What is the difference between a balcony and a roof terrace?

Both roof terraces and balconies are ways of gaining access to outdoor areas of buildings and homes. Giving extra outdoor space, terraces and balconies are excellent at adding a touch of luxury to your home.

With similar functions, terraces and balconies are often confused with each other. To ease any confusion, we’ve created this guide to the differences between terraces and balconies.

What is a terrace?

Terraces are flat areas that either protrude from, or are found on, the rooftops of buildings.

Creating extra useable space, terraces have existed for centuries.

In the 1500s, terraces were commonly found in Venice as a place where laundry could be hung out to dry.

Today, they are used mostly as impressive social spaces that add luxury and elegance to any building.

Incredibly popular, terraces have been used to create bars, restaurants or memorable social spaces around the world.

One of the more famous roof terraces is at the Four Seasons Hotel, which offers incredible views of Hong Kong paired with afternoon tea during the day or DJ sets at night.

What is a balcony?

Balconies are elevated platforms that are attached to the side of a house or building. Balconies can even be fully- or partially-covered, giving you protection from the weather while you enjoy the outdoor space.

Unlike terraces, balconies tend to be small and can be accessed only through the room that they are attached to.

Because of their size, balconies are often used as an extension of the adjacent room, rather than used as a large social room.

Although smaller than terraces, balconies create an extra space in your home that can be used for a range of purposes, including a small gardens, seating, dining or social areas.

 

Conclusion

Overall, terraces are flat areas that can be on the side or roof of a building, while balconies are elevated platforms that are always attached to a room. One of the most obvious differences between balconies and terraces is their size.

Terraces can span large areas, while balconies tend to be small, more private spaces. Both balconies and terraces allow you to access the outside world and offer many different uses.

Whether you want to relax with or entertain family and friends, create a green space or simply have your own little hideaway, both terraces and balconies offer a world of opportunities.

Adding luxury and extra space, balconies and terraces might be the perfect addition for your home. Want to see what balconies and terraces can do for your home?

Take a look at our range of roof terraces today.