Name: MVWLocation: Los Angeles, CA
Type of space: Balcony
Tell us about your outdoor project and how you enjoy it: We have a narrow, long balcony space facing the street. It's sunny and perfect for a variety of cacti and sun-loving plants. The space doesn't allow for a more than a long table that we use to read the sunday paper, and drink our morning coffee. My husband created a small lawn (in a tub) for our small dog to use between walks, that we keep at one end of the balcony. Our landlord doesn't allow us to power wash or replace the "vintage tiles" on the balcony, even though the grout is missing, and they have definitely seen better days.
though that tile might irk you, i have to say - it gives off a really charming vibe to the patio. Goes well with the terra cotta.
How did you make the little lawn? I've been wanting to do something similar - but it would be for my indoor cats... Sod with stones under it?
view chusmabilly's profile
We used a small plastic tub from the garden area of Home Depot (about 1 1/2 feet long, 1 foot wide, and 3 inches deep).
We punched out a few drainage holes, put in some stones, added potting soil, and then got a piece of sod, that we then cut to fit. We soaked it, and kept the dog off of it for a few days so the sod could take hold.
It's a very inexpensive solution for small dogs (and cats!) that have to stay indoors for any period of time. Our dog loves it!
view mvw's profile
thanks for the info!
view chusmabilly's profile
I like the tile....it has character. I also LOVE the porch posts! Great space.
view baileyb's profile
Your landlord is right about those tiles! Don't hurt them, they look really nice. New grout *would* be a plus though... =)
view marie516's profile
Hello: I like your balcony very much. I covet those great backyards and gardens, but to be completely honest I don't see any of those options being financially pheasible in the near future. So I completely relate to your balcony: it is actually useful for me! I live on the last floor of my building and I'm getting a terrace built to have coffee with my boyfriend, summer drinks with friends and read a book. I will look at you for inspiration. And thank you for the lawn ideas: I have a small puppy and I'm sure he'll love it. Take care.
view barbara.agatha's profile
If you totally hate the tile (and I don't), there are outdoor rugs.
view whytephoenix's profile
I really like how you've got not just a balcony but a mini-environment there. Feels like a teeny tiny destination.
view Cindy@Dirtdujour.com's profile