Share this article
With the limited size of HDB and condominium apartments in Singapore, more homeowners are looking to optimise their home layouts by better utilising the balcony space. Rashi Tulshyan, the founder of homegrown interior design practice, Home Philosophy, suggests using the balcony as a dining space, an extension of the living room, a chillout space, or converting it into a gym or a play area for the kids among other possibilities.
According to Rashi, the benefits of using a balcony for other purposes, apart from having more usable space, is that the balcony usually enjoys plenty of natural light and it is typically located in a part of the home that is easily accessible. “It also adds more visual depth to the interior and heightens the overall feeling of spaciousness,” she points out.
Besides providing more space, repurposing the balcony also gives homeowners the opportunity to get creative and consider what they really want the balcony to be used for and how it can enhance their living environment.
Interior Design by Artistroom
Legal Restrictions for Balcony Renovation
Rashi reminds homeowners to always check with HDB or their condominium management before carrying out any renovation works.
HDB prohibits the erection of walls and the installation of windows, full height sliding doors, screens or structures of any form to enclose the balcony as it is meant to be a semi-outdoor space. The removal or modification of railings, as well as the relocation of the sliding door to the balcony is also not allowed.
Grilles with approved designs can be installed, but require prior approval from HDB, as does the replacement of the balcony sliding door. The laying of floor finishes over existing ones using only adhesive does not require a permit, but is subject to HDB’s guidelines.
For condominiums, homeowners are not allowed to make any alterations to elements on the building exterior without approvals from the MCST and any relevant government agencies. Examples include external windows and external walls, and balconies usually involve some form of such external features. Additions of, or improvements to grilles, blinds and awnings in balconies that may affect the appearance of the building also need to be cleared with the MCST.
Balcony Blinds & Furniture
Apart from how they would like to use the space, Rashi advises homeowners to also think about how much they plan on using that area.
Take into consideration the amount of natural direct and indirect light that the balcony receives. She cautions homeowners to always bear in mind the weather: “With the tropical heat and rain, it is important to consider how the space will be used. Natural light is good, but the downside is that too much direct sunlight can be glaring.”
Some weatherproofing options include outdoor blinds and retractable awnings. Select furniture that can withstand semi-outdoor conditions. Safety aspects such as the railing height should not be neglected and this is where invisible grilles may come in handy.
Balcony Flooring
Leveling up the existing balcony floor and extending the flooring from the adjacent space can create a seamless transition. If there are doors to the balcony, think about whether they can be opened fully and consider how the track, if any, sits on the floor in order to make the spaces feel well-integrated.
To make the new balcony space feel like a cohesive part of the home, adopt a similar or complementary style and colour scheme for the walls, floor and furniture.
What should I do with my balcony?
Home Gym
Equip your balcony with a foldable bench, resistance bands, and dumbbells to create a compact workout area. Perfect for morning stretches, yoga, or quick weight sessions without taking up indoor space.
Outdoor Laundry Station
Install retractable or foldable drying racks to make the most of natural ventilation for drying clothes. Add a compact shelf or hooks for pegs and laundry essentials to keep things tidy.
Craft or Hobby Corner
Dedicate the space to a hands-on hobby, whether it’s painting, crafting, or even a mini workshop. Use foldable tables, organisers for tools and supplies, and consider a small wall-mounted easel if painting is your passion.
Alfresco Office Nook
Transform the balcony into a fresh-air office setup with a slim, weather-resistant desk and chair. Add a few small storage solutions to keep essentials nearby, perfect for a change of scenery without leaving home.