For many, a balcony is a place for privacy, a small cozy closet in which you can both work and relax. This is a really full room, which requires appropriate decoration - and a sofa on the balcony plays a very important role.
Built-in models for a balcony or a loggia
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. Furniture for a balcony or loggia should be compact, and folding sofas or beds will fit perfectly. It is these sofas that are disassembled and assembled. You will have no difficulty transporting the finished product to the balcony - you can simply assemble it there.
Built-in sofas are minimalistic and can fit into any interior. They save space as much as possible, as they are installed in a special niche and allow you to use all the free space. They are also multifunctional - they can be used to store things, as they have built-in drawers. There are several optimal options for built-in sofas for a balcony of any size.
This, for example, "Chest." This is a sofa with enough free space inside. It is hidden under the seat and due to the opening mechanism it really looks like a chest. There may be one niche under the seat. Sometimes there are several niches separated by a thin partition. This option is convenient if you are going to store linen, any rags, clothes on the balcony.
The roll-out sofa is a full-fledged sleeping place for the night and a comfortable sofa (or even an armchair) during the day. Such sofas also have wide enough backs and armrests, and the latter can serve as a seat or stand for anything. They come with or without drawers. There are several models: "Dolphin", "Eurobook", "Accordion", "Clamshell". They are universal and really easy to transform, roll out. The bed can be either large or small, single. There are whole sets of roll-out furniture - for example, a sofa and an armchair.
If you have a notch or indent from the wall on your balcony, you can install the sofa there. This will be the so-called home-made built-in sofa. Moreover - you can especially not bother with the design. You can literally fill the seat with a blanket, throw pillows, arrange the back with the help of chipboard or plywood - and you're done.
Options
Sofas on the balcony are practically no different from the usual options - except that they are their mini-copies. The following types are especially popular:
- With drawers. Sofa dresser, sofa wardrobe. This is ideal if you want to not only create a cozy place, but also use the space with maximum benefit. These boxes are somewhat similar to the options for linen. You can fold it in bed linen, off-season clothes or any trinkets that are better not to lie in a prominent place. If you are going to do needlework on the balcony, then it will be possible to put your knitting needles or yarn there. This will be the so-called chest for useful little things.
- Corner construction. Due to its design, this furniture can take up very little space. It is installed close to the wall, which is very convenient. It is these sofas that are usually considered the most comfortable. The only problem is that due to the angular shape on the couch it will not be possible to lie down, and such products, as a rule, do not shine even with their length. But for gatherings they are just right. Another table is nearby, an armchair - and everything will look very nice.
- Sofa bed, chair bed. It is a folding design that takes up very little space - when unfolded, it looks like a small (seventy meter maximum) narrow single bed. Suitable for lovers of sleep in the fresh air, and a cabinet can easily fit nearby.
- Puff. A shapeless or soft sofa is a good option for fans to read or relax on the balcony. He adjusts to rest one of his kind, because it is very soft and comfortable, contributes to relaxation. However, remember that in the cold season you can not spend days on the balcony. It is forbidden to conduct heating in this part of the house, so you will be cold even with a heater. But you can simplify your life by installing a “warm floor”.
Not a very good option would be a sofa with a retractable design or folding furniture. The size of the room will not allow you to enjoy the spread out option. Of course, you can always buy one - if it fits perfectly into the interior unfolded or your balcony is large. However, it is not worth buying this type of sofa. The same thing with the sofa-book, with folding options.
If you do not have the opportunity to buy a sofa, pay attention to the benches. They must be necessarily with backs and not the smallest size. Yes, of course, benches can be harsh, but just enough to sheathe them with a dense soft cloth and lay them in pillows. This option is also suitable for wicker sofas. They can be left in their original form, since the wicker is a rather creative solution for the balcony. You can put pillows and a colorful plaid.
Hanging sofas, swing sofas and hammock sofas can only be used if you are sure that the ceiling will withstand.
Original design and ideas.
It is for the balcony that a stylized sofa is very suitable. You can turn your balcony into a nice and cozy place to relax, using wicker and soft materials, filling the space with pillows. Near the sofa you can install a bookcase or an easel with a chair.
If you prefer a balcony as a workplace, pay attention to simple wooden designs. Add light to the room. Choose a stylish leather sofa, if space permits - get a swivel chair with upholstery from the same material. There must be a desk, otherwise where you will work with a laptop or documents.
If your work is far from numbers and reports, but is connected, for example, with needlework or craftsmanship, free up the maximum amount of space on the floor. A very good solution would be to install shelves on the walls (at a distance from the floor) - for example, put a sofa, and attach shelves next to it. So you can use the workspace as conveniently and efficiently as possible.
Today it is fashionable to use a balcony as a place for sports. Of course, there can be no talk of his moving forms, but, for example, yoga, meditation or training on simulators are quite suitable.
How to do it yourself?
Making a balcony sofa yourself is not so difficult. The main thing is to strictly follow all instructions and be careful. A homemade sofa will definitely suit you with its appearance and size, because the height and width of the balcony will be taken into account.
So here is what you will have to do.
- First, measure the dimensions of the balcony and the approximate dimensions of the sofa, think about how it will be placed on the plane. If necessary, draw or create a layout.
- As a material for the manufacture of the frame, it is best to use natural boards. They are stronger and easier to work with. You can take a ready-made europallet, a sheet of plywood or chipboard. They should be dense enough (at least ten millimeters) so that then they do not deteriorate from frequent friction.
- Cut the sheet according to the dimensions that you have outlined and connect the boards with screws or special furniture studs (using a drill). For fastening you will also need furniture corners. In the same way, fix the plywood sheet on the frame, in place of the seat and back. They need to be lined with foam rubber, and after finishing, decorate with fabric, leather or add another layer of pillows. Make this the best furniture stapler. You can simply cover the frame with cushions on which you will be comfortable sitting. So you do not need to suffer with a stapler, and it is easy to wash.
- To make a folding sofa, you will need a special folding design. These are sold in any hardware store. For your own convenience, you can attach the wheels to the sofa.
- If you want to equip the sofa with drawers, then you need to attach the seat relative to the frame as a door relative to the wall. Use special loops for this. Then the bottom should be empty, it is best to sheathe it with an insulator, cloth or film. There you can put several baskets for storing things.
How to make a sofa on the balcony, see the next video.
The first criterion is the purpose of the area
The design of a single room can not be thought out and worked out to the smallest detail, without taking into account the purpose of the designed area.
So, for example, if the balcony is designed as an extra bed, it is better to give preference to a folding sofa. These models are installed at the end wall in order to unfold along the premises.
But, before choosing one or another model, it is necessary to take into account that the length of the berth for each of them is different, so you should first measure the length of the balcony from the wall to the door. Such actions are carried out in order to prevent a possible barrier to the entrance of the sofa when unfolded.
When organizing a berth for small children, you can choose a children's sofa, which is laid out to the side. When assembled, this model is very similar to a chair with one armrest.
Owners of individual residential houses can diversify the design of loggias or terraces. Terraces and loggias of cottages have large areas, therefore, dimensional models equipped with the “eurobook” mechanism, corner sofas, sofas additionally equipped with drawers, and many others can be installed here.
It is much easier to choose a sofa for a loggia, equipped for rest and relaxation. In this case, preference is given to models designed for seating. In order to save space, it is better to give preference to models that do not have armrests, and choose sofas that fully match the width of the room.
Options look elegantly and stylishly, in which the back is separately attached to the wall in the form of a soft headboard or small pillows in size.
In cases where conservation of small items is planned on the balcony, you can consider the options for sofas on the balcony with drawers under the seats. Preference may be given to:
- independent, freestanding structures that fill the free space,
- drawers that look like a small chest of drawers or a bedside table,
- drawers with a top cover that can act as a soft seat.
The second criterion is the general style of interior design
The style of the interior is a criterion that cannot be ignored in the design of the room. Not one, even the highest quality, beautiful and comfortable sofa will look harmonious if it does not correspond to the general design of the room. Before purchasing a sofa, you need to think through to the smallest detail the interior design, colors and style.
If you choose a sofa for a loggia decorated in the Provencal style, then it is better to give preference to soft models equipped with a wooden or forged frame. General requirements for the design of such furniture are: simplicity of form, smooth lines, a minimum of decorating elements.
Scandinavian-style upholstered items are also simple and restrained. These models are studded with cotton, velor, satin, linen.
The predominant color scheme is shades of white, beige or coffee. Unlike the Provencal style, in which the textiles can be in a cage or strip, and also decorated with floral ornaments, the fabric for decorating furniture in the Scandinavian style is plain. Such furniture is additionally decorated with wooden pillows and plaids with bright prints.
The sofa on the balcony, made in the classical style, is distinguished by the presence of carved decor elements, graceful forms, ornate backs, decorated with decorative gilded overlays. For the manufacture of such furniture, valuable wood is used, and as the main material for upholstery, velor, velvet or brocade in plain colors can be used.
Furniture in the loft style stands out for its considerable size, the complete absence of decorating elements, and strict geometric shapes. Items of such furniture are upholstered in plain leather of soft colors.
Baroque furniture is striking in its design and bright colors. Sofas in this style are abundantly decorated with gilded and carved elements, luxurious textiles in rich blue, burgundy or emerald color.
If you have enough free time, like handicraft, and creative ideas overwhelm you, you can make a sofa on the balcony with your own hands. In this case, it will be possible to take into account all the features of the design of the room and its parameters.
How to make a sofa on the balcony with your own hands
Making furniture with your own hands has a huge number of advantages:
- There is an opportunity to equip even non-standard premises in size and configuration.
- The choice of textiles for decoration and material for the manufacture of the frame will be unlimited: everything will depend on the individual preferences and wishes of the owner.
- Making furniture with your own hands is a profitable activity. In this case, improvised materials that, for example, remained after repair or construction, can also be used.
- Making furniture yourself is also gaining valuable experience. Similarly, in the future it will be possible to produce furniture for a garden or summer cottage, original gifts for relatives, friends and relatives.
Necessary materials and tools
For the manufacture of the sofa you will need the following materials:
- wooden bars made of hardwood
- chipboard or plywood sheets,
- stuff for stuffing (if it is supposed to produce sofas with soft seats),
- adhesive for fixing stuffing material,
- fabric for upholstery,
- paint or furniture lacquer for decorating individual elements, as well as protecting them from damage,
- wood preservative,
- ready folding mechanism.
If the master plans to further decorate the sofa, then it is necessary to prepare elements for the decor in advance: fabric for applications, braid, buttons and others.
Some tools are also required:
- measuring instruments and marking tools: pencil, felt-tip pen or marker, tape measure,
- hacksaw or jigsaw,
- fasteners (it is better to refuse to purchase nails and prepare screws or screws, and for the best fixation of two parts, use staples, metal corners,
- drill, screwdriver, screwdriver,
- grinding machine (can be replaced with sandpaper),
- furniture stapler, which is required to fix the upholstery fabric,
- scissors, pliers, knife.
Preparatory work
To make the product as convenient, comfortable and durable as possible, you must:
- get advice from furniture store employees,
- draw a drawing of the future sofa,
- to think over to the smallest detail the general appearance of the product, decoration elements,
- purchase the required materials.
Criteria for choosing a sofa for a balcony or loggia
When it is finally determined that a resting place will be created, you need to choose the right sofa. To do this, evaluate the following factors:
- Options for spaciousness. It should be borne in mind that the furniture should not occupy the entire area,
Built-in sofas are minimalistic 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 berth,
Furniture for a balcony or loggia should be compact, and folding sofas or beds will fit perfectly.
- 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.
- Colour. Must match the chosen design.
You will have no difficulty transporting the finished product to the balcony - you can simply assemble it there.
Sofa with storage box
The most popular option. When there is an opportunity to store things, a place for relaxation acquires everyday functionality.
They are also multifunctional - they can be used to store things, as they have built-in drawers.
- internal.
"Chest". This is a sofa with enough 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 more compact. It is enough to raise the seat up to gain access to the storage area. A sofa on the balcony with a storage box is suitable for household people who correctly use all the features of the apartment.
Sometimes there are several niches separated by a thin partition. This option is convenient if you are going to store linen, any rags, clothes on the balcony.
Sliding sofas
This option is widely used in small apartments. Having the ability to move apart, there is another berth. It can be used for sleeping in the summer or for guests.
When folded, the sofa does not take up much space that does not clutter up small balconies.
Sleeper sofas
This option is suitable for large balconies. It makes it possible to get a good rest, unlike sliding sofas, as it provides a comfortable berth with a solid mattress. Most often, installation is made on glazed balconies - loggias.
A loggia sofa can be a great solution for expanding your living space.
Decorative sofas
These include rattan. This is a very beautiful furniture that gives a special charm. Soft pillows and flowing shapes allow you to enjoy your vacation.
Combine with a small coffee table, and are suitable for medium-sized balconies.
Choosing a sofa size
An important rule when buying is to remember that the volume of the store visually reduces furniture. Therefore, it is always necessary to look at the technical dimensions of the selected item.
If you have a notch or indent from the wall on your balcony, you can install the sofa there.
Before buying, clearly measure all the parameters of the loggia and do not forget about the parameters of the front door, then to bring and set the purchase to where you planned.
Due to its design, this furniture can take up very little space.
Examples of mini sofas
A sofa on the balcony is an excellent solution not only for small balconies and loggias. Installing miniature furniture, there is a place for additional placement, for example, a small armchair or a coffee table. This will make it possible to create a recreation area where you can spend time not only alone, but also with friends.
For gatherings, they are just right. Another table is nearby, an armchair - and everything will look very nice.
Narrow sofas
This format is suitable for installation in the corner. When designing, it is embedded between the inner and outer walls. Visually merges with the interior. They can be both sliding and provided with boxes for storing things.
This is ideal if you want to not only create a cozy place, but also use the space with maximum benefit.
Modern style
Here, neutral color tones and smooth forms are suitable. The sofa will look good. In a modern style, there is no place for functionality, but there should be maximum comfort:
It is for the balcony that a stylized sofa is very suitable.
- soft orthopedic mattress.
You can turn your balcony into a nice and cozy place to relax, using wicker and soft materials, 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 the health of the child.
Near the sofa you can install a bookcase or an easel with a chair.
Classic style
The combination of beauty, comfort and functionality. In addition to convenience, the sofa should be equipped with the necessary functions for everyday life: a box for things and the possibility of additional space.
Corner structures can also have a pull-out or sliding mechanism, thereby providing a comfortable place to sleep.
Scandinavian style
The primacy of nature. Geometrically regular shapes, wooden legs, armrests and the plane of the sofa. Soft pillows for comfort. Performed on the brink of minimalism, creates an atmosphere of the north. It is better to relax on it under a rug and with a hot mug of tea.
Drawers are perfect for bedding, clothes or any trinkets.
High tech
This is the style of the future. The combination of plastic, metal and glass. Flexible forms and sparkling colors allow you to smoothly combine with the surroundings, to become an inconspicuous addition. Here we need extraordinary solutions, made according to the latest fashion.
Functionality is not the place, the main style.
Industrial style
Minimum interior decoration. Space and simplicity dominate this style. An ideal option is a couch on the balcony. It will not take up much space and will serve as a wonderful corner for relaxation.
If you prefer a balcony as a workplace, pay attention to simple wooden designs.
Views and location options
The design of the balcony sofa and its dimensional parameters depend on the destination and location, according to the form of manufacture of the product can be divided into the following categories:
- Narrow rectangular. A sofa of small width is usually placed along a long wall opposite the glazing, if you put a table next to it, the place easily turns into a dining area. With this placement in the free space under the sofa you can store household items.
- Rectangular Short. Located near a short side wall, the design can be used to store things or move forward, organizing a berth.
- Corner They are used on balconies and loggias having an arched shape, the advantage of this design is the rational use of impractical angular space. Many corner models are equipped with roll-out or retractable pillows (mattresses), which are used for rest and sleep.
By design and purpose, sofas can be divided into the following groups:
- Sofa-pouf. The product takes up little space and is a single soft frameless design (without pronounced armrests and a back), usually installed near a narrow side wall. Some models provide the ability to store things in a drawer under the seat.
- Sofa chest. The main attention in this variety is given to the storage of household items, so the design is more like a voluminous chest, on the top cover of which there is a seat with a separate back. When used, the lid with soft filler and decorative upholstery is thrown up to gain access to the interior of the storage box.
- Sofa shop. The design resembles a bench (trestle bed) with a backrest, the elements of which are covered with soft material and upholstered with decorative fabric, the space under the seat remains free. It is installed in any place of the balcony room, being a small product in width, the corner construction of the bench is quite practical with placement along a narrow long and side wall.
Sofa bench and sofa
Sofa book and sofa wardrobe
How to make your own sofa with a drawer
In many cases, the manufacture of a sofa has several advantages over its purchase: the product is made of the right size, upholstered with suitable material, its functionality is selected at its discretion. When assembling with your own hands, it’s not a matter of complex retractable and folding constructions with sleeping places, but you can easily make a sofa on the balcony with a box for storing household items, a suitable model of which is difficult to find in the distribution network.
Of course, you can order such a product from one of the many furniture manufacturers, overpaying several times, but this is not very practical, given that making a small sofa on a glazed balcony with your own hands is not difficult. Below we consider the manufacture of the most simple and practical design on the balcony - a sofa-chest with a hinged top cover-seat.
Wood frame assembly
The most simplified model of the sofa has the shape of a parallelepiped. According to the prepared drawing, the bars are fastened, which are then sheathed with plywood. So that the structure can withstand sufficiently large loads, it is better to use metal corners and screws as fixing materials. Some parts can even be further glued.
The sofa on the balcony, used to store things, tools or canned goods, may have a separately made cover, which can be completely removable or folding.
Covering the frame of the product: options for execution
The sofa frame can be upholstered in several ways, differing in the algorithm for performing work.
The first option involves a separate sewing of soft pads, which are then attached to the finished frame.
The second option offers the initial fixation of the filler on a wooden frame with the subsequent lining of its upholstery fabric, and only after that the connection of the prepared parts into a single whole.
Masters with extensive experience in carrying out such work recommend giving preference to the second method, since there is the opportunity to hide the edges of the folded fabric and other imperfections.