Hack A Luxurious Outdoor Look With IKEA Products On A Budget

Outdoor spaces can be beautiful extensions of the insides of our homes, offering ample opportunity to relax and enjoy nature — whatever that looks like. For many urban dwellers, the balcony is a space that is sometimes under-decorated and underused. While usually on the smaller side, there is no reason that outdoor balconies can't be as attractive and spacious as larger yards. Tiktokker @josiepaige_ recently unveiled her approach to designing a gorgeous and functional outdoor space to spend time using budget-friendly elements from IKEA. 

@josiepaige_ installs locking latticework tiles that provide more attractive flooring than the existing concrete. The tiles lock together easily, are rental-friendly, and allow water to drain on the balcony when it rains. In addition, she adds a strip of forever-green turf grass, long a favorite of both soccer stadiums and mini-put courses, for a pop of nature and the feel of an actual yard. The effect is a slightly retro look that covers up the ugly existing balcony surface and presents a far more polished look.

IKEA'S ALTAPPEN tiles come in sets of 9 for only $16, which makes using them even on larger balconies extremely cost-effective. Made of durable plastic, the tiles are both weather and UV-resistant. As @josiepaige_ demonstrates, they can be cut with regular scissors, making it easier to work in corners and smaller areas. IKEA offers its RUNNEN turf grass in square foot lockable tiles for $59, or you can purchase inexpensive rolled turf at many home and outdoor living retailers. Combine them for a beautiful combo of tile and grass.

IKEA offers many other outdoor easy-to-install tiles that can be used on balconies, like the slightly more luxe RUNNEN wood tiles ($40) or MÄLLSTEN tiles ($60) made of porcelain. All provide durability and a stylish look perfect for your outdoor space whatever its size. Use the tiles as a foundation for outdoor furniture, planter boxes, and decor that make outdoor living easy and breezy.