If you’ve never lived in a home with one, a terrace or garden can be life-changing. Access to an outdoor space that’s all yours can keep you from feeling cooped up and get you back in touch with nature. If you’re pondering what to do with the terrace of your new rental, you’ll be happy to learn there are so many different ways to make it feel private and cosy, as well as maximize its space if it’s on the smaller side.

Assessing Your Space

Gardens and terraces come in all shapes and sizes and, depending on where they’re located, receive different levels of sunlight. These are important factors to consider before filling the space. Installing a veranda from tuinmaximaal can provide shelter from the sun while maintaining an open-air feeling.

Consult with your landlord before making any drastic changes to your terrace, though––while you’re usually pretty free to dress it up as you please, they won’t want you doing anything that would devalue or damage the property.

Enhancing Privacy and Ambience

Having a nice big private garden is the dream of a lot of renters but if you find yourself in a shared environment, there are plenty of things you can do to create a space that feels like it’s all yours. A patio cover, for example, can provide a bit of privacy and protection from the elements. It can also make the space feel cosy. Add some string lights and a decorative screen and you can enjoy the great outdoors just as you would your living room.

Low-Maintenance Greenery and Gardening Tips

Shrubs and small trees can also add to the ambience and supply even more privacy. Surrounding yourself with greenery is one of the best parts about renting a home with a terrace or garden, so take advantage of the opportunity. Choose low-maintenance plants that require little watering but stand up to harsh elements.

If you’re a foodie, you can also use your terrace to grow your own herbs and vegetables. Basil, mint, and parsley are all easy to get started and they’ll transform your dishes when used fresh. Tomatoes are also a staple of home gardens because you don’t need a green thumb to help them thrive. Individual plants or even small gardens don’t require much space so even on your small terrace, you can dabble with homesteading to provide for yourself.

Small changes or big––there are plenty of ways to transform your newfound terrace to expand your rental’s usable space.