{"id":16432,"date":"2022-10-26T15:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-10-26T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.renthop.com\/content-manager\/?p=16432"},"modified":"2023-07-22T11:36:26","modified_gmt":"2023-07-22T15:36:26","slug":"terrace-vs-balcony-comparison","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.renthop.com\/blog\/terrace-vs-balcony-comparison\/","title":{"rendered":"Terraces vs. Balconies Comparison"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n

In the concrete jungle of New York City<\/a>, residents itch for patches of green space. While some tenants live near beautiful parks or the water, other NYC residents face skyscrapers and noise. There is no better amenity than a balcony or terrace, as they provide much-needed outdoor space. Though the average renter may not know the difference between terraces vs. balconies, each amenity has unique advantages and disadvantages. Telling the difference between balconies and terraces can be difficult, as some realtors use the terms interchangeably. Yet balconies and terraces have some distinct key features that can make or break apartment living. Though they are both outdoor spaces, they differ in size, construction, and privacy.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

What is a Balcony?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The New York Government website<\/a> defines a balcony as \u201can exterior floor projecting from and supported by a structure without additional independent supports. Balconies are constructed as exterior open-weather common area elements. Balcony and terrace enclosures have been installed regularly in residential buildings and include open screen style enclosures or weather-resistant enclosures, such as windows or solid walls.\u201d Balconies in New York City are often enclosed by a railing, short wall, or fence and are characterized by their private and enclosed space. Many New Yorkers furnish their balconies with cozy living chairs, garden planters, or use them to store their bicycle. Regardless of its function, a balcony can be a great addition to any apartment.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

While some balconies are large enough for a table and chairs, others are small and included in the apartment to maximize views. These smaller balconies, called \u201cJuliet balconies<\/a>\u201d (named after the popular Shakespeare play), aren\u2019t even big enough to stand on. Juliet balconies are often framed by a large window or door and bring sunlight and fresh air into the space. Most balconies are small in square footage, making it the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee or a romantic dinner for two. A balcony may not be the best fit for a renter looking to host a blow-out party due to its smaller size.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

What is a Terrace?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

A \u201cterrace\u201d is a broad term for outdoor space and includes the entire umbrella of roof decks, courtyards, and open spaces above other apartments. The word is derived from the Latin word for terra, meaning \u201cEarth.\u201d Terraces in many cities are often at ground level (and some ground level terraces in NYC), but many city apartments feature rooftop terraces \u2013 green space on the top of a building, often furnished with grills, seating, and gardening space.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Terraces can be private but don\u2019t have to be. Some units will have shared outdoor space or have a shared roof terrace between the entire building. Some buildings, though, will have private rooftop terraces that are only accessible from one unit, and that unit is often the penthouse and comes with a premium rent. Floor plans can always help you determine the level of accessibility of the terrace and whether it is a private space. Most often, on the listing, it will say whether or not the terrace is shared between multiple units.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Balconies vs. Terraces<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Though both balconies and terraces add value to an apartment, they each have specific attributes that make them more or less desirable for renters. In her article for the New York Times<\/a>, Sarah Kershaw writes, \u201ca terrace, which is open to the sky and occupies a building\u2019s setback, [is] worth more than a balcony, which is typically smaller and projects outward from the facade.\u201d In a city where towering buildings can limit blue sky views, having a terrace without a roof overhead can be a valuable commodity. Terraces frequently get the best, unobstructed views. Conversely, inclemate weather can render a terrace unusable, whereas a balcony, often covered by a roof or other unit, can be a relaxing spot to watch the rain or snow from the comfort of a blanket and chair.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n

Decorating the Space<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

In terms of furnishing, balconies can also be a challenge. Many rooftop terraces that are shared spaces come previously furnished, whereas a private balcony demands decoration from the residents. Moving into a space with a balcony may require tenants to purchase an outdoor set of table and chairs, garden planters, or other furnishings to make the space most useful.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Terraces can often have dining\/cooking spaces, community gardens, or even a pool. In shared terrace spaces, there is also the opportunity to build community within the residential building. Some buildings offer events such as cookouts, concerts, or rooftop play readings. Residents can enjoy communing with neighbors or friends after a long day or host friends and family for a party.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where terraces are shared, balconies are often private spaces. For New Yorkers that spend their entire days in public (either at the office, on the train, or out to eat), having a private balcony to unwind on can be a massive benefit. The space can also function as storage, even for residents who don\u2019t want to spend hours sitting on their balconies. Many New Yorkers use their balcony to store bicycles, furniture, or out-of-season items.\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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