Austin Mortgage - Transform Your Balcony Into a Haven - A dying fern accompanied by a faded towel and a bike with flat tires – ever seen a balcony like this? Sound a little close to home, perhaps? If what you’re really looking for is a fun spot to barbeque or a captivating retreat, no need to worry. You can convert your piece of concrete into just about anything with a little attention and effort. Our team of Austin mortgage experts has created a step-by-step guide on how to turn your boring balcony into a wow factor.

1. local (512) 518-5200
toll-free (800) 234-0907 www.austinmortgage.com
Austin Mortgage – Transform Your Balcony Into a Haven
A dying fern accompanied by a faded towel and a bike
with flat tires – ever seen a balcony like this? Sound a
little close to home, perhaps?
If what you’re really looking for is a fun spot to
barbeque or a captivating retreat, no need to worry.
You can convert your piece of concrete into just about
anything with a little attention and effort. Our team
of Austin mortgage experts has created a step-by-step
guide on how to turn your boring balcony into a wow
factor.
Weather Conditions.
First things first, determine the weather your balcony must endure. If your spot faces the north, you
will be limited to shade-tolerant plants, while ones facing the west will be damaging to hard decora-
tions. Items such as wreaths and pottery are subject to fade and crack in the hot summer sun.
Space Usage.
Second, figure out how you want to use the space you have available and have fun with it. An outdoor
space should be tasteful and reflect your personality. This is the place to be creative and try something
a little more outrageous than you would in your home. You may even decide to change your balcony to
fit the different seasons or events you hold.
Make a map of sun/shade exposure and choose plants accordingly. You will save pre
cious time and money knowing that your sunny balcony is a killer for shade-loving
plants like philodendrons and ferns, or that the beautiful rose bush you have can’t sur
vive under the shadows.
As soon as you decide on a function – reading nook, dining room, soothing retreat – determine the
Copyright © 2012 Advocate Financial Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy & Terms of Use
The information provided in this marketing material is for information purposes only. A thorough investigation has not been conducted. The information here should not be
used for any real purpose. This material is not a committment to lend.

2. local (512) 518-5200
toll-free (800) 234-0907 www.austinmortgage.com
Page 2 - Austin Mortgage – Transform Your Balcony Into a Haven
livable space. Once this is completed, you can begin to add furniture. Some options you have include a
chaise longue, a porch swing, a wicker rocking chair, or a café table accompanied by a few chairs.
Personal Style.
Last but not least, give it some style. Try sticking within your design parameter to give the balcony a
sense of order. This will give you a coherent space in the end. If you wish to create an Italian feel, use
statues, fountains, and a couple of tapestries or add wicker and chintz to achieve an English cottage gar-
den essence. In order to anchor the space, pick one or more things to be your focal points. For example,
an arch, a seating area, or an excellent potted tree will give your eyes and mind somewhere to rest.
Try using a color palette that is simple and repeat it throughout the entire balcony or patio. A wide ar-
ray of colors and hues can sometimes be an eye sore. If you wish to add an unexpected splash of color,
select some potted flowers, a couple throw pillows, or even a painting balanced on an easel. Mixing
textures is another option. Mask your boring cement floor by putting in concrete paving stones or add
a small rug. This will supply the area with a feeling of luxury and warmth.
Create the illusion of ample space by adding massed plantings of pots filled with the same type of
flower or shrub. You can use bamboo, ficus, decorative grasses, or daisies to name a few. If you prefer
your space to have a little extra privacy, place a potted tree in an open area, add linen curtains displayed
over an arbor or set down a few panels of lattice. Mix and match lighting for the perfect ambiance. For
example, a spotlight to frame that piece of art, candles to illuminate the table, or even stings of white
lights to establish a romantic feel.
If you end up not liking some of your choices, throw something out and try again. Decorating a patio
or balcony is all about your sense of style and giving in to your creativity.
One thing to always remember is enjoy yourself and have fun!
For more helpful tips, visit AustinMortgage.com or call (800) 308-8503.
Copyright © 2012 Advocate Financial Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy & Terms of Use
The information provided in this marketing material is for information purposes only. A thorough investigation has not been conducted. The information here should not be
used for any real purpose. This material is not a committment to lend.