When it comes to outdoor spaces terms like deck and porch, or balcony and terrace, are often used interchangeably. However, each of these terms refer to a specific area outside a home with its own unique characteristics and purposes. Understanding the differences between each area can help you make a more informed decision when planning, designing, or looking to buy your next home. Looking for a clear definition? Here’s a breakdown of what makes each of these outdoor spaces unique.
Decks
A deck is an elevated platform that attaches to the side or back of your home, providing an intermediary living space between indoors and outdoors. Decks are accessible from your yard either by being low to the ground or with a set of stairs and may or may not have a railing depending on the design and height. Raised decks may reach a second story and look like a balcony, but they’re usually larger spaces for entertaining and still have ground-level access via a staircase. Decks are commonly made from wood, composite (a blend of wood fibre sand plastic), or vinyl making them strong and sturdy. Wooden decking provides a classic look, while composite and vinyl options are low-maintenance and durable.
Make the Most of your Deck
Decks are best for versatile outdoor living. When large enough, a deck can a mix of seating options like outdoor sectionals or a dining table and chairs with an outdoor rug and weather-resistant cushions. A pergola, gazebo, or retractable awning is a great addition to add shade for sunny days.
Balcony
A balcony is a small outdoor platform, usually attached to an upper floor of a building and is always surrounded by a railing. They can be found in apartments, condos, or even single-family homes with upper levels, but almost never have ground access, excluding fire escapes and other emergency exits. They serve as an extension of your bedroom or living area for a little fresh-airspace, but they won’t integrate with your backyard.
Make the Most of your Balcony
Balconies tend to be smaller, offering just enough room for a couple of chairs or a small table, perfect for enjoying the view or relaxing outdoors. Maximize space with compact furniture like foldable chairs and a café table. Vertical gardens or hanging planters can add greenery without taking up valuable floor space.
Patio
A patio is ground-level outdoor space that usually sits adjacent to the home and is typically built with durable materials to withstand various weather conditions like stone, concrete, or bricks. They blend into the landscape, offering a seamless transition between your home’s indoor and outdoor living areas perfect for outdoor meals, lounging, or hosting small gatherings with family and friends.
Make the Most of your Patio
Start with durable furniture like weatherproof dining sets or cushioned lounge chairs. Shade structures like umbrellas, gazebos or pergolas can offer relief from the sun. To create a warm ambiance, add an outdoor fire pit, lanterns, or string lights.
Terrace
If you prefer more luxurious outdoor living spaces, terraces are your best bet. Terraces are typically found on rooftops or higher levels of buildings, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area with pristine landscaping and lush gardens to produce a beautiful, visually appealing outdoor oasis. They are often larger than balconies, providing more room for activities like gardening, lounging, or hosting events. Terraces are built with materials like concrete, tile, or stone to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal.
Make the Most of your Terrace
With their impeccable views, terraces are an ideal spot for hostingdinner parties or formal celebrations. To enhance a terrace, opt for a mix oflounge and dining furniture to create multiple functional zones. Consideroutdoor sofas and a coffee table for relaxed seating, alongside a dining area witha statement table. Large potted plants, trellises, or even small trees can addgreenery and privacy. Use outdoor rugs, cushions, and decorative lighting tocreate a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Porch
A porch is a covered area at the entrance of a house or apartment, often enclosed with screens or railings with a roof or portico above. It serves as a transitional space between the indoors and outdoors, offering shelter and seating. Porches can be built with concrete or stone or are often built with wood looking similar to a deck.
Make the Most of your Porch
Porches are areas designed for welcoming guests, relaxing, and socializing, with comfortable seating like rocking chairs or cushioned chairs. Soft lighting, such as wall sconces or string lights, can enhance the evening ambiance. For a functional touch, consider a small bistro table for morning coffee or casual gatherings. Adding potted plants or hanging flower baskets to complete the space.
Veranda
Often mistaken for a porch, a veranda is a larger, open-air structure that wraps around part or all of the home at ground level. Verandas are typically supported by columns and may have railings, but are not usually screened in. They provide an extended outdoor living space that is more expansive than a porch. Verandas are often called wraparound porches, though there’s one major exception - verandas always have roofs.
Make the Most of your Veranda
Since a veranda is expansive, it will benefit from multiple seating areas to entertain or relax while enjoying the surrounding views. Similar to a porch, try a bistro set or rocking chairs complimented with a porch swing. If you want some privacy mixed in with those views, try fencing or a trellis with climbing plants like ivy or roses. You can’t go wrong with potted plants or hanging baskets for an added touch.
Each outdoor space offers its own unique features and benefits, whether it's a cozy balcony for a private retreat, a spacious terrace for hosting gatherings, or a veranda for expansive outdoor living. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can better tailor your home search to suit your lifestyle, preferences, and the specific purposes you have in mind for your home’s exterior spaces.
