Imagine relaxing in a calm and cosy spot with a good book and freshly brewed coffee. What better than having a spot in your home to relax after a tiring day? When deciding outdoor relaxation spot, people often get confused between a patio and a balcony.
Both spaces differ from each other in terms of a variety of factors, and the choice depends on personal preferences. Let’s explore the contrasting features of both spaces to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.
- Patio: Plan Memorable Get-Togethers
- Balconies: A Private Spot to Relax and Enjoy Outdoor Views
- What Is the Ideal Choice: Patio or Balcony
- FAQs
Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Space
Whether it’s a patio or a balcony, outdoor spaces offer a relaxing spot in a home. They are a part of your home where you can host memorable gatherings or just sit with a friend and chat over coffee.
Some houses have both patios and balconies depending on the size. However, if you don’t know what space to choose for your house, continue reading!
Patio: Plan Memorable Get-Togethers
Let’s first have a look at what a patio is. A patio, in simple terms, means an outdoor space located on the ground floor outside an apartment or villa. People use this space for hosting gatherings and parties.
Most patios are either sheltered or covered with umbrellas. This feature protects you from the UV rays of the sun while you enjoy the surrounding green landscapes. Let’s quickly go through some features of patios that are worth knowing:
Choice of Material
Consider the weather conditions of your area, your budget, and the style of patio you are looking for when going for a patio. Here are the USP’s of some common types of patio materials:
- Concrete: Best for those looking for durability.
- Brick: Best for those looking for innovation.
- Stone: Best for those looking for a long lifespan.
- Wood: Best for those looking for style.
Usage
Patios are generally used as a relaxation spot where you can spend time with your friends and family. Whether you wish to arrange a kid party or a family dinner, patios are the space to be.
What’s Included in a Patio
- Usually, patios have ample green spaces that make them a perfect spot to inhale fresh air.
- If you want to utilise patios for BBQ gatherings, install relevant kitchen items.
- Moreover, to light up patios after sunset, you can install small bulbs and lights.
Balconies: A Private Spot to Relax and Enjoy Outdoor Views
Imagine looking out of your house, and all you see are the breathtaking views of the UAE. This is what balconies offer – a place to sit back and enjoy the scenic views. Having a balcony, you can grab a good book and relax on your favourite couch, away from the daily hustle and bustle.
Usually, a balcony is found on the upper floors, such as the 2nd or 3rd floor of a house. It is an extension of the floor and is attached to it as well. Let’s explore the top features of balconies:
Choice of Material
Common materials used for balconies are concrete, wood, and glass. Let’s go through the USPs of each material:
- Concrete: Best for those looking for durability.
- Glass: Best for those looking for style.
- Wood: Best for those looking for innovation.
- Steel: Best for those looking for a long life.
Usage
Balconies mostly contain spaces for 2-3 people, depending on the size. People use these spaces to spend private time with themselves or with people close to them. Drinking coffee alone, chatting with a close friend, or just looking at the beauty of nature is what balconies offer.
Safety Features
Since balconies are on higher floors, safety is a key concern for people, especially those with kids. To ensure safety, people cover the balconies with side railings or balustrades. Additionally, regular maintenance and checkups are necessary.
What’s Included in a Balcony
A balcony usually contains couches or small chairs with a table. When designing a small balcony, you can play with hanging plants, decorative lights, and beanbags.
What Is the Ideal Choice: Patio or Balcony
Let’s compare both the spaces on different factors and see what’s the ideal choice for you:
| Patio | Balcony |
| Location | |
| A patio is on the ground floor outside the house. | A balcony has safety concerns because of elevation, and much focus needs to be placed on adding safety features. |
| Privacy | |
| A patio is mostly for hosting parties and get-togethers. | A balcony offers a private spot to spend time alone or enjoy the views. |
| Safety | |
| A patio is safe since it is on the ground floor. | A balcony is a cosy space and is small in comparison. |
| Size | |
| A patio is large due to its usage. | A balcony is a cosy space and has a small size in comparison. |
| Material | |
| A patio mostly uses concrete or brick. | A balcony utilises materials such as concrete and glass. |
| Views | |
| A patio mostly offers views of green landscapes. | A balcony offers outdoor views |
FAQs
Dubai balcony rules have been established by the Emirate’s Municipality to maintain the overall aesthetics of the buildings. These rules prohibit residents from hanging wet clothes on a balcony and state that breaching rules may impose fines.
Furthermore, you can also check out the balcony rules in Abu Dhabi.
Home improvement begins with setting a realistic budget. These tips not only enhance the look of a house but contribute to a high value. Some key home improvement tips include DIY cleaning, maintenance and complete renovations.
Choose the perfect space for planning get-togethers, relaxing after a tiring day and spending time alone. Patio or a balcony, it’s time to elevate the look of your house with the addition of an outdoor space.
Furthermore, check out these home garden decor ideas, if you are updating your garden area. For more useful home management tips, keep reading Property Finder blogs.
