Balcony vs. Mezzanine: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 3, 2023
A balcony is an outdoor extension of a building's upper floor; a mezzanine is an intermediate floor between main floors of a building.
Key Differences
A balcony, projecting from the wall of a building, offers an outdoor space to tenants, usually enclosed by a railing. A mezzanine, however, is an intermediate floor within a building, partially open to the double-height ceiling space below, often used for extra space or a specific purpose.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Balconies are accessible from an upper floor window or door, commonly found in apartments and theaters, providing an elevated view of the outside. Mezzanines are not considered full floors and are typically inside, overlooking the floor below, like in a theater or warehouse, adding additional space above while still being part of the lower floor.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
In terms of design, balconies are typically used for leisure, such as a space for patio furniture or plants. Mezzanines can serve various functions, such as additional seating or office space, and are often a design choice in commercial buildings for their aesthetic and practicality in utilizing vertical space.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
While balconies may offer private outdoor access in residential buildings, mezzanines could be a feature in public or commercial spaces, providing a stylish, semi-secluded area. Both can add value and functionality but serve different purposes in architecture and design.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
The architectural intent of a balcony is often to enhance the exterior facade of a building while providing users with a private open area. Mezzanines, on the other hand, are more about interior spatial efficiency, allowing for increased usability of high-ceilinged spaces without constructing a complete additional floor.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Location
Attached to the outside of a building.
Inside a building as an intermediate or partial floor.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Access
Usually through an exterior door or large window.
Accessed from the building's interior.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Purpose
Provides outdoor space and can offer external views.
Adds extra space within a large room or hall.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Structural Design
Does not extend across the full floor area.
Can extend across the full or partial area below.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
Usage
Common in residential areas and theaters.
Often found in commercial spaces and theaters.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
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Balcony and Mezzanine Definitions
Balcony
A tiered structure within a theater for additional audience seating.
The best acoustics were on the balcony of the concert hall.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Mezzanine
A semi-permanent floor system within a larger space, used for storage or work areas.
The warehouse utilized a mezzanine for excess inventory.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
Balcony
An elevated platform protruding from the outside wall of a building.
They enjoyed breakfast on the balcony overlooking the ocean.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Mezzanine
A balcony inside a building, such as a gallery that overlooks a larger room below.
From the mezzanine, the artwork in the gallery below was clearly visible.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
Balcony
A ledge or area above ground level for standing or walking, usually outside.
The hotel room had a small balcony with a street view.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
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Mezzanine
A low-ceilinged story between two main stories of a building.
The mezzanine housed the building's upscale boutiques.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Balcony
The external extension of an apartment's living space.
She decorated her apartment's balcony with string lights and plants.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Mezzanine
An intermediate floor between main floors of a building, especially in a theater.
The VIP guests were seated in the mezzanine during the show.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
Balcony
An area that allows for outdoor seating in public venues.
Spectators cheered from the balcony during the parade.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Mezzanine
The area used for additional seating or space, often in retail or public buildings.
The library's mezzanine featured cozy reading nooks.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Balcony
A platform that projects from the wall of a building and is surrounded by a railing, balustrade, or parapet.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 29, 2022
FAQs
Are mezzanines a common feature in homes?
They're more common in commercial buildings but can appear in homes with high ceilings.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Is it possible to enclose a balcony?
Yes, some balconies can be enclosed with glass or screens.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 03, 2023
Is a balcony always outdoors?
Yes, a balcony is traditionally an outdoor structure.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Do balconies increase property value?
Yes, balconies can add significant value by providing outdoor space.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Can a mezzanine be added to an existing building?
Yes, if the structure allows for it and building codes are met.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Do balconies require special maintenance?
Yes, they require regular maintenance to ensure safety and longevity.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Are all balconies made of concrete?
No, they can also be made of wood, metal, or composite materials.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Can a mezzanine be considered a full floor?
No, it's an intermediate level not counted as a full story.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 03, 2023
What materials are used to build mezzanines?
Mezzanines can be constructed from steel, wood, or concrete.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Are mezzanines suitable for heavy equipment?
This depends on their design and the materials used.
Janet White
Nov 03, 2023
Is planning permission required to build a balcony?
Usually, yes, due to structural and safety considerations.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Does a balcony count as square footage?
Generally not, as it's considered external space.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
Can a balcony have a roof?
Yes, some balconies have a roof for protection from weather.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
What safety features are common for mezzanines?
Railings, safety gates, and non-slip surfaces are essential.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Is a mezzanine always open to the floor below?
Typically yes, to some extent, for light and air flow.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
Can a balcony be a fire escape route?
In some designs, balconies serve as part of fire escape plans.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
What's the typical use of a mezzanine in a theater?
It provides additional seating and sometimes houses technical equipment.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
How does a mezzanine affect a building's aesthetics?
It can enhance the interior's visual appeal by creating a sense of openness.
Harlon Moss
Nov 03, 2023
Is there a size limit for a balcony?
Size can vary, but it's often dictated by building codes and space available.
Sara Rehman
Nov 03, 2023
How does lighting design work for mezzanines?
Lighting should be integrated to serve both aesthetic and practical needs without interfering with the space below.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 03, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
