Balconies and decks, no matter how small they are, can be turned into a cozy hideaway with just minimal redecoration and a lot of imagination.

Get rid of the junk. If at up to this point, your balcony has acted as extra storage space, then do it (and yourself) a favor by clearing up the space. Most of the things there could actually be thrown away anyway, or you may want to sell any “useful” item for some extra cash.

Plan. If you have a large balcony, you may want to divide it into smaller areas – one where you can put a hammock, one where you can place a tiny garden dinette, etc. Create a theme if you wish. This will help you decide what plants or furnishing you may want to decorate your balcony with.

For example, for a little Zen-inspired retreat, make use of bonsai plants in cute little round pots. You can make a small sandbox where you can put a few rocks and stones plus a cute little bamboo fountain for a very zen look. You can install bamboo screens as area dividers and buy or make Japanese lanterns to light in the evenings.

Flowering creepy crawlies in time will make your balcony lovely and romantic. Place an ornate steel garden table set, a comfortable soft chaise and you’ll soon have Romeo climbing up in no time.

Tall plants can act as a screen for your Jacuzzi, if you have the inclination and the resources to have it installed outside. Light scented candles and play soft, relaxing music for a relaxing spa evening after a long and exhausting workday.