DIY Tiny Balcony Makeover For Under $350 | Flower Wall

Hey guys! I'm Alexandra Gater and I show you how to do rental-friendly upgrades and DIY projects on a budget. New videos every Friday! Today's video is a teeny tiny city balcony on a major budget! I show you a hack for covering ugly outdoor concrete, how to DIY a flower wall, an Ikea hack for a vertical garden. Plus, I show you how to have a hanging pendant light (that actually works) even if you don’t have an outlet outdoors - yes, seriously!
Products mentioned in this video:
Links marked with a AF are affiliate links. That means I receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products through this link. Products marked with * means they were gifted to me from brands but I was not paid to feature them in this video.
Floor tiles: fave.co/30z3HAt * AF
Ladder: fave.co/30xrAZg * AF
Floor planter: homesense.ca
Faux cactus: ikea.ca (no longer online)
Railing planters (similar): amzn.to/2jFMIfZ AF
Rug: fave.co/2LSpsXY AF
Coffee table: homesense.ca
Pendant light: homesense.ca
Battery powered lightbulb: amzn.to/2l7B2TF * AF
Cushions: www2.hm.com/en_ca/home/shop-by-product/cushions/cushion-covers.html *
Chalk paint: fave.co/2JvxmEQ AF
Bench: fave.co/2LPSLtZ * AF
Outdoor loveseat: fave.co/2RoXMuy * AF
What I'm wearing:
Dress (similar): fave.co/2jJ5e7p AF
Sandals: fave.co/2jJ4kYz AF
Jumpsuit: fave.co/2LOWsjG AF
Let's be friends:
Instagram: alexandragater
Pinterest: www.pinterest.ca/alexandragater/
Shop my Amazon store: www.amazon.ca/shop/alexandragater
Sign up to my newsletter to get decor tips and products in your inbox every week: alexandragater.com
Retro label maker I use: amzn.to/2J7Ukk8 *
Thank you so much to each and every one of you for your continued support. I get to make these videos for a living, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it.
Video shot and edited by Carla Antonio: www.carlaantonio.com/
All music sourced by licensing.
All opinions are my own. It's important to hire licensed professionals for certain projects; if you're unsure or unqualified, please don't attempt any projects seen in my videos yourself.

[@shesmiles09]

I was shocked when I read the comments about the flower wall. I absolutely loved the flower wall. It looks like something Anthropologie would do in a window display and brought really great color to the space. It was so creative and beautiful. Wow! 🌸🌹🌼🌺💐🌻🌷

[@gingergrant6759]

You going to constantly have to deal with dead flowers.

[@lovealways2158]

I loved the outdoor light with the battery operated lightbulb...genius!...but I probably wouldn't have spent 80 dollars on it if I was planning on cutting the cord.

[@jemilah1190]

Yeah seems extreme

[@jaxxgianni1008]

I know im randomly asking but does anybody know of a method to get back into an instagram account..? I was dumb forgot my login password. I would appreciate any assistance you can give me!

[@fernandochase2848]

@Jaxx Gianni Instablaster =)

[@jaxxgianni1008]

@Fernando Chase Thanks so much for your reply. I found the site through google and Im in the hacking process atm. Takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@TheHeroSaver]

I love that her channel has a more elevated style to do things/things you can buy and invest in if you don't want to just DIY or thrift

[@maunarose]

The click flooring is great. The details of painted legs and pots are my favorite.

[@seekingserenitydaily]

Thanks for showing the night time view with all of the lights on!

[@sheisMsA]

That cactus looks outstanding, a diy of a faux cactus would be bomb :D

[@heatherdavison2813]

Would LOVE a diy of the faux cactus. It's awesome. Thx for fun video!

[@rovieriel621]

Kerrigan!

[@rockywood21]

Looks kind of hard to get around though.

[@aeroai]

My favorite part is definitely that light bulb; I had no idea that kind of thing existed! Though two things I'd like to see in future videos: budget friendly and/or DIY outdoor art that's rain and wind safe, and budget friendly and/or DIY outdoor furniture! Both get pricy very quickly, and this makeover was much less expensive since she already had the furniture, and the art is so fragile. Thanks for making such great content! 🌺

[@minichopstick]

Hmm $350 is a lot considering she already had the outdoor couch and the skinny wooden bench. I loved the idea of the pendant light HOWEVER when you buy an $80 light just to destroy it it seems very impractical?? Just a tip for everyone who loved the pendant light idea, thrift a lamp shade or old hanging light instead of destroying an expensive new one.

[@kiki29073]

Or a decorative trash can.

[@sylvial.7272]

There are so many ways to make such a pendant light more cheaper then in this video, but the idea on his own is still amazing for any place without electrical... 👍!!!!

[@snowy12841]

YES! Love your idea! Personally, I’d love to see less IKEA in every video & more thrifting or discount stores like Ross, Homegoods, Walmart, etc. Some variety would be nice.

[@shannijones4587]

it's not destroyed. it still works and you can go back later and add a plug if you need to, or even a new chord.

[@globby4396]

Yes! Thats what I was thinking. Another thing are solar pendant lights from anywhere especially rn at IKEA they have beautiful solar powered lanterns for $8 to $20

[@itscarolinemary]

that cactus looks so real! I need a DIY video on it! and the space turned out so well! wow. I love all of the colours and the greenery.

[@vickinoeske1711]

I like the flower wall but feel a better solution would be a big mirror with a lightweight self for candles, plants. Love the faux cactus❤🌵

[@nnejdee5094]

Vicki Noeske yes a shelf for candles would’ve been so cozy!

[@baylieelder3548]

Just now finding your channel and omg!!! I've been on a string of, like, 5 in a row at this point and you're really making me, a busy college student, want to suddenly jump 5 years ahead to having a little renter house and a more permanent space where I can make something my own for once!! Wow! You're truly so inspiring and you talk with so much passion in what you do. It's refreshing to see someone so into their craft, and I definitely need to jump that 5 years right now so I can utilize all your ideas!!!

[@pamelaatkinson5710]

You did a great job here. This place was barren and you brought so much life to it. Love the flooring and the rug. Love her couch and the coffee table and the color and texture the pillows add. Love the flower wall. Love the planters and the faux cactus. Love the ladder with the pots and if I changed anything, I'd just add more plants there. Love the bench and ladder having coordinated painted legs. Love that you gave her a light so she can read or entertain comfortably at night. Home run on this one.

[@leah__gail]

Love the idea with the dried flowers! Maybe would use artificial for outdoors and longevity. 🥰

[@LindsayTriesIt]

Usually when I watch decorating shows I always figure that I won’t be able to find the exact same stuff because it’s from American stores, but as a fellow Torontonian, it’s great to see some Canadian options! Love the pendant light, what a great idea! Our balcony dividers are metal so I think utilizing something magnetic there could also work! Beautiful job!

[@baatschanga]

You should start watching TheSorryGirls then. They are from Canada as well

[@LindsayTriesIt]

@@baatschanga Yes! Great suggestion. I love their work too!

[@FurnitureFan]

Good idea, if there's some steel in the metal. Check first that a magnet will stick to the metal. Sometimes they're aluminium and magnets won't hold to that.

[@jessiesaunders-drutz5493]

You totally outdid yourself with this makeover!!

[@yourparentingsucks2215]

I have been watching these videos a lot lately, and now im inspired for having a career in interior decorating. Thank you for making these videos, because this is something that you can work hard on and have a good time doing. something that can also be therapeutic. The environment around anyone is more important than some may think.

[@lindawarden-burglund9603]

I love the floor, cotton rug, and pillows! That light is really cute too. Very clever!

[@MsBlue68]

You did a great job with limited space. I especially like the battery powered pendant light.

[@2532BLUE]

My favourite part is the pendant light. Great idea. I was looking for a light idea for my patio and know I found it. Thanks

[@darawilson4101]

I'm absolutely loving that flower wall!! What a cute idea!!! Plus the tile!! I've never even heard about something like that so cool!!

[@CReyes-kf6cn]

I read so many unfavorable comments here. The most important is what the owner say and feel about the outcome. Keep decorating Ms. Alexandra!

[@goddessdivaqueen]

Alexandra! You have outdone yourself here. This is sooo good. Thanks for the tip on the 100% cotton outdoor rug. I have a metal balcony. I got an outdoor rug for it and the water NEVER dries when it rains or snows. I'll be purchasing a cotton rug now. It will be easy to fold and put away for winter too.

[@michelepaccione8806]

LOVE the flower wall. What a great idea. And the pendant with the battery-powered lightbulb...brilliant.

[@kellyhubbell1758]

I love that you give us affordable ideas! This is beautiful😌

[@arwagadi]

Hi Alexandra, I have recently started following your channel and I am from India. I just love love love your style and room makeovers. We live in really small spaces and watching your videos are so encouraging to make them look beautiful. 🧡

[@saimakhalid8156]

You just nailed the narrow part of the balcony. Loved it

[@roseanneharder9969]

Love the flower wall and the pendant light is magic.

[@Fnattihatt]

This is so cute!!!! I might have to do this on my balcony, but in a more modern goth style!

[@Esveniaa]

I would totally watch that if you would make a video

[@Fnattihatt]

@@Esveniaa I mean... I probably won't, but who knows. ^_^

[@Rollimggiant]

Modern and goth dont go together Goth is from a long time ago. Thats like saying victorian modern

[@badgerinabluedress4866]

@@Rollimggiant You don't get out much, do you? Goth has evolved. There's so many different types. I love the Gothic Lolitas in Japan and the Steampunk Goth. Goth is versatile. You can make it modern or vintage or futuristic. Massive sartorial fun. =)

[@hidnpnts]

@@badgerinabluedress4866 agreed! modern goth is very possible. Instead of going for light tones, get more black items with pops of color like dark purple or red. You can get lots of modern items in these colors you just have to know how to style them (:

[@kathybeck5957]

I've been binge watching you today. You are REALLY GOOD at what you do. Subscribed and shared. When I saw you do the outdoor light, I was amazed. Not many people know you can do this. I live in Alabama and the electricity goes out a lot. We have a generator to use but I make battery operated lights such as yours and out of empty whiskey bottles. Just about anything that is glass. My bottles also have shades which means there are two different lights. Love your style. Rock On little Lady, Rock On!!!!!!

[@annieburgos805]

I didn't think you could do much with it when you first introduced the space but wow, I'm so surprised! You really maximized the space. It's gorgeous! Great job!

[@meganshields9991]

That cactus looks so real. Y’all should definitely do a tutorial on how to paint it like that. 🌵

[@antoinettemiles5741]

Literally looking at my dead plants and my pitiful balcony and I got on KZbin to find a balcony Reno/DIY video and my wishes were granted!

[@OnlytypeisChocolate]

Freaking Amazing!!! I’m really enjoying your videos- so many cool ideas!!!! That cactus diy needs to be uploaded like yesterday

[@kmctcreative]

tbh it would have looked amazing to have a faux plant/succulent wall where the real flowers are!!

[@debbiegodinez2119]

Katy Christina yes what a great idea!!!

[@Sim1onelaro]

Yes please post the faux cactus paint hack. I have had this idea but have been too nervous to try it since I am not a painter.

[@immadeofwaxxlarry]

I love the flower wall, it could also be done with fake flowers. You created a beautiful space 😊

[@peggykrogh6763]

great idea of plant ladder, dirt at base of fake flowers!! the wall of flowers is beautiful and happy!!

[@mamasaidno1749]

While I am not digging the flower wall (I would have done shelving for plants or maybe some artwork), it is still a cute space. Great job!

[@MusicaErika]

I love it! Love the rug and the idea of the ceiling lamp is genius. 🌵looks so real, love the vertical garden and those dry roses are so cool 😎

[@ToriBissell]

This is so incredible. So many sweet little details. I love the flower wall... I think maybe you could also find faux flowers and repeat this with those and it would be more durable.

[@emmashell1356]

Hello from France! I discovered your channel recently, and I just keep watching your videos since ... all of your ideas are great, I love the style you input into your makeovers, it’s fresh and feminine. In this balcony makeover, my favorite part is the flower wall, and the plant ladder comes very close to it. I guess I’m going to pick up some of your tricks ! Best regards from Alsace, eastern France Marie-Hélène

[@felicityurselmann3318]

i love this so much.thats the cutest coffee table ever.

[@MaryseMeunier]

Everything is very nice : the plants, the bench, the lights, the floor... The flower wall is beautiful, but I'm concerned the sun will fade their colours with time. Isn't it what it does ?

[@cupstudios3788]

Petit Pingouin you can try to spray modpondge or any other type of spray on glue/sealant 😇

[@tessok8231]

The wood will go mouldy as it has at my apartment.. And yep the fake plants fade.

[@pamelaatkinson5710]

This is on the dowel so it is easy to take inside and hang there depending on the weather. The flowers can be sprayed if you are concerned about fading. Also it is a decor item so it will be used for a time and then be replaced with a new idea.

[@TorMarie]

I really love that you made over a narrow space! I live in a Georgian-era terrace that's all narrow ledges and landings and it's tricky to figure out what to do with them, inside and out. Mine can't even fit a bench, but I'm feeling inspired to dress up my planters and maybe put down some decking. Also totally making the dried flower display for indoors. 💕

[@moniquedubos6612]

Great job! So warm and feminine and inviting. I’m inspired and can’t wait for warmer weather to get to work on my patio in Minneapolis. I also gotta say WOW, people are so critical! I’m kind of shocked at some the comments. I say brava to you for your creativity and your guts in sharing it with the world.

[@angelabrown766]

That pendant light ! I had no idea you could do that. Great idea

[@RoseMary-vs3io]

The pendant light is genius, great budget makeover, loved this

[@annachristina6539]

I can't believe how many negative remarks I saw below! I ALWAYS feel so warm & happy after your vids:) I've decorated all my life... & my daughter got her degree. I see nothing but potential in you, & a glaring bright future... Stay as sweet as you are, & don't allow anyone's jealousy affect you. :)

[@monicasmart94]

Love the floor tiles, the two furniture styles, the rug, and the lights!

[@marywest2896]

very nice, the only thing...I would get an "S" hook you know the kind that you use on a pot rack? I would use it to hang the water pitcher on the ladder instead of looped over, that way you don't have to pull the ladder away from the wall to take it off. love the rug color goes so well with the flower colors.

[@hollyhasegawa6095]

WowAlexandra, this is so chic and turned out amazing. I have real plants but no cacti, but this faux cactus is amazing, I really thought it was real! I love how you utilized every inch of the space and made such great use of it. I'm truly loving it, thanks so much for sharing, keep up with the great content I love your channel.

[@priboechaat]

I just can't get enough of your videos! ❤

[@michelel92]

Great ideas! I use my balcony as much as I can once it gets nice.

[@Tanya-rr8gz]

That light 💡 is a game changer.

[@denisethrondsen3399]

Super cute! I LOVE the flower wall!🌺🌺🌺

[@beachydayz]

Looks amazing. Love the flower wall. Going to try it over my bed. Battery operated light bulb? Who knew. Thank you for sharing

[@rdp_78]

I probably would of gone with a DIY art piece(s) instead of a flower wall. Just a suggestion, everything else was awesome!

[@christinevaldes7397]

It's the only piece that I don't think is going to hold up. Between the flowers getting bleached by the sun and ripped up by wind, it's gonna look trashed so fast!

[@sallygardner7718]

Roberto Penalba I don’t think she meant it as a permanent art installation. She commented as much.

[@divinemissw]

Flower wall looks sad

[@gerrywilson6579]

Roberto Penalba I agree about the DIY art piece/tapestry.

[@sarahholland1375]

Agree. The flower wall looks like my kids classes art work displays. Not very grown up. I'd paint all the brickwork bright white too, it's very dingy looking.

[@Suckmycurlshoe]

I am so happy about your channel. When I say HAPPY I mean JOY. I just love your videos🌸

[@angiemiranda7769]

Wow! That turned out absolutely beautiful! You are so good at decor and making over spaces!😊

[@natashadali3822]

Love it boho look is in now great job so bright and colourful

[@joanndiresta1615]

I was hoping for shelving on the divider wall....or art....or pretty curtains, the flowers ( although pretty ) just didn't thrill me. I would give this make over an 8 -1 for not continuing the flooring -1 for the flower wall...Great job !!!

[@katsoutofthebox]

JoAnn DiResta I agree a 100%

[@lorawiese5897]

I agree with how Alexandra did it. Not putting those flooring down split the sitting area.

[@tammym7940]

Wow! This is an amazing patio makeover! You gave me some great ideas. I actually have tomato, pepper and herbs in pots and need to put them up on the wall. Terrace gardening is what i want to achieve. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@rayssinha9]

Thanks for sharing your creative ideas! 💖

[@seattlegirl2077]

Drilling into the building is probably in major violation of any apartment building or condo's rules that could get you in serious trouble. If you hit electrical or damage something else you can't see on the outside you are going to be liable. Be careful! Is there a Command hook or something else that could be used?

[@ashavila7999]

I think as long as the ceiling is smooth the hook will work. I imagine you need the one for heavy weight bearing items. And you might have to fiddle with chord a bit more.

[@francescac2589]

I thought the same thing. In fact, it would have been helpful if the video clarified what type of building this is. It might be 'an apartment' to the renter, but if it is in fact a condo, there are very strict rules by which both owners and tenants have to abide. I've lived in two different condos, over a span of 10 years, and while of course, you can drill into concrete, that does not mean that one is allowed. In fact, the video had several violations: hanging lights on the railing breaks the 'common look and feel' of the exterior of the building, (which is perceived to drive down market value), hanging planters on the balcony railing is strictly verboten, as the weight of the baskets reduces structural integrity, (railings have been known to fall and are a huge safety issue), and drilling into a balcony floor would be a huge violation, as it is considered a common element, (owned by the building, not the condo owner). The video could have at least advised that one should verify the rules of their building before proceeding.

[@seattlegirl2077]

Exactly! Although our condo rules do allow solar lights on balconies but that is all. Perhaps an apartment building wouldn't be so concerned. But I don't think any building owner would want anything drilled into. She has lovely ideas but I think they need to be modified a little.

[@wilmaknickersfit]

I agree. Isabelle LaRue's channel 'Engineer Your Space' is much better for renters and she's done a couple of tiny balconies (much smaller than this one). She is just as creative, but her ideas are much more affordable and practical. Lots of her ideas avoid the practical restrictions of renters and the changes are easily reversed when you move - often you can take your materials with you to your new home.

[@Sunnbuzz]

@@wilmaknickersfit I'm not sure if any of you are in Toronto Ontario but we have VERY lax rules, the only thing I might see as an issue is in a Condo but that is a solid concrete balcony, the issue would be more could it fly off and hit someone, the drilling of a hook is more a non issue - and I'm a property manager in Toronto

[@towse]

This is so beautiful! Amazing job, Alexandra!

[@HobbitBroad]

I love the coffee table and the little candle holder on it!

[@pandasgym101]

this balcony looks so good

[@MariaLoysen]

Love this! So uplifting and simple for this formerly blah space ⚘🌹🌺🌻

[@cbahm]

I love, love, love your sense of style!

[@eastandlane]

Looks so good!! And that pendants light hack is genius!!!

[@HapaBunny]

LOVED this transformation! The color scheme, practical solutions -- everything was spot! on!

[@-MariotAndVoid-]

So cute. I would love to see more outside/patio makeovers! ❤️❤️❤️

[@gingersdollworld]

MIND BLOWN!!! love that hack!! could even use it indoors

[@theenglishsuccesscoach3251]

Alexandra you are AMAZING!! I’m obsessed with all your ideas. Thank you for such great and useful content 🙏🏼

[@christinat.7171]

Love what you did. So creative in such a small and odd space to work in. Turned out beautifully 👏👏👏

[@JasmineCOnu]

Loved it ! The pendant light was inspired! Just wish you’d credited Mr Kate for the flower wall inspo.

[@blaireshoe8738]

I'm sure Mr Kate isn't the only one who's done a flower wall 😅

[@fammiley]

Omg that lightbulb thing just saved my life ! Thank youuu

[@TheStitchSessions]

Yes, yes, yes! The living area is the same layout as my small balcony. Loads of inspiration:) Thank you so much for doing this video. Beeeeeautiful !👍😍

[@123videocity]

The lightbulb is ingenious. I’m going to copy!

[@symonroe8095]

Omg thank you for this! I was literally asking for this on another video!

[@hel3319]

Love it. Great idea with the light. I think I will try that too.

[@karolinarahim-dziuba4882]

The flower wall is the best!

[@amyheng4892]

Everything turned out great

[@jamiefaith834]

I love your ideas! I like how you added more of a personalized affect with the two tone paint.

[@charlottewright6569]

So so beautiful! 😍 Love the flower wall. I would be tempted to put a big leafy plant in the corner next to the sofa too.

[@roxanyeli5274]

Omg!!! I was just looking for this video (already on the journey to style my balcony) so helpful!

[@lindarosenthal6835]

Great job. So cute and welcoming! Love the flooring tiles and the rug!

[@user-tf7et3pw7j]

Well done. Definite Mr. Kate inspired flower wall!

[@isarocket3411]

The pendant light is genious!! I would have done the entire floor un those black tiles, though 💖💕

[@FO-mp3lu]

I loved the pendent with the battery powered bulb. I think will try it too.

[@janedrewel1329]

I love this The pendant and rug are my favorite.

[@bethanclaireprice7835]

Looks amazing, Alexandra! I really want to see the DIY tutorial on that cactus.

[@mariaminervasevillaiglesia6722]

Do you know what Alexandra? It looks like even more intimate and cozy. Great job!

[@TheFrnchrn99]

What a difference, looks great!

[@lauraroberts6533]

This is so cute and well done!!🌵

[@maggiecheong6540]

I love the flower wall

[@chelsealepore1529]

This is amazing!!!! Such a chic transformation! Love the pendant light idea :)

[@my_mello-ue4qt]

I was thinking of making over my balcony! This would be a great inspo. Thanks!

[@viviansagginario7579]

FABULOUS!! YOU Totally nailed it!!

[@ranaa7590]

Magical ❤ i loved everything especially the flowers wall