What Is A Terrace? Difference Between Terrace And Balcony
What Is A Terrace?
A terrace is an outdoor space, often situated near or on top of a building, that’s not attached to it. It’s an open, slightly elevated area that can be used for leisure activities like sitting, resting or strolling. Some terraces may be part of a larger grand structure or building and be accessed by a staircase, surrounded by a balustrade.
Terraces can be supported by a natural or man-made foundation or be platforms supported by columns but they’re always open to the sky and may or may not be paved. In comparison, a balcony is typically attached to a building and accessed through an interior room.
History Of Terrace?
Terracing, both architectural and agricultural, has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. Evidence of early architectural terracing has been found in the Middle East at sites such as Nahal Oren, Tel Yarmut, and Tel el-‘Umeiri. This practice was widespread globally and can also be found in the Pacific Ocean on the island of Babeldaob.
Greece also used terraces extensively in public and private architecture, with rooftop terraces present at Knossos as early as 1700 BCE. In the Roman Empire, terraces were commonly found in front of monumental structures such as temples, and this practice spread to Cambodia and Java.
Terraces are also frequently used in private residences, such as traditional Thai homes, where the dwelling is built around a central terrace, or chaan.
The theories behind the use and design of terraces vary greatly and are influenced by geography and history. Architects Henry and Theodore Hubbard believed that the terrace should have a simple design and command a view, while more recently, Catherine Dee has noted that the terrace is often used to connect the structure to the landscape and extend living space.
According to Sophia Psarra, the terrace is a popular form of architecture in the 21st century, alongside entrance halls, stairs, and corridors. Russell Sturgis has observed that terraces tend to be used in larger and more expensive gardens.
Roof Terraces
Terraces don’t always extend from a building. A flat roof space used for socializing is also called a terrace. Venice’s most common type of terrace is the rooftop altana, which dates back to 1500 CE and has remained mostly unchanged, featuring a wooden platform with gaps between floorboards for drying laundry. Nowadays, the altana is mainly used for social activities.
What Is The Difference Between Terrace And Balcony?
Balconies and terraces offer outdoor spaces for buildings and homes. These spaces add luxury to your home and provide an extra area for recreation or relaxation. The terms balcony and terrace are often used interchangeably, but they have different characteristics.
A terrace is a large, flat, elevated space that can either be attached to a building or freestanding. It can be entered from multiple points and is usually bigger than a balcony.
A balcony is a smaller platform that extends from a specific room in a building and is only accessible from that room. It is supported by columns or brackets and is always located on the second floor or higher, whereas a terrace can be at ground level.
