What is the difference between a balcony and a loggia?

Neither a balcony nor a loggia is heated. Both can be either glazed or open. So, what do they have in common? The main differences become clear below.

Balcony

The word 'balcony' comes from the Latin 'balcus' (beam). According to the definition in SNiP 31-01-2003, a balcony is a platform that extends from the wall of a multi-story building. The key feature in this definition is the platform.

In essence, any horizontal flat structure that projects beyond the building wall and is at floor level can be considered a balcony. It must have a floor (the platform itself), while other elements may be missing.

Today, balconies are often enclosed from wind, with walls built or full perimeter glazing installed. This transforms the area into a relaxation zone, a home office, or even a storage room.

Loggia

A loggia today is essentially a modified balcony. According to the same SNiP, a loggia is an enclosed space with walls (built into the floor level of the building or attached externally). There may be two walls (if it’s a corner loggia) or three (for a standard one). Like a balcony, it can be glazed or open.

In modern buildings, loggias are frequently connected to living spaces, as they are structurally linked. This increases usable living area. Loggias become living rooms, home offices, kitchen extensions, creative studios, or craft rooms.

However, rearranging and connecting a loggia to a room requires investment and local authority approval. Prior review of apartment plans is essential to determine feasibility. If successful, a loggia becomes an excellent solution for increasing living space.

Yet, the main challenge remains insulation. Since the buffer zone that helps retain heat in winter and block summer sun is removed, wall insulation alone won’t suffice. Double- or triple-glazed windows with multiple chambers are required.

Historical Balcony

Originally, balconies had only the floor platform. Once integrated into residential or public buildings, they were used for leisure and relaxation. The projecting slab was enclosed by a small metal railing, often ornate, carved, and intricate.

Such balconies can be seen in imperial buildings in St. Petersburg. The Catherine Palace in Pushkin features a balcony above the entrance, supported by columns and decorated with the empress’s coat of arms and initials.

In Pushkin (on all doors and windows of the second floor of cold baths), another type of balcony can be found — the classic French balcony. It cannot be exited, as it's too small and serves only as a decorative element. It consists of a door opening inward and a railing projecting a few centimeters from the wall. Occasionally, potted plants are placed here, mainly for aesthetic appeal rather than practical use.

Loggia and Its Essence

The word 'loggia' has Italian origin — 'loggia'. However, in Italy, it has a different meaning. Since the 12th century, a loggia was a place for city council meetings. Structurally, it is a roof supported on one or two sides by solid walls, with other walls replaced by columns, arcades, or parapets. Famous examples: Loggia dei Lanzi, Loggia Rucellai (both in Florence), Loggia del Consiglio (Verona), and the loggia in Brescia.

Today, these are cultural, architectural, and artistic landmarks open to all who wish to experience Italy’s historical heritage. For example, the Loggia del Consiglio in Florence is now a full museum of sculptures. An excellent solution — visitors can freely admire works of Italian Renaissance art under open skies.

Conclusions

Although balconies and loggias serve similar purposes, they differ structurally and in potential uses. Key differences:

• balcony — a projecting platform extending from the wall; loggia — a part of the living space, integrated with the room;
• balcony is open on three sides, loggia on one or two;
• loggia is typically smaller than a balcony;
• balcony cannot be combined with adjacent rooms, unlike a loggia.