In the concrete jungle of New York City, residents itch for patches of green space. While some tenants live near beautiful parks or the water, other NYC residents are left surrounded by skyscrapers and city noise. There is no better amenity for these renters than a balcony or terrace, as they provide much-needed outdoor space in a city crawling with people. Though the average renter may not know the difference between balconies and terraces, each amenity has unique advantages and disadvantages. Telling the difference between balconies and terraces can be difficult, as some realtors use the terms interchangeably. Yet balconies and terraces have some distinct key features that can make or break apartment living. Though they are both outdoor spaces, they differ in size, construction, and privacy.
What is a Balcony?
The New York Government website defines a balcony as “an exterior floor projecting from and supported by a structure without additional independent supports. Balconies are constructed as exterior open-weather common area elements. Balcony and terrace enclosures have been installed regularly in residential buildings and include open screen style enclosures or weather-resistant enclosures, such as windows or solid walls.” Balconies in New York City are often enclosed by a railing, short wall, or fence and are characterized by their private and enclosed space. Many New Yorkers furnish their balconies with cozy living chairs, garden planters, or use them to store their bicycle. Regardless of its function, a balcony can be a great addition to any apartment.
While some balconies are large enough for a table and chairs, others are small and included in the apartment to maximize views. These smaller balconies, called “Juliet balconies” (named after the popular Shakespeare play), aren’t even big enough to stand on. Juliet balconies are often framed by a large window or door and bring sunlight and fresh air into the space. Most balconies are small in square footage, making it the perfect spot for a morning cup of coffee or a romantic dinner for two. A balcony may not be the best fit for a renter looking to host a blow-out party due to its smaller size.
What is a Terrace?
A “terrace” is a broad term for outdoor space and includes the entire umbrella of roof decks, courtyards, and open spaces above other apartments. The word is derived from the Latin word for terra, meaning “Earth.” Terraces in many cities are often at ground level (and some ground level terraces in NYC), but many city apartments feature rooftop terraces – green space on the top of a building, often furnished with grills, seating, and gardening space.
Terraces can be private but don’t have to be. Some units will have shared outdoor space or have a shared roof terrace between the entire building. Some buildings, though, will have private rooftop terraces that are only accessible from one unit, and that unit is often the penthouse and comes with a premium rent. Floor plans can always help you determine the level of accessibility of the terrace and whether it is a private space. Most often, on the listing, it will say whether or not the terrace is shared between multiple units.
Balconies vs. Terraces
Though both balconies and terraces add value to an apartment, they each have specific attributes that make them more or less desirable for renters. In her article for the New York Times, Sarah Kershaw writes, “a terrace, which is open to the sky and occupies a building’s setback, [is] worth more than a balcony, which is typically smaller and projects outward from the facade.” In a city where towering buildings can limit blue sky views, having a terrace without a roof overhead can be a valuable commodity. Terraces frequently get the best, unobstructed views. Conversely, inclemate weather can render a terrace unusable, whereas a balcony, often covered by a roof or other unit, can be a relaxing spot to watch the rain or snow from the comfort of a blanket and chair.
In terms of furnishing, balconies can also be a challenge. Many rooftop terraces that are shared spaces come previously furnished, whereas a private balcony demands decoration from the residents. Moving into a space with a balcony may require tenants to purchase an outdoor set of table and chairs, garden planters, or other furnishings to make the space most useful.
Terraces can often have dining/cooking spaces, community gardens, or even a pool. In shared terrace spaces, there is also the opportunity to build community within the residential building. Some buildings offer events such as cookouts, concerts, or rooftop play readings. Residents can enjoy communing with neighbors or friends after a long day or host friends and family for a party.
Where terraces are shared, balconies are often private spaces. For New Yorkers that spend their entire days in public (either at the office, on the train, or out to eat), having a private balcony to unwind on can be a massive benefit. The space can also function as storage, even for residents who don’t want to spend hours sitting on their balconies. Many New Yorkers use their balcony to store bicycles, furniture, or out-of-season items.
Downsides of a Balcony or Terrace
For all of the privacy, fresh air, and views of the city, balconies and terraces can also have some downsides. Upkeep (especially in the winter), safety, and noise are all things to consider before renting an apartment with a balcony or terrace.
Upkeep
Unlike sunny Los Angeles, New York gets a well-rounded four seasons. Terraces and balconies can be very useful in the warmer months but come wintertime, you may need to invest in outdoor space heaters or opt to not use the outdoor space at all. In many older buildings, having a private balcony or terrace may demand extra winterization protocols to prevent the snow and cold from entering the apartment.
Safety
Terraces and balconies can also create safety issues for small children or pets. In Kershaw’s article, she references a senior vice president who has a terrace in her apartment on the Upper West Side but “has not used it in 30 years ever since her infant twins were out there in a playpen and dropped a toy onto the street. She was terrified that they could fall or that someone could get hurt from something they dropped.” Parents of small children aren’t the only ones worrying – pet owners also view terraces and balconies as a liability. Though dogs and cats are both prone to falling from heights, cats are more susceptible to injury or death from balconies and terraces. Falling from heights is one of the most common causes of death in cats in urban areas. Experts have even coined a name for the problem – “High Rise Syndrome.” The Schwarzman Animal Medical Center writes on its website, “High rise syndrome refers to the common set of injuries that cats may sustain when they fall from high places.” The medical center also notes that cats living in apartments with balconies or terraces are the most at risk. Many pet owners who have balconies or terraces elect to create “catios” for their furry friends or take extra measures to “pet-proof” their balcony to ensure their cat or dog’s safety.
Noise
Especially for balconies and terraces that face busy streets, noise can also be a problem. New York is notorious for always being under construction, and the noise of jackhammers and drills can seep into an otherwise quiet morning. Many residential buildings are above bars, restaurants, or stores, and late-night patrons or loud music can radiate into the space. In buildings with many balconies, tenants who make noise may also be above or below your unit, and the sound can travel far easier through your balcony doors.
NYC Listings with Balconies and Terraces
Apartments from a variety of price points and locations feature balconies and terraces. Check out some of these current listings that feature these precious amenities.
- This unit, located on West 79th street, has both a balcony and a rooftop terrace. The balcony is a private outdoor space, whereas the rooftop terrace is a shared amenity between building residents. This balcony is large enough to hold seating for guests or garden planters.
- At 15 Central Park West, residents enjoy a Juliet balcony off the formal living room. While the Juliet balcony is a great way to let in additional light and expand the space, it is not big enough to store furniture or plants. This unit on the edge of Central Park also features a shared rooftop terrace along with many other luxurious amenities.
- This 1 bedroom apartment at 168 East 100th Street features both a private balcony and a shared rooftop terrace. This apartment is a great example of a unit at a slightly lower price point while still benefiting from private and shared outdoor space.
- This studio apartment on East 56th Street is a great example of a private terrace – and one on the ground floor! While this terrace does not have sweeping views of the city, it is a great spot to host parties and is completely private to the unit.
- At 212 East 10th Street, these ground-floor residents benefit from a large, private terrace, whereas the upstairs neighbors are limited to smaller balconies. In the listing photos, you can see how much additional space is gained by having a private terrace rather than a fenced-in balcony.
Which is better?
Ultimately, the decision between a terrace and a balcony is personal – for a small family or couple, a private balcony might see more usage, but for a New York socialite who loves to host, a terrace would be more logical. Regardless, a terrace or balcony will increase the value of any apartment and provide great respite from the bustling New York City.
