Initially, when apartment buildings were designed, little space was allocated for balconies. But over time, the understanding came that this is not only a place where you can store unnecessary things and hang wet clothes to dry. This is a place where you can relax physically and mentally, breathe air and enjoy the silence.
The balcony is a full-fledged room that requires appropriate decoration - and a sofa on the balcony plays a very important role.
In modern buildings, loggias are made into a separate place, standing on a par with the rooms of the apartment. Therefore, the approach to decoration and design should be based on the plans for this place. One of the most popular solutions is to install a sofa on the balcony.
If we are talking about a small room in which you need to save space, then the best option is built-in structures, and this also applies to sofas.
Criteria for choosing a sofa for a balcony or loggia
When it is finally determined that a resting place will be created, it is necessary to choose the right sofa. To do this, you need to evaluate the following factors:
- Capacity parameters. It is worth considering that the furniture should not occupy the entire area;
Built-in sofas are minimalist and can fit into any interior.
- The functionality of the selected furniture, the presence of drawers for storing things or the ability to move apart and form another bed;
Furniture for a balcony or loggia should be compact, and folding sofas or beds are ideal.
- Sheathing material. If the loggia is used not only for relaxation, then it is worth choosing a more durable and less easily soiled material;
They save space as much as possible, as they are installed in a special niche and allow you to use all the free space.
- Color. Must correspond to the selected design design.
You will not have any difficulties transporting the finished product to the balcony - you can simply assemble it there.
Photo gallery of beds
You can find a suitable model to make a sun lounger on the balcony with your own hands or purchase ready-made furniture in a store by studying the photo gallery of sun loungers. It is easy to find on the Internet or in the catalog in the sales department. Couches, folding beds, chaise lounges, sofas and armchairs of various configurations are presented in a colorful design. If someone’s balcony interior is not yet decorated with such an item, after viewing it, an irresistible desire appears to correct this mistake.
Sofa with storage box
The most popular option. When there is an opportunity to store things, a place to relax acquires household functionality.
The boxes are:
- retractable;
They are also multifunctional - they can be used to store things, as they have built-in drawers.
- internal.
"Box". This is a sofa with plenty of free space inside. It is hidden under the seat and, due to the opening mechanism, it really looks like a chest.
For drawers, it is necessary to provide space, while with internal ones it is more compact. Simply lift the seat up to access storage space. A sofa for a balcony with a storage box is suitable for economical people who wisely use all the possibilities of the apartment’s space.
Sometimes there are several niches separated by a thin partition. This option is convenient if you are going to store linen, any rags, or clothes on the balcony.
Practical materials
When choosing a sofa for the balcony, great attention should be paid to its upholstery. Its service life will depend on the quality of the material used. Therefore, the fabric must be durable, not afraid of frequent loads and mechanical stress, and be easy to care for. There are three types of materials that combine beautiful appearance with practicality. These include:
- Chenille.
- Natural and artificial leather.
- Flock.
A fabric that looks like velvet, with the addition of tapestry, jacquard or satin threads, which gives it additional strength, is called chenille. It is used not only for upholstering sofas, it is also used to make decorative pillows. Furniture upholstered with this fabric looks expensive. The advantages of chenille include:
- The fabric does not stretch.
- Does not shrink when washed.
- Draps beautifully into folds.
- It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
- Does not fade when exposed to direct sunlight.
What kind of sofa furniture is this, how to choose it correctly - useful tips
The next popular fabric is natural or artificial leather. The material has high wear resistance, is not afraid of mechanical damage, as well as high humidity. Suitable for almost all interior styles. Easy to clean, just wipe it with a damp cloth occasionally. But this fabric has a significant drawback: under the influence of high temperatures it can become deformed. Although if you provide it with proper care, the furniture will last for many years and will become a stylish decoration for the balcony.
Families with small children should pay attention to flock upholstery. Main advantages of the material:
- Easy to care for.
- Eco-friendly and hypoallergenic.
- Does not stretch or deform.
- Not afraid of moisture.
All sofas on the balcony must have frames made of materials with high moisture resistance. This is due to the high humidity of the place in which they will be located. Therefore, when choosing, you should avoid products made from chipboard and MDF, and give preference to a frame made of solid natural wood. This design will cost more, but will last for many years. Especially if it is additionally coated with varnish or any other water-repellent agent.
Sofas with sleeper
This option is suitable for large balconies. It makes it possible to get complete rest, unlike sliding sofas, since it provides a comfortable sleeping place with a solid mattress. Most often, installation is carried out on glazed balconies - loggias.
A loggia sofa can be an excellent solution for expanding your apartment space.
General tips and tricks for making a sofa with your own hands
If you're new to carpentry, the following tips and tricks will help you avoid many common carpentry mistakes:
- To more accurately determine the dimensions, measure the balcony several times. Better yet, do this with an assistant, and then compare the results. As a rule, this helps to find shortcomings in calculations and avoid a situation in which the finished product does not fit into the available space, or unsightly gaps form along the edges of it;
- When choosing a product size, consider your definition of comfort. If the seat is too narrow or the back is too low, it will simply be uncomfortable for you to relax on such a sofa;
- Don't try to make the sofa too bulky and overcrowded with details. You should choose styles that are close to minimalism. Several armrests, a voluminous backrest, a lot of pillows - all this looks great on large soft sofas, but the simplest options are suitable for a balcony;
- Buy materials with a reserve, in case something goes wrong during work and several bars are cut to the wrong size or the fabric is stitched in the wrong place. In addition, from leftover materials you can make additional details for your sofa, which will give it a special twist. For example, the fabric can be used to make small pillows or appliqués on the back;
- If during the process of making a sofa something doesn’t work out for you or you have additional questions, do not be afraid to turn to the Internet for help. There are many highly specialized forums where they will once again tell you the correct algorithm of actions.
To create a cozy and comfortable relaxation area on the balcony you don’t need much. The main thing is to have patience and imagination, then the repairs made on the balcony will delight you and your guests for a long time. In addition, hand-made furniture will be a real source of pride for the owner!
The easiest way to make a sofa:
Choosing a sofa size
An important rule when purchasing is to remember that the volumetric dimensions of the store visually reduce the furniture. Therefore, it is always necessary to look at the technical dimensions of the selected item.
If you have a recess or indentation from the wall on your balcony, you can install the sofa there.
Before purchasing, clearly measure all the parameters of the loggia and do not forget about the parameters of the front door, so that you can then bring and install the purchase where you planned.
Due to its design, this furniture can take up very little space.
Examples of mini sofas
A sofa for a balcony is an excellent solution not only for small balconies and loggias. By installing miniature furniture, there is room for additional placement, for example, a small armchair or coffee table. This will make it possible to create a relaxation area where you can spend time not only alone, but also with friends.
They are just right for get-togethers. Another table nearby, an armchair - and everything will look very nice.
Narrow sofas
This format is suitable for installation in a corner. When decorated, it is embedded between the inner and outer walls. Visually blends with the interior. They can be either sliding or with drawers for storing things.
This is an ideal option if you want to not only create a cozy place, but also use the space to its maximum advantage.
Design and colors
Furniture made from unusual materials will help diversify the interior of the balcony. For example, an elegant mini-sofa will be made from rattan. This product looks light and will perfectly complement the kitchen design. If you add to it a table woven from the same material, you will get an elegant set.
An original solution would be a sofa made by hand from ready-made pallets or lining. To do this, you need to pre-treat the material with special antifungal and moisture-protective agents, then paint and varnish. Next, you can assemble the structure; it will serve as a sofa frame. After this, all that remains is to cover the product with foam rubber and cover it with fabric.
The advantage of sofas made from pallets is their mobility. The design can always be changed, new elements added, increased or decreased in size.
A balcony in the kitchen or any other room with a sofa decorated with decorative soft pillows, complemented by fresh flowers in pots, will always look cozy and unusual.
Options for placing a sofa on the balcony
Here again it all depends on the desire of the owner, design and size. It would be best to place it in a corner. This way it will be more compactly located and will leave some free space.
This option is suitable for those who like to sleep in the fresh air, and a nightstand can easily fit next to it.
Designer design allows you to successfully fit into the style, making it invisible and at the same time an excellent addition to give comfort. For example, by installing a sofa on a loggia with a sleeping place, placing a small chest of drawers and hanging shelves or a small TV, you can create an additional room that will accommodate guests or an adult child.
On a small balcony, it is advisable to install compact mini-sofas, folding or folding upholstered furniture, placing it in a corner or against the side walls.
Types of sofas for balcony space
There are many types of sofas suitable for installation on a loggia or balcony. All you have to do is choose which one is closer to you.
Built-in and freestanding
A built-in sofa on the balcony is a good option that allows you to make the most of your free space. It saves useful space, but on a loggia that is too small it can look cumbersome. Typically consists of a floor-to-ceiling module with cabinets, shelves and seating. Sometimes equipped with a folding mechanism.
A built-in sofa bedside table will help you rationally use the free space on the balcony
A freestanding sofa for a balcony - there are all kinds of sofa models that are easy to move from place to place. These can be mini-sofas for 1-2 seats, models without armrests and backrests, large classic models, etc.
Freestanding - any sofa that can be easily moved from place to place
Frameless and rigid base
A frameless sofa for a balcony is a mobile option for brave, extraordinary individuals. You can choose a ready-made model from the store or replace it with a soft mattress on the floor in tandem with pillows on the wall. For a very narrow balcony, the best option would be a frameless chair that can be carried away if necessary.
Frameless sofas and armchairs are comfortable due to their mobility and lightness
A sofa on a rigid base is the familiar model on a frame. The frame is made of wood and metal, and the filling for the balcony sofa is chosen to be elastic and hard. Such models retain their original appearance longer, are more resistant to negative influences, and are easier to care for.
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A sofa with a rigid metal frame and solid base is a durable, practical option for a balcony
With folding mechanism
A folding sofa will be needed if you plan to make a bedroom on the balcony or just sleep here sometimes. This option is suitable for owners of long loggias when there is no need to protect every square meter. At the same time, it is convenient that most of the time it will be folded and will not interfere with movement around the balcony.
Install folding models along the wall.
A folding sofa will allow you to organize a full-fledged sleeping place on the balcony
But consider what mechanism is in place so that the unfolding process does not cause discomfort.
The table shows sofas by type depending on the folding mechanism.
| French folding bed | When folded, such models look quite compact, but when unfolded they require a lot of free space. The seat is raised and laid out like a folded mattress |
| Eurobook | The mechanism is convenient in confined spaces. The seat rolls forward and then the backrest lowers. |
| Book | A traditional mechanism when the seat is raised all the way and the backrest is laid horizontally. |
| Click-clack | Often installed on compact models. To unfold such a sofa, you need to slightly raise the seat, the back will take a horizontal position. Similar to the “book” mechanism, but here the backrest can be installed at different angles. |
| Dolphin | Durable mechanism, which is usually equipped with corner models. A platform is pulled out from under the seat and placed on the same level with it. |
| Tick tock | The “tick-tock” or “pantograph” mechanism works in two clicks - up and forward, which is why it got its name. To unfold such a model, you do not need to move it along the floor, which is convenient. The seat simply slides forward and the backrest is placed in the free space. |
| Puma | The “walking” Puma mechanism works very simply. It is enough to pull the upper seat towards you and lower it to the floor, and the lower one will take its place. |
| Sedaflex (Dionysus) | An analogue of the “French clamshell”, only more modern. The design is complemented by a slatted base and a hard mattress, but the unfolding principle is the same. |
| Accordion | Transformation without seams or loops. If you pull the seat, the entire structure moves forward, forming a berth. |
| Roll-out | The mechanism is usually found in larger models. It will be inconvenient for a small space. To unfold the sofa, you will need to pull the hinge and pull out the front part. |
Folding models are convenient when you need a sofa for the balcony with a sleeping place. Which one to choose depends on the area of the room.
Choosing a sofa for the interior style
This is also an important stage for creating an atmospheric environment. The discrepancy between the design styles of the room and the selected furniture is always striking.
Modern style
Neutral color tones and smooth shapes are suitable here. The sofa will look good. In modern style there is no place for functionality, but there should be maximum comfort:
- delicate upholstery fabric;
A stylized sofa is very suitable for a balcony.
- soft orthopedic mattress.
You can turn your balcony into a cute and cozy place to relax by using wicker and soft materials and filling the space with pillows.
Also, by installing a small sofa on the loggia, you can additionally equip a place for children to relax, which is ideal in the summer. Fresh air and natural light have a beneficial effect on a child's health.
Next to the sofa you can install a bookcase or an easel with a chair.
Classic style
A combination of beauty, comfort and functionality. In addition to convenience, the sofa should be equipped with the functions necessary for everyday life: a drawer for things and the possibility of additional space.
Corner structures can also have a roll-out or sliding mechanism, thereby providing a comfortable place to sleep.
Scandinavian style
The primacy of nature. Geometrically correct shapes, wooden legs, armrests and the plane of the sofa. Soft pillows for comfort. Executed on the verge of minimalism, it creates an atmosphere of the north. It is better to relax on it under a blanket and with a hot mug of tea.
Drawers are ideal for storing bedding, clothing or any knick-knacks.
High tech
This is the style of the future. A combination of plastic, metal and glass. Flexible shapes and sparkling colors allow you to blend seamlessly with the surroundings and become an inconspicuous addition. Here we need extraordinary solutions, made according to the latest fashion.
There is no place for functionality, the main thing is style.
Industrial style
Minimal interior finishing. Space and simplicity dominate this style. The ideal option is a couch on the balcony. It will not take up much space and will serve as a wonderful place to relax.
If you prefer a balcony as a workplace, pay attention to strict wooden designs.
Tools and materials for work
To make a chest, backs and seats you will need:
- a hand saw, a jigsaw or a circular saw - the use of a power tool is not necessary, but it significantly reduces the work time;
- drill or screwdriver with bits and drill bits;
- furniture stapler;
- assembly knife and scissors;
- tape measure, ruler, furniture corner;
- marker.
Cushion covers are sewn yourself or ordered from the nearest sewing workshop. The second option is preferable if you are not confident in your skills.
Materials you will need:
- pieces of bars with a cross section of 40x40 mm or slightly larger;
- chipboard sheets, if the frame will be finished with fabric, laminated chipboard, if the sides remain open;
- plywood 8–10 mm thick for the rising lid and structural reinforcements;
- pieces of furniture fabric, leather or eco-leather for upholstery of seats and backs;
- foam rubber or sheet polyurethane foam for filling soft elements;
- gabardine, non-woven fabric or spunbond for upholstery of hidden parts and for laying between foam rubber and pillow fabric;
- self-tapping screws;
- piano loop;
- furniture buttons and 1.5 mm cord for tightening;
- legs or supports.
To attach the backs to the wall, you may need a hammer drill and dowels with screws of the appropriate size.
Advantages and disadvantages of homemade sofas
Self-assembly is characterized by a lot of positive aspects. The development takes place on the basis of our own ideas, which allows us to create a unique, individual design, the dimensions of which will exactly match the room. At the same time, a self-made sofa has many advantages:
- The product will cost its owner much cheaper than purchased analogues, which will help save money.
- In the process of production, a person gains experience. Having learned how to do the work, he can easily repair such structures, reupholster the fabric, and assemble more complex furniture.
- At the design stage, you can determine the design of the planned product yourself and design it in full accordance with the interior style of the room.
- The work does not require special tools or special conditions. The usual means at hand will do, and assembly can be done directly in the apartment or in the courtyard of a private house.
- Independent control of product quality will allow you to create a high-quality product.
- A handmade sofa will become a source of pride for its owner, which will amaze guests.
One of the disadvantages of such products is that without sufficient experience it is impossible to manufacture complex structures. The process is also labor-intensive and time-consuming. If the technology is not followed, the structure may fail prematurely.
Choosing upholstery for a sofa
A sofa for a loggia must have suitable upholstery that is durable, wear-resistant, and stain-resistant. But the most important thing is that balcony furniture should not fade in the sun or be afraid of high or low temperatures. The following materials have these properties:
| Faux leather and suede. | The materials are easy to care for, waterproof, and do not absorb odors or dirt. Disadvantages include poor resistance to mechanical damage and sensitivity to high temperatures. Furniture covered with leatherette should not be placed on a balcony whose windows face south. |
| Arpatek. | The material consists of 25% cotton, 33% polyurethane, 42% viscose. Retains the warmth of the human body, does not stick to the skin, does not become rough in the cold, hypoallergenic, moisture resistant. |
| Flock. | Soft, fleecy fabric. Animal hair does not collect on the upholstery, it is resistant to mechanical damage and dirt, and is easy to care for. There is a wide range of colors and patterns. During use, the pile accumulates odors and is wiped off over time. |
| Jacquard. | Upholstery made from this material is suitable for any interior of a loggia or balcony, thanks to the large selection of patterns and ornaments. The material is strong, dense, does not fade, is easy to care for, durable, and is not afraid of cold or heat. Jacquard is not suitable for families with animals, because scratches cause puffs to appear on it. |
| Scotchard. | This is natural furniture cotton, dense and durable. It is easy to clean, does not fade, and is not afraid of moisture, high or low temperatures. |
| Microfiber. | Modern synthetic fabric that allows air to pass through, is resistant to mechanical and chemical stress, does not wear out, and does not fade. |
Decorating a bench-box for a balcony
Since the main task of such a bench is to bring coziness and comfort to the balcony interior, its seat must be made soft. This can be done in several ways:
- place a couple of comfortable pillows on the lid of the bench-box;
- sew an oblong dense pillow with elastic bands at the corners, which will easily attach it to the lid and remove it if necessary;
- cover the upper part of the bench with a pleasant-to-touch fabric or other material, use foam rubber as a soft filler.
It is also important to have a comfortable backrest. It can be either hard or soft
If you don’t want to upholster the elements of the drawer, you can also use ordinary pillows in this case - hang them on the wall instead of the back of the bench.
The most original looking seats and backrests are made from “fluffy” and soft materials – faux fur, velor, velsoft. They will add comfort and brightness to any interior.
To make the base of the bench look aesthetically pleasing, the wooden parts can be painted in any color that matches the interior of the balcony. In addition, an excellent solution would be to use stencils of a certain theme (plants, flowers, fish, etc.).
The process of making a soft seat:
How to choose furniture, taking into account the specifics of the space
There are different types of balconies: open, cold closed, as well as glazed and insulated, and even heated, and accordingly the furniture should be chosen, taking into account all the specifics of the premises.
Furniture should be made from materials that are not afraid of difficult operating conditions
Furnishings for open balconies
Choosing furniture for an open-type balcony is, perhaps, a task that is both difficult and at the same time creative.
Here it is necessary to take into account difficult operating conditions: precipitation, dust, wind, taking into account such specifics, furniture should be made of moisture-resistant materials that are not afraid of aggressive environments
Wicker furniture, although practical, takes up a lot of space; it is better to buy a folding table
Interior items made of metal, coated with durable powder paints that protect against corrosion, or forged products, for example, metal shelving, preferably with doors, and whatnots and cabinets are best suited.
Forged furniture on the balcony is always practical, stylish and original
Plastic, wicker garden furniture or folding furniture on a metal frame with wooden trim, a mesh or straw hammock for relaxing feels good on open balconies. Larger areas can accommodate comfortable sun loungers.
Folding furniture is very convenient for open balconies; in winter it is better to store it at home in a closet
For creative and thrifty people, in the photo we offer an interesting idea on how to make a sofa out of wood with your own hands. In the same way, you can make a bench, cabinet or table from pallets or edged boards.
DIY balcony sofa made from pallets
What furniture is suitable for glazed but cold balconies
Most often, when trying to arrange a balcony, owners glaze it with cold aluminum systems. Of course, they do not retain heat in winter, but they reliably protect the room from rain and snow, from noise and dust, so choosing furniture for such a balcony is much easier.
Built-in wardrobe for the balcony with hinged doors
Here you can place both garden furniture: wicker or folding, and wooden interior items. Shelves, chests of drawers, cabinets, cabinets made of chipboard on cold balconies will last no more than 3 years, since this material consists of pressed sawdust, changes in temperature and humidity will not spare the aesthetics of the furniture.
An example of how to make a folding chair with your own hands
It should be noted that on balconies, near the end wall, a built-in wardrobe is often installed; its frame is recommended to be made of wood or plywood, but the facades of the cabinet can be made of either wooden hinged or lifting roller blinds or sliding compartments, made of plastic or glass.
Built-in wardrobe on the balcony, photo of ergonomic furniture with different types of facades
