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If earlier a terrace was considered a luxury, now it is hard to imagine a country house without this extension. In the last century, more preference was given to the veranda. In fact, the functionality of both extensions is the same. Only the features of their designs differ. Many people think that a closed terrace is a veranda, and, conversely, an open veranda is a terrace. Now we will try to deal with the peculiarity of the device of both types of extensions, and also touch on their design.
How is a veranda different from a terrace?
Now let’s see how these two buildings differ from each other. Let’s start the review from the veranda. The extension is usually built on the same foundation with the house from the front door. Both rooms are equipped with a common roof. The construction of the veranda is planned simultaneously with the drafting of a residential building. If this was not done initially, the extension is erected later, completing the foundation to the house. The verandas are characterized by large windows. They are installed on all walls, but the number can be reduced if the extension is made insulated for winter use.
The terrace can be planned after the construction of the house. It is installed on its own separately erected base. Most often, terraces are planned as summer open areas, and support posts buried in the ground serve as the foundation. An integral part of the open building is the parapet. The fence usually has a height of about 1 m. The terrace, unlike the veranda, can be attached not only near the front door, but also around the house.
The veranda and terrace still have common features. Both extensions are open and closed. That is why they are so often confused in the definition. Although their functionality is almost the same. Open areas are used for summer recreation, and indoors are used all year round.
Varieties of terraces
By their design, terraces are not only open and closed, but also universal. Let’s look at each view separately for a better idea of the extension:
- In the presented photo of the open terrace, you can see a raised platform located around the house. It is partly covered with a canopy. Roofing material for two buildings is selected of the same type, but the roof of the extension itself is made as a separate structure adjacent to the house. The place of rest is protected by a parapet. Fencing gratings are most often made of wood or use forged elements.
- A closed-type terrace is installed on a more solid foundation. Often a columnar base is preferred. The extension is equipped with walls, windows and doors. That is, it turns out a full-fledged room. Now it is fashionable to use double-glazed windows in construction. Transparent walls and even a roof provide an overview of the surrounding area. Inside the room, heating and ventilation are equipped, which allows you to relax with the onset of cold weather.
- The most convenient to use are universal terraces. These transformers are assembled from collapsible double-glazed windows. Roof elements are equipped with a sliding mechanism. The extension is assembled according to the principle of the designer. In a short time, you can organize an open area or assemble a full-fledged room.
The owner equips any type of terrace to his liking, but the extension should not stand out, but be a smooth continuation of the residential building.
Which is better to choose the design of the extension
The choice of design depends on the imagination and financial capabilities of the owner. The terrace can be made in the form of a small area near the front door or a large porch. Near two-story houses, even two-story extensions are attached. It turns out two recreation areas at each floor of the building. A closed terrace is sometimes combined with a hall or kitchen.
It is necessary to determine the design of the terrace taking into account the climate of the region. For the middle lane, it is optimal to give preference to a closed extension. In extreme cases, the site must be equipped with a canopy. Even a small roof closes the place to rest from the rain. You still won’t have a rest in the open area with the onset of cold weather, but in winter, thanks to the canopy, you won’t have to clean the snow every day.
For the southern regions, it is preferable to choose open extensions to the maximum. In the heat, it is comfortable to relax on such a site, enjoying the fresh air and the morning sun. A canopy is most often installed to protect against rain or partial shading of the terrace. Along the perimeter, the resting place is planted with vines and other green vegetation.
Pool on the terrace
The original solution is a terrace with a swimming pool, fully or partially covered with a canopy. You need at least a small awning to hide from the sun after swimming. At the same time, an open area is provided for taking a tan. The dimensions of the pool depend on the size of the site. The platform is made of materials that are pleasant for the feet. Usually it is a wooden terrace board or a lawn is equipped.
On the site with a pool, wicker or plastic furniture must be installed: sunbeds, chairs and a table. If there are children in the house, it will not be superfluous to arrange a playground with a plastic sandbox.
On the platform for descending into the pool, a convenient ladder with railings is installed. The sides of the font are finished with a material that is beautiful and pleasant when touched by the body. It can be budget plastic or expensive natural stone, wood, etc.
On the video of the summer terrace:
Open Annex Design
An open veranda or terrace has a rest, therefore, the design of such a site should correspond to its intended purpose. When choosing furniture, it is better to give preference to folding items. The chairs and table can be easily folded up to hide from the rain. Wicker or plastic furniture looks beautiful. Items look like they are made of natural materials, but they are not afraid of exposure to precipitation. Stationary furniture is often practiced in open areas. The benches are laid out of brick, and the seats are wooden. The table can also be made of stone, and the countertop can be tiled.
Landscaping is inherent in open terraces and verandas. Lianas and shrubs are popular as ornamental plants. On a small platform, you can simply put flowerpots with flowers.
Closed annex design
A closed terrace or veranda should provide comfort, and be in harmony with the design of a residential building. At the same time, it is important to ensure a smooth transition of the merger of the room with nature. Upholstered furniture is installed inside. You can even put a sofa to relax. Looks good eco furniture made from natural materials. Curtains are a must. For landscaping, small flower beds made of stone with planted flowers are used or plastic flowerpots are placed.
There are a lot of options for arranging a place to stay. The main thing is that the veranda or terrace does not stand out as a separate spot among the architectural ensemble, but complements it.