In this age of outdoor activities, balconies and terraces have become an oasis in our urban life. Many people enjoy these two spaces to enjoy the sun, read, grow flowers and plants, and even hold small gatherings. However, although balconies and terraces look similar, there are several key factors that distinguish a balcony from a terrace. The two structures differ in size, location, and structure.
Let's explore the history of the two, the construction structure, and the main differences between them.
What is a Balcony?
Balcony, as familiar as it may sound, has a long history. The word balcony comes from the Italian word "balcone", which means "large window". The earliest balconies can be traced back to the ancient Roman period, when they were used to increase the beauty of the building's exterior while providing a place to overlook the street.
History of Balcony:
The concept of balcony first appeared in ancient Roman architecture, used in royal palaces and aristocratic residences. Over time, the design and function of balconies evolved, especially in European architecture during the Renaissance. The balcony of this period was exquisitely designed, often decorated with carved iron railings and marble floors, and became a symbol of wealth and taste.
Balcony Construction Structure:
A balcony is usually a platform extending outward from the exterior wall of a building, consisting of a supporting structure (such as beams or columns) and railings. The floor of the balcony is usually flush with the interior floor, providing a seamless transition space. Modern balconies are mostly made of concrete, steel or glass, which is both sturdy and beautiful.
What is a Terrace?
Terrace is also an outdoor platform, but its design and use are different from balcony. The word terrace comes from the Latin "terraceus", which means "earthen" or "ground". The earliest terrace was a stepped platform made of piled soil, used for agricultural planting and landscaping.
History of Terrace:
The history of terraces can be traced back to the ancient Middle East and Mediterranean regions, when they were used for agricultural planting and to prevent soil erosion. In ancient Persia and Babylon, terraces were used to build beautiful hanging gardens. Over time, the function of terraces gradually expanded and became an important part of residential and public buildings for socializing, leisure and viewing the scenery.
Terrace Construction Structure:
Terrace is usually located on the top or side of the building, directly connected to the ground, forming an open outdoor space. The ground of the terrace is usually paved with bricks, tiles or wood, and the edges are surrounded by railings or walls. Terraces can be flat or stepped, depending on the building design and terrain.
Balcony Vs Terrace: How to distinguish?
A terrace is an open space that can be attached or detached to the building. A balcony is a small elevated platform fixed to a specific room in the house. A terrace can have multiple entrances, while a balcony is usually only accessible through the room. Most hotels have balconies, allowing guests to walk out of the room for fresh air.
What is the Difference Between a Balcony and a Terrace?
Size - Balconies are usually small, usually a few square meters, suitable for placing a few chairs, a small table or some flower pots. The balcony has limited space, but it can also become a comfortable leisure corner after careful decoration. Terraces are usually larger, reaching dozens or even hundreds of square meters. Terraces provide more space for activities and are suitable for placing large furniture, holding parties or outdoor activities.
Location - Balconies are usually located high up in a building, extending from the building's exterior walls and hanging in the air. They are usually connected to a room, such as a living room, bedroom or kitchen, and are a transitional space between indoors and outdoors. Terraces are located at the top or ground level of a building and are directly connected to the ground. They can serve as roof gardens, courtyards or open-air platforms and are independent outdoor spaces.
Architecture - Balconies have a relatively simple architectural structure consisting of support beams and railings. Because they are suspended in the air, balconies have limited load-bearing capacity and can usually only support light furniture and a small number of people. Terraces have a more complex architectural structure and usually require a solid foundation and support structure. Terraces can carry more weight and are suitable for placing large furniture and conducting a variety of activities.
Can You Guess Which is a Terrace and Which is a Balcony?
It is not difficult to determine whether an outdoor space is a balcony or a terrace. Just pay attention to the following key points: height and location, size and shape, and architectural features.
Height and location - Balconies are usually located high up and extending from the building's exterior walls. If you see a platform hanging in the air, it is likely a balcony. Terraces are usually located on the top or ground floor of a building and are directly connected to the ground.
Size and shape - Balconies are usually smaller and more regular in shape, mostly rectangular or square. Terraces are usually larger and can be in a variety of shapes to suit different architectural designs and terrain features.
Architectural features - Balconies usually have railings or fences and are simpler in structure. Terraces may have walls or more complex railing designs at the edges, and the floor paving materials are more diverse, such as masonry, tiles or wood.
About Balcony Furniture (What is Balcony Furniture?)
Balcony furniture is furniture designed specifically for balconies, usually in a small size, which is easy to arrange and move in a limited space. Balcony furniture should be both beautiful and practical, and be able to provide a comfortable use experience in a small space.
What are the Common Balcony Furniture?
● Small tables and chairs
● Flower stands and plants
● Outdoor carpets
Small tables and chairs - Small tables and chairs are the basic configuration of balcony furniture. Whether it is enjoying breakfast, afternoon tea, or reading and writing, a set of comfortable small tables and chairs can meet your needs. Folding tables and chairs are ideal for the balcony. They can be unfolded when in use and folded when not in use, saving space.
Flower racks and plants - The balcony is an ideal place to grow flowers and plants. Using multi-layer flower racks can plant more plants in the vertical space, adding a touch of green and vitality to the balcony. Choose some shade-tolerant and cold-resistant plants that can better adapt to the balcony environment.
Outdoor carpets - An outdoor carpet can add warmth and comfort to the balcony. Choose durable and waterproof carpets that can maintain their beauty and functionality in different weather conditions.
About Terrace Furniture (What is Terrace Furniture?)
Terrace furniture is usually larger in size and a wide variety of types, suitable for more spacious outdoor spaces. Terrace furniture should not only be beautiful and practical, but also be able to withstand various weather tests such as wind and sun.
What are the Common Terrace Furniture?
● Outdoor sofas and coffee tables
● Outdoor dining tables and chairs
● Outdoor parasols and pergolas
Outdoor sofas and coffee tables - Outdoor sofas and coffee tables are the core furniture of the terrace, providing a comfortable rest and social space. Choose waterproof and sun-resistant sofa cushions and backrests to keep you comfortable and beautiful in different weather conditions.
Outdoor dining table and chairs - If you like to dine on your terrace, an outdoor dining table and chairs set is essential. Choose durable, waterproof materials such as teak, stainless steel or aluminum alloy to extend the life of the furniture.
Outdoor umbrellas and pergolas - In order to enjoy a comfortable terrace life under the scorching sun, an outdoor umbrella or a pergola is very important. Umbrellas and pergolas not only provide shade, but also add beauty and privacy to the terrace.
Balcony Furniture Vs Terrace Furniture: What's the Difference?
Although balcony furniture and terrace furniture are both outdoor furniture, they have obvious differences in design, size and material selection.
Size - Balcony furniture is usually smaller and suitable for placement in limited spaces. Terrace furniture, on the other hand, is larger and suitable for more spacious outdoor spaces.
Material - Balcony furniture usually chooses lightweight and easy-to-move materials such as plastic, aluminum alloy or rattan. Terrace furniture, on the other hand, focuses more on durability and comfort, and often chooses strong and waterproof materials such as teak, stainless steel or aluminum alloy.
Design - The design of balcony furniture is usually simple, practical, and space-saving. Terrace furniture, on the other hand, focuses more on beauty and comfort, and the design is more diverse, which can meet different functional needs.
When choosing balcony furniture and terrace furniture, we should not only consider the size of the space, but also the functionality and beauty of the furniture. Through reasonable selection and matching, we can create an outdoor living space that is both comfortable and beautiful.
Conclusion on Balcony and Terrace
Although balcony and terrace look similar, they have significant differences in size, location and architectural structure. Whether it is balcony or terrace, it can become an oasis in our daily life through careful arrangement and decoration. I hope this article can provide you with some inspiration to make your balcony or terrace more beautiful and comfortable.