Living in a high-rise offers stunning views, but it often comes with a significant challenge: wind. Your lightweight, modern outdoor furniture, perfect for an urban oasis, can easily become a airborne hazard. Securing it doesn't mean sacrificing style. Here is a practical guide to keeping your furniture grounded.
First, understand the importance of weight. The simplest solution is to add mass. Choose furniture with built-in weight, like concrete-topped tables or heavy planters. For existing lightweight pieces, use furniture weights. Sandbag anchors designed for patio sets can be discreetly placed on chair legs or under table bases.
Anchoring is a more permanent solution. For wire frame furniture, use plastic cable ties to secure it to sturdy balcony railings. For freestanding pieces, consider ground anchors screwed into the decking or specially designed furniture straps. Always check with your building management before drilling or making permanent modifications.
Strategic placement is your ally. Arrange your furniture in the lee of the building, where the structure itself provides a natural windbreak. Positioning larger items, like a solid sofa or a large planter, to act as a shield for more vulnerable pieces can drastically reduce wind impact.
Incorporating windbreaks can transform your space. Install a tempered glass balcony screen to preserve your view while blocking gusts. Alternatively, use decorative privacy screens, sturdy outdoor curtains, or even a well-placed trellis with dense climbing plants to disrupt airflow.
Finally, adopt a proactive habit. For extreme weather days, have a plan to quickly move smaller items indoors. Stacking chairs and storing cushions not only prevents them from blowing away but also prolongs their life. By combining these methods—weight, anchors, placement, and windbreaks—you can create a secure, stylish, and enjoyable outdoor retreat, even dozens of stories up.