This article clearly explains the main differences between balconies and terraces.
It highlights why understanding these differences is important for apartment residents looking for outdoor space.
The article provides a straightforward comparison of the two so you can decide which better suits your needs.
What’s the Difference Between a Balcony and a Terrace?
Terraces are larger outdoor spaces located on the ground or roof level, while balconies are smaller platforms attached to the upper floors of a building.
Terraces function as outdoor living areas, whereas balconies are more private spaces connected to specific rooms.
The main differences relate to size, location, accessibility, and intended use.
Key Points
– Terraces are larger than balconies and located at ground or roof level.
– Balconies are smaller, with attached platforms protruding from upper floors.
– Terraces can accommodate furniture and landscaping, but balconies have less room.
Our Opinion
In my opinion, the choice between a balcony and a terrace depends on your priorities.
Balconies are ideal for having a private outdoor space connected to a bedroom or living area.
Terraces are better for entertaining, outdoor dining, and enjoying a garden-like space.
Consider how you plan to use the outdoor area when choosing between these two options.
What is a Balcony?
A balcony is a platform that extends from the wall of a building and is surrounded by a balustrade, railing, or parapet. Balconies are typically accessed through a door or window from the building. Here are some key features of balconies:
- Smaller, more constricted space than a terrace
- Attached to the upper floors of a building
- Only accessible to residents of that floor
- Usually cantilevered out from the building, not ground-supported
- Offer more privacy than a terrace
- Common in apartments and hotels
- Allow apartment residents outdoor space off their room
Balconies are best suited for sitting out and enjoying some fresh air rather than extensive entertaining. Their smaller size and privacy make them popular with apartment dwellers.
What is a Terrace?
In contrast to a balcony, a terrace is an outdoor platform that sits at ground level. Terraces are typically larger spaces that adjoin a building rather than jutting out from an upper floor. Some key qualities of terraces include:
- Found at ground level, not cantilevered out
- Tend to be more spacious than balconies
- Offer less privacy but better views
- Often used for outdoor dining and entertaining
- May be open to all residents or the public
- Can have features like plants, furniture, lighting
- Allow outdoor extensions of restaurants, cafes, etc.
- Popular in warmer climates like the Mediterranean
So, while balconies provide private outdoor space for apartments, terraces offer roomier outdoor areas for dining, socialising, or even events. Their ground-level access and views make them prized features.
Key Differences in Design
When looking at the design, there are some clear distinctions between balconies and terraces. Balconies are typically smaller, more private spaces that jut out from upper floors and are surrounded by railings. Terraces sit directly on the ground, so they tend to be more spacious and open without railings.
You’ll also notice differences in access and views. Balconies are accessed through the building’s interior and offer views outward and down. Meanwhile, terraces connect directly to the outdoors with wide-open views of the surroundings.
Materials differ as well. Balconies may use lightweight materials like metal and glass since they cantilever out. Terraces often incorporate stone, tile, concrete or wood directly at ground level.
Finally, terraces blend with adjacent landscapes and structures. Balconies stand out as distinct architectural features protruding from a building. So in both form and function, balconies and terraces provide unique outdoor spaces.
Differences in Location
When considering location, balconies and terraces also have their distinctions. Balconies are elevated spaces attached to upper levels of buildings. This allows balconies to take advantage of views, sunlight, and privacy away from the ground level. Terraces directly adjoin the ground, so they act as outdoor extensions of the home integrated with gardens and landscaping.
The position affects the experience as well. Balconies feel removed from the bustle below with more limited access. Terraces have a stronger connection to the surroundings for entertaining or interacting with the environment.
So while balconies perch above, terraces sprawl out. The location shapes the aesthetic and functional differences between these outdoor spaces.
Pros and Cons of Balconies
When deciding between a balcony or terrace, consider the unique benefits and drawbacks.
Balconies offer:
– Privacy, as they are removed from the ground level
– Expansive views outward and down
– A place to get fresh air without going outside
– Less maintenance since they use lightweight materials
But balconies also come with:
– Restricted space and access
– Less ability to customize or landscape
– More exposure to wind and weather
Pros and Cons of Terraces
Terraces provide:
– Flexible wide open space
– The ability to fully decorate, landscape, and furnish
– Direct access to the outdoors and gardens
– Covered areas for shade and shelter
Yet terraces have some downsides like:
– Less privacy as they border outdoor areas
– Dirt, debris, and noise from being on the ground
– Upkeep for landscaping and outdoor furniture
– Lack of elevation and outward views
So, in choosing between the two, reflect on your priorities like space, views, privacy, customization, and maintenance. The pros and cons help inform whether a balcony or terrace better suits your needs.
FAQ
Is a terrace bigger than a balcony?
Yes, a terrace is generally larger and more open than a balcony. A terrace is an outdoor area that adjoins a building while a balcony is a platform that projects from the wall of a building and is surrounded by a railing or balustrade.
What is the difference between a balcony and a terrace in the UK?
In the UK, a balcony is typically a small outdoor space attached to an upper floor of a building. A terrace refers to a larger outdoor area, often at ground level or accessible from multiple rooms. Terraces in the UK may have patio furniture and function as an outdoor living space.
What constitutes a balcony?
A balcony is an outdoor platform that projects from the wall of a building and is surrounded by a railing, balustrade, or parapet. It is accessible from the building’s interior and may be enclosed or open. To be considered a balcony, the platform should be large enough for at least one person to stand on.
What is the difference between an open balcony and an open terrace?
An open balcony is a small outdoor platform attached to an upper floor of a building without a roof or awning above it. An open terrace is a larger outdoor area, often at ground level, that is uncovered and open to the elements. The main difference is size – a terrace is much larger than a balcony.
Conclusion
The key differences between a balcony and a terrace relate to size and accessibility. Balconies are smaller, attached platforms protruding from upper floors. Terraces are larger outdoor areas, often at ground level, that function as outdoor living spaces. Terraces provide more room for furniture, entertaining, and landscaping. Balconies are more private spaces connected to specific rooms. When deciding between a balcony and a terrace, consider your intended use of the space.
