Difference between Terrace and Balcony

Terrace and balconies serve similar purposes within a house, an apartment, or any given property. They provide additional open space to the property. A balcony or a terrace are excellent methods to increase living space and connect the indoors and outside. Both add visual flair to a home's façade and maximize living space, letting residents enjoy the outdoors without leaving their homes.

The two structures are sometimes confused with one another. While they share some traits, each has its unique architectural characteristics and purpose and substantial variances in location, size, and construction.

Terraces and balconies are frequent elements in many different types of residences, but there are some famous examples. Rooftop terraces, such as the one at the top of New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art, are a perfect example of the structure; a vast open space affording stunning views and an oasis above a congested city. Juliet's balcony in Verona, maybe the most renowned of all patios, is so iconic that it spawned a named-after building, the Juliet balcony: a tiny balcony that, thanks to an intricate railing, offers a sense of openness and light as well as aesthetic beauty.

What is Terrace?

The word "terrace" comes from the Latin word "terra," which means "earth." "A terrace is an outdoor, raised, open, flat place in either a landscape or a building, or on a flat roof as a roof terrace." In many circumstances, "terrace" and "patio" are used interchangeably. A terrace and a patio are not the same, despite their similarities.

The difference is that a terrace is built at ground level but is elevated above the surrounding ground, such as at the brink of a hill or cliff. A patio is on the flat-level floor. However, a terrace describes the actual surroundings of the outside construction better.

What is Balcony?

The word balcony comes from the Latin word balcony, which translates to a big window. This is because all the balconies in the past could only be accessed through a window. A balcony is a raised outdoor platform, usually enclosed with a low railing. It is generally designed to increase living space past the outdoors.

A balcony is a platform that projects from a building's wall, is supported by columns or console brackets, and is usually surrounded by a fence above the ground floor."

Most balconies, believe it or not, were reached through enormous windows, and I'm curious if this is where we get our expensive sliding glass doors. Small balconies are standard in apartments, hotels, and condos above the first story.

Similarities: Balcony and Terrace

Both of these systems are very similar in that they allow us to engage with others and relax when we need a break from our daily routine. When we want to hold a party or a simple get-together with friends and family, terraces and balconies are helpful.

For example, the house owners may throw a vast Diwali bash in which they can use the entire house; here, the terrace and balcony will both come in handy as the audience grows. The children could enjoy themselves on the terrace, while the parents and children could enjoy themselves and have a good time on the Balcony.

When it comes to balcony and terrace furniture, they can be interchanged as long as the proportions fit in the intended space.

Difference between Balcony and Terrace

A balcony is usually only accessible through the room, whereas a terrace can have many points of access. Most hotels feature balconies where visitors can leave their rooms and get some fresh air.

The following table highlights the major differences between a Balcony and a Terrace −

Difference	Balcony	Terrace
Definition	A Terrace is an open area attached to or separates from a building.	Balconies are slightly elevated platforms attached to a specific room in the house.
Location	Balconies usually have a building next to them or have to be attached to a side structure.	Terraces, on the other hand, can be freestanding structures above or on the ground.
Usage	They are mainly used for small gardening pots, leisure activities, connecting with loved ones, etc.	They can be used for many purposes, including those listed for balconies, terrace farming, etc.
Size	Balconies are just outdoor openings attached to a room and are comparatively small.	On the other hand, terraces are vast spaces, and house owners sometimes include Jacuzzis and other amenities on their terraces.
Accessibility	Balconies are primarily accessed through a door.	Terraces are accessed through a staircase or even a door.
Space	A private space.	Often a public space, mainly if located on top of a building.

Conclusion

Since balconies and terraces do precisely what they were supposed to do: extend and maximizing the area and connect often-small inner interiors with the openness of the outdoors, it's no surprise that they remain popular features in private houses and public structures. Both of these external constructions can be used for various purposes, such as entertaining guests or providing a space for a tiny potted garden in the heart of a busy city.