Your balcony is just an outdoor extension of your home. It’s where you get a break from work, watch the sunrise, or catch up on your favorite read. So, when you step away to visit your outdoor space, it’s important that it reflects your design style. Whether it’s a mini greenhouse overflowing with plants or a modern take on your interior, you want it to flow from your interior. If you’re looking for a fresh approach to balcony decor, use content creator Sandy Saintilus for your inspiration.

 

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With over 100k followers on TikTok and 46k on Instagram, Saintilus creates content around transforming those “ugly” spaces in her home while sharing renter-friendly hacks. Keeping her audience updated with special DIY projects, her latest “garden ceiling” balcony transformation went viral and turned heads, including ours. Saintilus breaks down the DIY journey and shares advice, cost, and items used to create her green oasis.

Inspiration from Everyday Life

While garden ceilings aren’t new to the home design world, Saintilus saw the idea everywhere. From weddings and restaurants to commercial buildings, the foliage display inspired her to incorporate it into her home. “Garden ceilings are actually nothing new,” she told Home & Texture. “I wanted to take those stunning examples and figure out a way to bring that look into my home.” She did just that. With tons of greenery, the outdoor space feels grounded and calming and is the perfect earthy atmosphere for a relaxing summer night.

Pay The Price for Something Nice

It’s safe to say a transformation like this can be costly. When asked about budget-friendliness, Saintilus gave us an honest and transparent answer: “The ceiling alone cost $786.53, and the whole balcony makeover cost $2056.72.” The price of the ceiling did not include lighting. Costs vary depending on the size of your balcony and what you decide to include, but you should still properly budget to prepare.

Nothing Worth Having Comes Easy

If you couldn’t tell, this whole transformation was no walk in the park. From covering the balcony floors to the ceiling and adding functional decor and wall pieces, it took a lot of time and arm strength. When asked if the project was harder than she thought, she said, “Absolutely.” Not to mention, the time expectation was slightly longer, too. “I thought it would take a day to do and it took about a week.” Tackling a project like this will take time and require attentiveness. If you’re hoping to achieve the look, check your schedule to plan a weekend or for your days off.

Must-Have Items to Complete the Look

There were several key and must-have items used to complete the look.  Artificial hanging plants, greenery wall roll, and more helped provide a forest-like environment. Tools like a drill, zip ties, and screw hooks for string lights are essential, too. You can purchase each item at the one-stop shop, known as Amazon, for an affordable price. When shopping, think about the size of your balcony and measurements. This will help determine how many of each item you’ll need and you won’t have to spend extra money.

Saintilus added chic finishing touches with an outdoor chair, an architecturally designed side table, and a wooden lamp.

What To Know About The Garden Ceiling Project

For someone who has successfully accomplished a jaw-dropping transformation, Saintilus got candid and shared some advice for others who are interested in taking on this extraordinary design. Since it was pricey, it’s important to “be realistic about what you can afford to do without straining yourself.” She also stated that what worked for her may not work for you, and everything doesn’t have to be the exact same.

You’ll also want to survey your environment before considering this idea. This means thinking about how things around you, whether neighbors or pets, will affect this design. “I have specific conditions that make something like this practical for me, but it’s likely not practical for everyone,” she said. If your upstairs neighbors have a pet, you’ll want to avoid them taking a leak and seeping through the balcony onto yours. Is it windy in your area or is your balcony exposed to weather conditions? For the best experience and enjoying the fruits of your labor, keep these questions in mind.