The trees are finally turning green, and even if it’s not warm enough yet for an Aperol Spritz in the sun, enjoying your favorite cappuccino outdoors already feels wonderful. Yes, the last few months have been strange and challenging, but why not use this extra time at home to start a project that will instantly put you in a summer mood?

Just take a look outside – have you managed to keep your balcony clean and tidy during the rainy season? If not, roll up your sleeves and follow our easy tips ;-).

Like most of us, you probably left your balcony behind with the last rays of September sun, abandoning all the once-beautiful plants. The good news? Warmer days and long summer nights are just around the corner and will stay with us for months!

Whether you have a small balcony or a large rooftop terrace, now is the perfect time to create a cozy outdoor space where you can relax after work or enjoy slow weekend mornings.

That’s why we’ve put together a six-step guide to make it easy for you to prepare your outdoor area for the upcoming season.

1. Declutter Your Outdoor Space

Be honest – those rusty, broken flower pots haven’t been useful for years, and those empty beer crates should have been thrown away ages ago. Clear out everything that clutters your balcony and cannot be reused. If you didn’t remove old soil and dead plants last autumn, do it now before cleaning. And don’t forget to recycle properly!

2. Deep Clean for a Fresh Start

The goal is to keep dirt from the outside from entering your living room. Start by sweeping the area, removing dust, soil, and plant debris. Use a vacuum if needed, but be considerate – don’t push dirt off the balcony onto your neighbors! Then wash the floor, furniture, and railings with warm soapy water. If your floor is wood, avoid harsh scrubbing and use a mop instead. Finish by rinsing with a clean cloth or sponge.

3. Refresh and Protect Wooden Surfaces

If you have an old wooden deck or fences, you can easily give them a new, refreshed look. Clean the wood thoroughly with soap and a brush. Apply a degreaser to remove moss and restore the original tone. Let dry and apply protective oil to maintain its natural color.

You can also transform your terrace by painting the floor or wooden walls. A new color can completely change the personality of your outdoor space.

Here’s an example of a rooftop terrace renovation by the founder of Squarely, Agnieszka:

BEFORE

The old floor was dark and covered with mold, untouched for over 13 years. Agne and her fiancé cleaned and oiled the wooden surface to revive it. They also repainted the walls in light grey, creating a brighter, fresher, and more elegant atmosphere – the perfect contrast to green plants and Squarely planters.

AFTER

4. Enjoy a Sparkling View

Don’t forget your windows! Clean them thoroughly to let the light in and enjoy both indoor and outdoor views. Start by removing dust, then use window cleaner, dish soap, or vinegar mixed with water. Finish with a microfiber cloth for streak-free glass. Your balcony will shine like never before!

5. Add Plants and Create a Green Oasis

Maybe some of your plants survived winter and just need fresh soil. Repot them before buying new ones. Consider how much sunlight and wind your balcony receives to choose the right plants for your microclimate.

Always choose high-quality, durable planters that last longer than one season. By selecting sustainable SQUARELY planters with a smart self-watering system, you’ll bring style and convenience to your private urban garden.

• For a clean Nordic style, choose local herbs.
• Add a Mediterranean touch with olive or lemon trees.
• Enhance your cooking with home-grown vegetables and a mini herb garden.

Be creative with your plants placement. You can turn even the smallest outdoor space into a lush urban jungle. Think beyond traditional railing planters and add greenery to walls, fences, or even directly from the ground.

• Use them on wooden walls (GrowON White wood + HoldON black strap).
• Place them against brick walls (GrowON Dark oak + HoldON strap).
• Let them grow from the ground up (GrowWIDE Natural wood).

6. Add Hygge Vibes to Your Balcony

Danish design is all about comfort and hygge lifestyle. Make your balcony feel like an extension of your home by adding cozy furniture, lighting, soft blankets, and decorative accessories that reflect your personality. You might even include speakers for your favorite playlists.

Finally, reward yourself with a hot coffee, a glass of wine, or your favorite cocktail – and enjoy your beautifully transformed outdoor oasis!