Loggia
A loggia is an open-sided, roofed or vaulted gallery, often on the upper level of a building but sometimes at ground level. A loggia can be either free-standing or can run along the front or side of a building. The outer wall is open to the elements and is usually supported by a series of columns or arches, similar to an arcade.
The difference between a portico and a loggia is that a portico is intended to function as part of the entrance to a building, whereas a loggia is only accessible from inside a building and serves more as an additional space, often used for leisure purposes.
The difference between a veranda and a loggia is that a veranda is a roofed structure attached to the outside of the main building, whereas the a loggia forms part of the main architectural structure.
Arcades tend to be used as passageways or covered walkways rather than leisure areas.
Loggias are most commonly associated with Italian architecture, and date back to the early Middle Ages, when open-arched loggias were common in the main square of public buildings, helping in the performance of ceremonies. In the 17th century they became increasingly popular in the residences of rich nobility, where they were often used as ‘outside lounge areas’.
A variation is the ‘double loggia’, in which two consecutive floor levels contain loggias.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.
Comments