Learn the difference between a balcony, a terrace and a loggia

Flats with a balcony are far more popular among people looking for a property to buy. They offer the chance to create your own outdoor space, a substitute for a garden, or a place to relax after returning from work. Not everyone knows, however, that not all balconies are equal. There are several types of this part of a flat. Besides the balcony, there are also loggias and terraces. How do they differ, and which type of space should you choose? You will find the answer to this question in today's article.

Most people buying a flat look for a property with a balcony. It has undeniable advantages. It is a space that is not counted in the usable floor area of the flat, yet it offers many design options and serves additional functions. It comes into its own above all in the warmer months, when we can have breakfast outdoors, drink a coffee or read a book in the sunshine.

However, the part of a flat commonly called a balcony takes on varied forms. There are also properties for sale on the market with a terrace or a loggia. Do they differ from one another, and which version will best meet our expectations?

A flat with a balcony

A balcony is an uncovered part of a flat projecting beyond the structure of the building. It is protected by a balustrade. It is an excellent extension of the living room. You can set up a small garden or a relaxation corner here. A balcony is also useful for storing various items of equipment that can stand outdoors and that do not fit in the flat or the cellar.

What are the drawbacks of a balcony? Above all, its small area, which considerably limits the design options. If we want to create a truly special outdoor space, it is worth thinking about a flat with a terrace.

A flat with a terrace

A terrace differs from a balcony in that it is much larger. It is most often found in ground-floor flats, and recently more and more often on the top floors, where terraces are located on the roof of the block.

Because a terrace offers a lot of space, we can arrange it however we like. We can therefore successfully combine a green area with a relaxation space, and even with additional storage for equipment. In summer you can hold small social gatherings and family get-togethers on the terrace. A balcony, unfortunately, will not give us such possibilities.

The drawback of a terrace is the lack of protection from the weather. We therefore need to remember to protect the furniture and equipment on it during rainfall.

A flat with a loggia

A loggia, unlike a balcony or a terrace, has a roof and is enclosed by walls on both sides. It does not project beyond the structure of the building. There are two kinds of loggia: those separated from the flat by doors and windows, and fully enclosed versions. The former works very well as a balcony that, thanks to the roof, can be used even when it rains. The enclosed option, in turn, provides additional storage space or a space that can be arranged, for example, as a winter garden, where you can relax surrounded by plants all year round.

To sum up, the space of a flat that lies outside its usable floor area can take various forms. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. So before you decide to buy a flat, think about whether you need a balcony, a loggia, or perhaps a terrace. The article above will certainly make your decision easier.