How to Design Roof Terraces

The Unfolding Terrace

Well-designed rooftop terraces provide an escape that a ground-floor patio or deck can't reproduce. A city terrace affords views and a respite from noise and grime. If you're starting from scratch, a simple table, sun umbrella and chairs transform a plain roof into a terrace. Expand your living space and create a relaxing roof-terrace oasis with lush plants, comfortable lounging areas and a barbecue. Use design elements that fit your style and the way you'll use your roof terrace.

Things You'll Need

• Leveling compound
• Decking
• Tile
• Grout
• Lighting
• Heat
• Pest control
• Water feature
• Lattice
• 2x2-inch lumber
• Shade sail

Instructions

1. Check the rooftop for uneven spots. Repair major flaws with leveling compound or conceal them with plants, decking or furniture. Deck the entire roof or create a smaller deck area and naturalize the rest. Tile an area and seal it with waterproof grout if you don't want to add decking.

2. Install lighting. Put uplights in plants and focus spotlights on features you want to highlight. Provide sufficient lighting for the cooking area if you barbecue on the terrace at night.

3. Add patio heaters, a fire bowl or a chiminea for chilly nights. Provide for pest control with commercially available products or plant insect-repelling foliage such as lavender or marigolds.

4. Place a small water feature on the terrace. Remember that water is heavy so don't do anything large unless you're certain the roof will support it. A stone basin set on the roof with aquatic plants adds interest.

5. Screen the roof from neighbors with simple lattices. Attach 2x2-inch lumber that is 2-feet taller than the lattice to each side of the lattice. Stick the ends of the lumber into flower pots that are at least 1-foot deep, fill them with dirt and train climbing vines on the lattice.

6. Add color to the terrace by installing a sun sail or canvas canopy. Affix grommets to the corners of a piece of heavy fabric and attach screw eyes to the side of the building. Slide the grommets over the screw eyes.

Tips & Warnings

• Set potted plants around the edge of the roof if there are no railings.

• Check with a professional if you have concerns about the roof being able to support excess weight. If you add fish to the water feature, make sure there is shade for them.

References

• Free Garden Design Software
• Rooftop Plant Suggestions

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Photos of Modern Roof Terraces
• Environmentally Friendly Outdoor Flooring
• Patio Design Ideas