Verandah vs. Balcony — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 9, 2024
Verandahs are ground-level covered platforms extending along the outside of a building, while balconies are elevated platforms projecting from a building's upper floors.
Difference Between Verandah and Balcony
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A verandah is typically a roofed, open-air gallery or porch that extends along one or more sides of a building, usually at ground level. On the other hand, a balcony is a platform projecting from the wall of a building, supported by columns or console brackets, and is often enclosed by a railing.
Verandahs serve as transitional spaces between the indoors and the outdoors, providing shelter and a place to enjoy the garden or surrounding views without leaving the house. Whereas balconies, being elevated, offer a panoramic view of the surrounding area, which can include urban cityscapes or rural landscapes, depending on the location.
Often, verandahs run the length of one or more sides of a building, making them more spacious and suitable for various activities like dining or lounging. In contrast, balconies are generally smaller and may not comfortably accommodate more than a couple of people at a time.
In terms of construction, verandahs are integral parts of a building’s ground structure, often supported by posts and having a roof that is an extension of the main roof. Balconies, however, are typically cantilevered and need special structural support to ensure safety.
Verandahs are common in colonial architecture, particularly in tropical climates where they provide necessary shade and ventilation. Balconies are prominent in urban architecture, offering an outdoor extension to high-rise apartments.
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Comparison Chart
Elevation
Ground level
Elevated from the ground
Size
Generally larger
Typically smaller
Structural Type
Extended part of the ground floor
Cantilevered or supported by brackets
View
Limited to surrounding grounds
Can offer extensive panoramic views
Usage
Social activities, relaxation
Limited space activities, views
Compare with Definitions
Verandah
A feature of traditional colonial architecture, particularly in tropical regions.
The colonial bungalow boasted a large verandah facing the sea.
Balcony
A small area outside an upper floor of a building, accessible through a door.
He stepped out onto the balcony to enjoy the crisp morning air.
Verandah
A roofed platform along the outside of a house, level with the ground floor.
The verandah at the back of the house was her favorite spot to read.
Balcony
A structure used to extend the living space of an apartment, especially in urban settings.
The couple had breakfast every morning on their small balcony.
Verandah
A long, open porch usually covered with a roof that extends along the outside of a building.
The family enjoyed their evening tea on the wide verandah.
Balcony
Often used for aesthetic purposes in architecture, enhancing the building’s appearance.
The ornate balconies added to the charm of the historic district.
Verandah
An open-air gallery, often enclosed by a railing, located at ground level around a building.
Their old farmhouse featured a wraparound verandah.
Balcony
A platform projecting from the wall of a building, surrounded by a railing or balustrade, above the ground floor.
Juliet stood on the balcony, calling out to Romeo.
Verandah
A transitional area between the indoor space and the garden, often used for leisure.
They decorated the verandah with potted plants and outdoor furniture.
Balcony
An elevated outdoor extension of an apartment or hotel room.
Their hotel room had a balcony with a stunning view of the ocean.
Verandah
A porch or balcony, usually roofed and often partly enclosed, extending along the outside of a building. Also called regionally gallery.
Balcony
A balcony (from Italian: balcone, "scaffold") is a platform projecting from the wall of a building, supported by columns or console brackets, and enclosed with a balustrade, usually above the ground floor.
Verandah
Alternative spelling of veranda
Balcony
A platform that projects from the wall of a building and is surrounded by a railing, balustrade, or parapet.
Verandah
A porch along the outside of a building (sometimes partly enclosed)
Balcony
A gallery that projects over the main floor in a theater or auditorium.
Balcony
(architectural element) An accessible structure extending from a building, especially outside a window.
Balcony
An accessible structure overlooking a stage or the like.
Balcony
A platform projecting from the wall of a building, usually resting on brackets or consoles, and inclosed by a parapet; as, a balcony in front of a window. Also, a projecting gallery in places of amusement; as, the balcony in a theater.
Balcony
A projecting gallery once common at the stern of large ships.
Balcony
An upper floor projecting from the rear over the main floor in an auditorium
Balcony
A platform projecting from the wall of a building and surrounded by a balustrade or railing or parapet
Common Curiosities
Is there a size limitation for balconies compared to verandahs?
Balconies are generally smaller than verandahs due to structural constraints and their location on higher building levels.
What is the primary functional difference between a verandah and a balcony?
A verandah is primarily used for leisure and social activities at ground level, while a balcony provides an elevated view and a small outdoor extension to higher floors.
Can a balcony and a verandah be present in the same building?
Yes, some buildings feature both a verandah at the ground level and balconies on upper floors.
What materials are typically used to build balconies?
Balconies are often made of concrete, steel, or wood, depending on the architectural design and structural requirements.
What type of activities is a verandah suitable for?
Verandahs are ideal for dining, lounging, and hosting gatherings in an open yet sheltered outdoor space.
Are verandahs more common in certain styles of architecture?
Yes, verandahs are prevalent in colonial, tropical, and ranch-style architecture.
What are the typical dimensions of a verandah?
Dimensions vary widely, but verandahs are typically spacious enough to accommodate furniture and group activities.
How do cultural influences impact the design of verandahs and balconies?
Cultural preferences influence the functionality, size, and decor of verandahs and balconies, reflecting local lifestyles and climatic conditions.
How does the view from a balcony compare to that from a verandah?
Balconies often offer broader and more panoramic views compared to verandahs, which are closer to ground level and may have obstructed views.
Can verandahs increase a home’s value?
Yes, verandahs can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a home, potentially increasing its market value.
How do balconies benefit apartment dwellers?
Balconies provide a private outdoor space in urban environments, often enhancing the living quality in compact apartments.
Do balconies require special maintenance?
Yes, balconies require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure structural integrity and safety.
What safety features are essential for balconies but not for verandahs?
Railings and robust structural supports are critical for balconies due to their height and exposure.
Is planning permission required to add a balcony to a building?
In many areas, adding a balcony to an existing building requires planning permission due to changes in the building’s structure and exterior.
What are the environmental considerations in building a verandah compared to a balcony?
Verandahs, being larger and more integrated with a building's architecture, might require more materials and space, whereas balconies need to ensure structural safety and weather resistance.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
