chairs: Where Comfort Meets Craft
There’s something deeply satisfying about dining outdoors: the clink of cutlery softened by birdsong, the scent of fresh herbs drifting from nearby pots, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders as you share a meal with someone you love. On a small balcony, every detail matters. And the right chair can elevate the experience from functional to unforgettable.
Outdoor dining chairs are more than just seating, they’re an invitation to pause, to gather, to savour. They need to be comfortable enough for long lunches, resilient enough to weather the seasons, and beautiful enough to complement your personal style. Whether your balcony is a leafy retreat or a sleek urban perch, the perfect chair sets the tone.
This season, we’ve selected six standout designs that bring together craftsmanship, durability, and design integrity. From sculptural silhouettes to understated classics, these chairs are made to thrive in small outdoor spaces and to make every moment spent in them feel just a little more special.
X-Line Outdoor | HAY
RFH Terrace Chair | &Tradition
Vipp711 Open-Air Chair | Vipp
X-Line Chair by HAY
Originally designed in the late ’70s by Niels Jørgen Haugesen, the X-Line Chair is a celebration of minimalism and high-tech design. Crafted from powder-coated steel wire, it’s stackable, lightweight, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its distinctive X-shaped frame adds visual interest while remaining unobtrusive, perfect for balconies that need to do more with less.
RFH Terrace Chair RD4 by &Tradition
Designed by Robin Day for the Royal Festival Hall in London, the RFH Terrace Chair RD4 is a timeless piece made from teak slats and a solid steel frame. Its compact proportions and organic aesthetic make it ideal for balconies with a natural, understated vibe. Optional weather-resistant cushions add comfort without compromising the chair’s clean lines.
Vipp711 Open-Air Chair by Vipp
Modelled after Vipp’s original indoor chair, the Vipp711 Open-Air Chair features a powder-coated aluminium frame, rattan-covered armrests, and a padded backrest. The cushions are upholstered in waterproof and UV-resistant textiles, making it a luxurious yet practical choice for outdoor dining. Its airy silhouette adds elegance to even the smallest outdoor setting.
Lilium | Fritz Hansen
Tropique | Gubi
BM4570 | Carl Hansen & Søn
Lilium Chair by Fritz Hansen
Designed by BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group, the Lilium Chair is a contemporary outdoor dining chair crafted from teak and stainless steel. Slightly wider than a traditional dining chair, it offers extra comfort and resilience in changing weather conditions. Its X-shaped frame and open slats allow for airflow and drainage, making it a smart and stylish choice for balconies that blend elegance with practicality.
Tropique Dining Chair by Gubi
Created by Mathieu Matégot in the 1950s, the Tropique Chair captures the glamour of mid-century outdoor living. Its stainless steel frame features signature curved feet and is upholstered in outdoor-ready fabric, with optional fringes for a bohemian touch. Ideal for balconies that channel Riviera charm or playful sophistication.
BM4570 Dining Chair by Carl Hansen & Søn
Designed by Børge Mogensen in the late 1960s, the BM4570 Dining Chair is a foldable teak classic made for flexible outdoor living. Its slatted seat and backrest follow the body’s natural contours, while its compact, stackable design makes it ideal for balconies where space is at a premium. Pair it with the BM5868 Side Table for a cohesive, timeless look.
Skip the Dining, Embrace the Chill: Lounge in Style
Not every balcony is made for meals and not every moment calls for a table. Sometimes, the greatest luxury is doing absolutely nothing. A good book, a soft breeze, the scent of jasmine in the air. These are the moments when your outdoor space becomes a sanctuary, and your seating becomes a statement.
As spring unfolds, balconies become places of pause. They’re where we stretch out in the sun, sip something cold, and let the day slow down. And while dining sets serve a purpose, lounge chairs offer something deeper: comfort, calm, and a sense of retreat. They invite you to unwind, to breathe, to simply be.
This section is for the dreamers, the loungers, the sun-chasers. Whether you're curling up with a coffee or stretching out for an afternoon nap, these lounge chairs and chaises are designed to bring comfort, character, and calm to even the smallest outdoor spaces. From sculptural icons to foldable classics, each piece is crafted to elevate your balcony into a haven of relaxation.
Pacha Outdoor | Gubi
Palissade Cord Chaise Longue | HAY
Pelagus Lounge | Fritz Hansen
Pacha Outdoor Lounge Chair by Gubi
Originally designed by Pierre Paulin in 1975, the Pacha Chair redefined low-level living and now it’s ready for the outdoors. With its curvaceous silhouette and indulgent comfort, the outdoor version features a water-resistant, breathable membrane and weatherproof upholstery. It’s a sculptural cloud of relaxation, perfect for balconies that crave softness and style.
Palissade Cord Chaise Longue by HAY
A fresh take on HAY’s iconic Palissade collection, the Cord Chaise Longue combines powder-coated steel with handwoven recycled polyester cord. The result is a reclining seat that’s both graphic and gentle, ideal for sun-drenched balconies or leafy terraces. Available in a range of earthy tones, it’s a piece that blends seamlessly into natural and urban settings.
Pelagus Lounge Chair by Fritz Hansen
Designed in collaboration with Note Design Studio, the Pelagus Lounge Chair is built for laidback days of sun and sociability. Its teak frame evokes classic Scandinavian design, while the weatherproof Sling fabric seat adds a modern, airy touch. Reclined for comfort and finished with wide wooden armrests, perfect for resting a drink or a book, it’s a natural fit for balconies that embrace both style and serenity.
Riviera Lounge | Fritz Hansen
Copacabana | Gubi
Panton One Lounge | Montana
Riviera Lounge by Fritz Hansen
A masterclass in versatility, the Riviera Lounge transforms from chair to table, sofa to sunbed. Made from teak with stainless steel fittings, it’s designed to adapt to your needs and your space. Perfect for balconies that shift from solo retreat to social hub with ease.
Copacabana Lounge Chair by Gubi
With its continuous tubular frame and perforated metal backrest, the Copacabana Chair is a playful nod to 1950s design. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use depending on upholstery, it brings bohemian charm and sculptural elegance to any alfresco setting.
Panton One Lounge Chair by Montana
Originally designed by Verner Panton in 1955, the Panton One Lounge Chair is handwoven with polyurethane cord on a stainless steel frame, making it perfectly suited for outdoor use. Its airy construction and vibrant colour options bring a playful, modern touch to balconies that embrace bold design.
Vipp713 Open-Air Lounge | Vipp
MG501 Cuba Outdoor Chair | Carl Hansen & Søn
Grace Outdoor | Gubi
Vipp713 Open-Air Lounge Chair by Vipp
Modelled after Vipp’s indoor lounge chair, the Open-Air 713 features a powder-coated aluminium frame, rounded teak armrests, and removable, washable cushions. Designed for durability and comfort, it’s a refined choice for balconies that balance industrial edge with organic warmth.
Cuba Chair by Carl Hansen & Søn
Designed by Morten Gøttler in 1997, the MG501 Cuba Chair is a refined take on contemporary living. Its folding frame embodies a seamless balance of form and function, while woven cotton straps bring comfort and tactility. Paying homage to past masters who reimagined the folding chair, the Cuba Chair offers a timeless, space-saving solution with a sculptural presence.
Grace Outdoor Lounge Chair by Gubi
Inspired by a 1936 sketch by Tove Kindt-Larsen, the Grace Chair is a rattan classic reimagined in synthetic materials for outdoor living. Powder-coated aluminium and polyethylene fibres create a lightweight, durable frame, while the deep seat cushion offers indulgent comfort. Available in black, white, and mushroom grey, it’s a poetic addition to any balcony.
Cohesive Brand Pairings: Curated Looks for Effortless Style
Designing a small outdoor space is like composing a melody: each piece must harmonise with the next. When furniture is thoughtfully paired, it creates a sense of cohesion that makes even the tiniest balcony feel intentional and inviting. Whether you lean minimalist or bohemian, coastal or urban, these brand-specific pairings offer ready-made inspiration for creating a space that feels complete.
Here are six curated combinations that bring together form, function, and brand identity, so you can style your balcony with confidence and ease.
Thorvald Collection | &Tradition
Ocean Outdoor Collection | Mater
Thorvald Table & Chairs by &Tradition
Inspired by the lyrical lines of Danish neoclassicism, the Thorvald Collection by Space Copenhagen is a sculptural celebration of outdoor living. Powder-coated steel tables and grid-seated chairs play with light and shadow, creating a poetic atmosphere perfect for urban balconies or garden terraces.
Ocean Collection by Mater
A sustainable standout, the Ocean Collection reimagines 1950s Danish design using recycled ocean plastic and e-waste. With slatted seats and metal frames, these chairs and tables are lightweight, stackable, and ideal for eco-conscious styling. Available in black, sand, green, and burnt red, they bring colour and conscience to your outdoor space.
Pelagus Collection | Fritz Hansen
Balcony Collection | HAY
Pelagus Table & Chairs by Fritz Hansen
Designed in collaboration with Note Design Studio, the Pelagus dining set features a solid teak table paired with matching chairs that combine teak and powder-coated aluminium. With clean lines and a relaxed Scandinavian aesthetic, this pairing is ideal for balconies that embrace natural materials and timeless design.
Balcony Table & Chairs by HAY
Designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the Balcony Collection features square forms softened by rounded edges and perforated patterns. Made from durable powder-coated steel, these pieces enhance airflow and drainage while adding graphic charm. Available in a range of colours, they’re perfect for playful, modern outdoor styling.
RFH Terrace Collection | &Tradition
AH501 Chair & AH902 Table | Carl Hansen & Søn
RFH Terrace Table & Chairs by &Tradition
Originally designed by Robin Day for the Royal Festival Hall in London, the RFH Terrace Collection is a reissue of mid-century outdoor elegance. Crafted from teak and powder-coated steel, the table and chairs offer a compact, organic aesthetic ideal for small balconies. Custom cushions in recycled textiles add comfort and charm.
AH501 Chair & AH902 Table by Carl Hansen & Søn
Designed by Alfred Homann in 2022, the AH Outdoor Series is a study in simplicity and soft geometry. Crafted from untreated teak, the AH501 Chair and AH902 Table offer clean lines and stackable convenience. Add weather-resistant cushions for a tailored, tactile finish.
Portable Lighting: Glow On the Go
As the sun dips below the horizon and the air cools with the scent of spring, lighting becomes the soul of your outdoor space. On a small balcony, where every object must earn its place, portable lamps offer the perfect blend of function and atmosphere. They’re not just practical, they’re poetic. They cast a glow that softens the edges of the day, turning your balcony into a sanctuary of calm.
Whether you’re hosting friends, reading under the stars, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these portable lights are designed to move with you, indoors and out. From sculptural icons to sustainable innovations, here are eight standout designs that bring warmth, character, and flexibility to your alfresco evenings.
Terra | Mater
Obello | Gubi
Mousqueton | HAY
Terra Portable Lamp by Mater
Crafted from Matek™, a sustainable material made from coffee shell waste and recycled e-waste, the Terra Lamp is a tactile, minimalist piece with a conical silhouette. Designed by OEO Studio, it offers three-step dimming and up to 10 hours of battery life. Ideal for balconies that blend design with environmental consciousness.
Obello Lamp by Gubi
A space-age icon reimagined for today, the Obello Lamp by Bill Curry features a frosted, mouth-blown glass shade and integrated dimmable LED. With up to 40 hours of light on a single charge and an IP44 rating, it’s as functional as it is whimsical; ideal for balconies that double as conversation starters.
Mousqueton Portable by HAY
Named after the French word for carabiner, Mousqueton is a rugged yet refined lamp designed by Inga Sempé. With a built-in hook for hanging and a weatherproof body, it’s perfect for balconies that embrace spontaneity and adventure.
Pao | HAY
Multi-Lite | Gubi
Lucca | &Tradition
Pao Portable by HAY
A collaboration with Japanese designer Naoto Fukasawa, the Pao Lamp is inspired by the soft glow of Mongolian tents. Its smooth polycarbonate shell conceals a warm LED light, offering a gentle, diffused glow that’s perfect for creating a serene outdoor atmosphere.
Multi-Lite Portable by Gubi
Louis Weisdorf’s iconic Multi-Lite gets a portable upgrade with a USB-rechargeable base, three-step dimmer, and adjustable shades. Its sculptural form and high-gloss finish make it a striking addition to balconies that lean bold and expressive.
Lucca SC51 by &Tradition
Inspired by the golden glow of the Tuscan city of Lucca, this elegant lamp by Space Copenhagen offers up to 12 hours of warm light. Its satinised opal glass shade and powder-coated metal base make it a refined companion for both indoor and outdoor use.
Accessories & Decor: The Finishing Touches
A balcony isn’t just a place, it’s a mood. And while furniture sets the foundation, it’s the accessories that bring soul to the space. A flickering lantern, a soft cushion, a sculptural pot: these are the details that transform a functional corner into a personal retreat.
In small outdoor spaces, every object matters. The right accessories add texture, warmth, and personality, helping your balcony reflect the way you live, relax, and entertain. Whether you're styling for solitude or socialising, these pieces are designed to elevate your outdoor experience with beauty and intention.
Shade Outdoor Pouf | nanimarquina
Collect Hurricane Lantern | &Tradition
Barriere Pillow | Fritz Hansen
Shade Outdoor Pouf by nanimarquina
Designed by Begüm Cana Özgür, the Shade Outdoor Pouf is crafted from recycled PET fibre and made to complement the Shade rug collection. Lightweight and easy to move, it adds volume, colour, and comfort to any outdoor setting. Available in a range of tonal gradients, it’s perfect for layering texture and creating relaxed seating zones.
Collect Hurricane Lantern by &Tradition
Described by Space Copenhagen as “framing the poetic nature of candlelight,” the Collect Hurricane SC83 features rounded glass and a powder-coated steel base. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, it casts a soft flicker that adds warmth and depth, ideal for twilight dinners or quiet evenings under the stars.
Barriere Pillow by Fritz Hansen
Made for all-weather comfort, the Barriere Pillow is crafted from resilient, weatherproof materials that maintain shape and softness over time. Available in a variety of colours and patterns, it’s a simple way to add personality and plushness to your outdoor seating.
Banskia | NAU
Edge Pot | Fritz Hansen
Silhouette | nanimarquina
Banksia by NAU
More than a lamp, Banksia is a sculptural oil lantern inspired by the Australian native flower. Designed by Zachary Hanna, it features a spun aluminium frame and glass diffuser that casts a soft, flickering glow. Add citronella oil for a natural insect repellent, perfect for springtime entertaining.
Edge Pot by Fritz Hansen
Hand-thrown in Portugal using local clay, the Edge Pot is inspired by ancient Greek amphorae and traditional pottery techniques. While primarily designed for indoor use, its sculptural form and earthy finish make it a beautiful addition to covered balconies or sheltered outdoor corners.
Silhouette Outdoor Rug by nanimarquina
Designed by Jaime Hayon, the Silhouette Rug brings art to the outdoors with its whimsical linework and embroidered characters. Hand-woven from 100% recycled PET, it’s durable, weather-resistant, and full of personality; perfect for grounding your balcony in colour and creativity.
Conclusion: Your Balcony, Reimagined
As spring unfurls its petals and the days grow longer, your balcony becomes more than just an outdoor space: it becomes a canvas for living. Whether you're dining under the stars, lounging in the afternoon sun, or simply enjoying the quiet hum of the season, thoughtful design can turn even the smallest space into something extraordinary.
From sculptural tables and ergonomic chairs to portable lighting and poetic accessories, every piece you choose adds a layer of comfort, character, and possibility. This is your invitation to slow down, to reconnect with nature, and to rediscover the joy of outdoor living, right outside your door.
Ready to transform your balcony into a springtime sanctuary? Explore our full outdoor collection online or visit your nearest Cult showroom to experience the magic in person.
