Urban oasis

Even a diminutive balcony like this one can be an oasis when it's orchestrated for relaxation. At least, that's the philosophy of homeowner Nancy Boudreau who designed the outdoor space as a getaway for herself and husband Gary Boudreau. The terrace and adjacent apartment are located above Boudreau's retail clothing and home décor store, La Crème in a lively retail section of Niagara on the Lake. The prime location allows this busy couple, who also work together, to find an occasional quiet moment during hectic days or a spot to enjoy some local wine after-hours.

Begin with a vision

Faced with the challenge of big ambitions and relatively limited floor space (the balcony measures 8' x 12') Boudreau was determined to create an outdoor dining room and have room leftover for a small garden. "I drew inspiration from some of the classical gardens Gary and I have visited in Europe," says the talented businesswoman. Certainly, the small space was an issue, but on the positive side the balcony is situated away from the main street and faces west so the Boudreau's enjoy glorious afternoon sun and brilliant sunsets.

Colour Palette

The apartment's existing red brick façade played an important role in determining the outdoor colour scheme. Although Boudreau initially considered a predominately warm palette featuring the terracotta so prevalent in France and Italy, she eventually settled on cooler bisque tones, providing an arresting counterpoint to the large expanse of brick. Niagara on the Lake has an active Historical Society which governs all home renovations and colours must be approved by this influential body. Boudreau chose an official historic colour from Home Hardware called Secord. She and Gary love the colour so much they decided to use it liberally in their other two La Crème locations - St. Jacobs and Guelph.

At one side of the balcony a freestanding brick wall acts as a wind block and provides a well-suited surface on which to create a focal point. Boudreau was certain she wanted to incorporate a water feature in the balcony retreat and chose this classic version that hangs about 5' high. To emphasize the important feature she employs the principal of symmetry; flanking the fountain with identical widths of trellis and a pair of handsome urns.

Furniture

A cast iron dining table and chairs from Zehrs anchors the setting and is beautifully shaded by a large market umbrella stretched with khaki canvas. Water, mold, and sun resistant fabric is the best choice for upholstered pieces which remain out of doors. Manufacturers like Waverly and Sunbrella have a good variety of outdoor fabrics. Interior designers and decorators often use those fabrics which are found at trade only resources like Robert Allen Fine Fabrics and Brunschwig & Fils.

Container gardens

Container gardens are usually the balcony gardener's only option when it comes to terrace plantings. Whether you opt for cedar, teak, terracotta, tin, or concrete, urns or pots allow urban gardeners to incorporate green plantings and vivid flowers into the smallest spaces. Here, the white railing is open to a parking lot below, so Boudreau added terracotta planters and filled them with a variety of shrubs and gerbera daisies to serve as a distraction.

"Although we have a lot more room inside the apartment, this is where we gravitate at the end of the day," says Boudreau. "This is our own private oasis."