Florida Man called. He said you need to be spending more time doing unusual stuff on your balcony. But unusual doesn’t have to be weird! In our case, it just means building the ultimate chill zone. Follow our guide to making your balcony the ideal spot to spend the dog days of summer.

Begin From the Ground Up

Your ultimate outdoor hangout spot needs the right foundation. Add a few throw rugs to keep your feet cool and add a splash of color.

Lighten the Mood

Your awesome outdoor experience requires the right kind of lighting. Florida Man would say just burn some old books, but we strongly advise you don’t. Instead, invest in some attractive solar LED lantern string lights, like these from The Gardeners Shop. That way, you don’t have to worry about reaching an outlet to plug in.

Add a Touch of Mystique

Hanging out outside doesn’t have to mean being on display to everyone in your community. Shield your balcony exploits by adding a layer of privacy. Options included attaching some old burlap to your balcony, a faux trellis and hedge like this one from Home Depot, or placing a line of potted plants – real or fake – up against the railing.

Keep It Cool

Your ultimate balcony hangout won’t be too fun if you’re directly in the sun. Enter the half patio umbrella, such as this one on Amazon. It’s literally half an umbrella, making it ideal for smaller spaces.

Take a Seat

Last but not least, you need a comfortable place to sit down! Wood always makes a classy statement and is known to pass the test of time. We like this minimalist set from AllModern featuring two chairs with weather resistant cushions and a small table to set your beverage on.

For more tips and tricks for winning at life, check out the Olympus Harbour Island blog.