Loggia or conservatory: what's the difference?

Whether you're a homeowner or looking for the home of your dreams, you've heard the terms loggia and conservatory. Although these 2 spaces have some similarities, they are different in certain respects. One is specifically designed for upper floors. So, loggia or conservatory? Let's find out.

The loggia: much more than a balcony

The term ‘loggia’, of Italian origin, refers to a recessed part of a dwelling. It is located on an upper floor and is most often found in a flat, but it can also be built on the upper floor of a house or villa.

I'm interested in a loggia

Unlike a balcony, which is a platform with a balustrade projecting beyond the front and resting on nothing, a loggia is sheltered from the wind and weather. It is an integral part of the home. It is covered and has at least one closed front. It can be glazed like a conservatory, but rarely down to the ground; windows with frames are preferable.

Finally, it rests on the foundations of the house. Like its cousins the conservatory and the extension, the loggia can be converted into a real living space. A covered loggia can become a magnificent dining room, an unusual living room or even an office. Plants will flourish thanks to the natural light in this space. You can even create a pretty vegetable garden in wooden structures. Enjoy fresh vegetables from the garden! This room will allow you to enjoy the outdoors...indoors. This project is easily achievable if your home already has a covered balcony. It will be more complex, but not unattainable, if the balcony is not covered. In all cases, choosing the right glazing is essential.

The main differences between loggias and conservatories

Now that you know what a loggia looks like, let me remind you what a conservatory is. Then we'll look at the major differences between a loggia and a conservatory. A conservatory is a room that opens onto the outside world. Composed mainly of glass, it is very bright. It can be heated so that you can enjoy it all year round, and is made from insulating materials to prevent the greenhouse effect in summer. Like the loggia, it has become a real living space and can be designed to suit your needs.

Akena Véranda - Balcon terrasse volets roulants électriques

The loggia

It is designed for floors. It can be found in a flat, on the first floor of a house or at the top of external staircases. They are usually installed when the home is built. It is built into the structure of the home. It is protected from the wind and bad weather by a roof and one or more walls. It is rarely glazed all the way to the ground.

Akena Véranda - Pièce de vie - Lumière naturelle

The conservatory

It is a transitional room between your interior and your garden. It consists mainly of bay windows. It can be added at a later date. It is completely enclosed and sheltered from the elements. Loggia or conservatory, in both cases this additional room considerably increases the value of your property! They both have their advantages.

Here are just a few of them