If you’re considering adding a balcony or veranda to your home, it’s important to understand the differences between these two types of spaces.
While they may seem similar and both add a relaxing space to your home, there are some key distinctions that can make one or the other a better fit for your needs. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at both balconies and verandas and explore the benefits and disadvantages of each.
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What Is A Balcony?
A balcony is usually a platform, which projects from and surrounds the upper part of a building, connecting its several storeys, with spaces or low walls between them. It often has railings to stop people from falling off.
A balcony can provide a wonderful view, especially if it is located on a high floor, and can even be a place to relax and enjoy the fresh air. However, balconies can also be quite dangerous, as there is a risk of falling off if the railings are not high enough.
Where Did The Word Balcony Orginate?
The word “balcony” comes from the French word “balcone,” which means “a projecting window on the outside of a building.” The word “balcony” can also be used to describe a platform or an area that is elevated.
What Are The Benefits Of Having A Balcony?
- A balcony is often elevated on an upper floor, which can provide a better view than a veranda
- A balcony typically has more railing than a veranda, making it safer for people to use
- A balcony can allow more natural light inside your apartment
What Are The Disadvantages Of Having A Balcony?
- Being high off the ground, they can be dangerous, especially for young children or pets
- Strong winds can make them uncomfortable to use
Types And Styles Of Balconies
- Straight balcony: A straight balcony is a simple design that extends out from the side of the building. It is often used as a small seating area or to provide access to a unit.
- Angled balcony: An angled balcony is similar to a straight balcony, but it angles out from the building at a specific angle. This type of balcony can be used to create more space on the exterior of the building.
- Curved balcony: A curved balcony is designed to follow the contours of the building. This type of balcony can add visual interest to a structure and can be used for functional purposes (e.g. as an outdoor living space).
- Glass balcony: A glass balcony is a type of balcony that is enclosed by glass walls. This type of balcony can provide views of the surrounding area while still protecting occupants from the elements.
- Wraparound balcony: A wraparound balcony is a type of balcony that wraps around the exterior of a building. This type of balcony can provide expansive views and can be used for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
- Garden balconies: These balconies are typically enclosed by a railing or fence and have gardening areas to grow plants or flowers.
- Loggia balcony: Loggia balconies are open-air and have an arched roof for protection from the elements.
- Juliet balcony: These small, semi-enclosed balconies often feature a wrought iron railing and are used to provide views of the surrounding area. It is also known as a faux balcony.
- Balconette: These small, square balconies project out from the side of a building and offer limited space for seating or plants.
- Mezzanine: A mezzanine balcony is a type of outdoor balcony that does not have the same elevated height as other balconies. A mezzanine balcony for example may be on the upper level or two stories up from where it meets the ground. This type of balcony is also sometimes called an attic, loft, or penthouse.
- Cantilevered: A cantilevered balcony is a type of balcony that hangs off the side of a building. This type of balcony is often used in construction because it does not require any extra support from the building. Instead, the weight of the balcony is supported by the floor below it and/or the wall of the building.
What Is A Veranda?
A veranda is a type of balcony that is typically enclosed or partially enclosed by a roof and is usually situated on the ground floor, providing access via the back door. This provides some extra protection from the elements, making it a great place to relax or entertain guests year-round. Verandas are often found in warmer climates where they can provide some shade from the sun. They can also be quite decorative, featuring intricate details and design.
A veranda is also considered to be a porch, usually partly enclosed by latticework, that extends along the front or side of a house. It offers protection from the sun and rain and provides a transition space between indoors and outdoors, as well as an outdoor extension to the house.
Where Did The Word Veranda Originate?
It comes from the Portuguese word “veranda” which means porch or wide walk. The first example of a veranda is an 18th-century architectural term for a wide, low porch that encircles the outer wall of a house with eight columns. Verandas are prevalent in Caribbean vernacular architecture, but they can be found globally in hot climates.
A veranda is a roofed, open-air gallery or porch. A veranda can be partly enclosed by a railing and frequently extends across the front and sides of the structure. Although the form “verandah” is correct, many people in Commonwealth countries prefer the spelling “verandah”.
Features Of A Veranda
Some features of a veranda include:
- A roof for protection from the sun and rain
- Walls or screens for added privacy
- Doors or windows for easy access
What Are The Benefits Of Having A Veranda?
- They are typically more affordable to build
- A veranda is often ground level, which can provide easier access than a balcony
- A veranda typically has less railing than a balcony, making it more open and airy
- They are typically more spacious than balconies
- They can be used year-round, thanks to the protection from the elements
- Verandas can add value and curb appeal to your home
- They provide extra privacy and can be quite cozy
What Are The Disadvantages Of Having A Veranda?
- They typically provide less privacy than balconies
- They may not be as effective in blocking out noise as balconies
- They can be hot in the summertime if they are not properly shaded
Types Of Verandas
There are two types of verandas, screened-in and open.
Screened-in verandas are generally found in colder climates while open ones are more common in warmer areas.
- Screened-in verandas are a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about bugs, weather, or other elements. They can be used as an extension of your living space, or simply as a way to enjoy nature from the comfort of your home.
- Open verandas usually have a railing, but the rest of the space is open to the outdoors. They are perfect for enjoying fresh air and sunshine without feeling too exposed. You can also see what’s going on outside while you’re inside. And if it’s raining or cold, you don’t need to go out into it!
The Best Type Of Veranda For Hot Climates
Bull-nose verandas are the most popular type of porch in Australia.
They’re also known as “Aussie porches,” and they have a distinctive style that can be recognized by their raised front section with a triangular-shaped gable. The sides of the veranda slope outwards to create an overhang, which shades the front part of the house from direct sunlight. For this reason, bull-nose porches are often used as living areas or outdoor rooms.
Bull-nosed verandas were designed for use in hot climates and some people consider them more comfortable than other types of porches because there is less direct exposure to sunlight on your skin.
The Best Type Of Veranda For Cold Climates
In cold climates, a different type of veranda is often preferable. A sun porch, for example, is a type of veranda that is designed to let in sunlight and heat. Sun porches are often used in northern climates to help heat up the house during the winter. They typically have large windows and glass doors that allow the sun to shine in.
Another type of veranda that can be used in cold climates is the enclosed porch. Enclosed porches are similar to sun porches, but they have walls and a roof that encloses the space. This helps to keep the heat inside and can be a great way to add extra living space to your home.
What Is The Difference Between A Balcony And A Veranda?
The main difference between a balcony and a veranda is the level of the floor. A balcony is usually elevated off the ground, while a veranda is often at ground level.
Another difference between balconies and verandas is that balconies typically have a better view since they are elevated, while verandas often provide easier access to the ground level.
Is A Veranda And Balcony The Same Thing?
Balconies are usually smaller than verandas and may not provide as much usable space. Balconies may be open with only a railing to keep people from falling, or they may be enclosed with walls and doors. Verandas are typically larger and can be used for entertaining, dining, or relaxing. Verandas also tend to have more features, like fans, lighting, and outlets, which make them more comfortable to use.
Balconies and verandas both provide outdoor space with a different level of privacy. Most balconies are on the second or higher floor, while verandas may be placed at ground level.
How To Make The Most Of Your Veranda Or Balcony
With a few simple tricks, you can turn any small outdoor space into a great place for entertaining friends and family or just relaxing on your own.
- Plant some flowers! You’ll enjoy the time spent watering and caring for them, plus they will bring color to your garden. Plus, there are many plants that provide natural pest control by attracting bugs away from other plants so they won’t eat them! When considering what type of plant to grow in containers on the deck or patio – think about how much sun they need and whether they will tolerate windy conditions. Some examples of balcony-friendly plants include: impatiens, petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.
- If you have a bit more space to work with, you could also try adding a small tree or shrub. This can provide some much-needed shade on hot days, plus it will make your outdoor space feel more like an oasis. Just be sure to choose a plant that is appropriate for the amount of sunlight and space available.
Some other ideas for connecting with nature in your small outdoor space include:
- Hanging bird feeders or houses
- Putting out a butterfly feeder
- Starting a herb garden in pots
- Adding a water feature, like a small fountain or birdbath
By following these simple tips, you can easily turn any outdoor space – no matter how small – into a place that feels like an oasis. Just remember to choose plants and features that are appropriate for the amount of sunlight and space available, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your own little slice of nature.
Conclusion
So, which one is right for you? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you want a private outdoor space that provides a stunning view, then a balcony might be the better choice.
However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option that can be used on any level of your home, then a veranda might be a better fit. Whichever you choose, make sure to enjoy your new outdoor space!
