My balcony is tiny.  I mean, it’s miniscule.  If I were to lie down, I’m pretty sure I would fit perfectly within it.  Needless to say, I’m not throwing any day jams out there but I still wanted to have a space that was decent enough to hang out on, have my morning coffee, read a book etc.  After years of focusing on other priorities in my condo (and life), I finally decided to get my act together and create a functional and pretty outdoor space to enjoy one of the busiest intersections in the city.

I wanted to include greenery and plants that I could attempt to grow myself.  I’m a self proclaimed plant murder and I’d really like to try and reverse that reputation.  Since I’ve been cooking more, I decided that growing some herbs would be a good way to start my gardening career while also having something useful at my finger tips.

I picked up these adorable planters that hook right on to my balcony and terracotta pots from IKEA.  They have many varieties and colors that can work with your decor but since my square footage was already so limited,  I wanted something that I could hang and keep off the floor.

I decided to plant some mint, basil, parsley and spinach.  This will be the first time that I’ll be growing herbs so I’ll keep you guys posted about my progress and whether or not reputation remains intact.

Next order of business was to cover up the AWFUL unfinished concrete floor.  My balcony size is awkward,  5.25″ by 3.41″ to be exact, so with a space that size, finding a mat was interesting.  Everything I found was either 5×7 or 6×9 but I finally stumbled upon one that was 6×4.  Length wise it worked perfectly because it could easily roll up where it was too big.  Width wise, its not ideal but I’m making it work.  It’s rolling up slightly against the back wall but it doesn’t look that bad.  I got this mat from Homesense and they currently have some really cute prints and a variety of sizes.  Hello pineapples!

Finally, a comfy chair and some decorative pieces to complete the look.  I found the perfect chair while I was shopping for the mat so I had to pick it up.  I bought a few citronella candles from the dollar store and moved my lantern that I originally had inside to my new adorable space.

And just like that my little balcony oasis is complete.  I’m really excited have a little space of my own outside to get some fresh air and people watch.   If you guys have any gardening tips or tricks on how to grow herbs and make them last I’d love to hear them!

Thanks for reading!