Take your terrace to new height with brilliant design ideas and chic accessories
NEAT SEATS
Built-in seating is ideal for the roof terrace as not only does it make the most of all available space, it’s low maintenance and sturdy, too. Soften hard lines with planting – choose fragrant herbs and slender grasses to add extra sensory dimensions.
LAYERED LEVELS
Decking is the easiest way of creating different levels, and even a step up helps to give the illusion of different zones, making a small space feel bigger. Add wood-framed, raised beds and a wall-mounted trellis to provide a smart and coherent base for lively, colourful planting. Get the look Urban Roof Gardens creates roof spaces like this from £5,776.
LIVING ROOM DELUXE
Style up your outside space in the same way as you would your interior, with well-chosen accessories. An oversized mirror bounces light, even on grey days, and robust, weatherproof furniture is a necessity if you intend to leave it outdoors all year.
WHITE ON
Create a calming retreat with pale decking-a super-chic alternative to darker timber that reflects rather than absorbs sunlight, making the most of every precious ray. Team with elegant white furniture and a parasol for a touch of Hamptons chic, wherever you live.
TAKE COVER
Shade and privacy are important in any outdoor space, but even more so on an overlooked terrace. Train potted climbers up an unobtrusive framework for a verdant screen. Create overhead cover with a shade sail, which is easy to put up and take down.
LIGHT UP
Good lighting is crucial if your outside space is going to be used in the evenings. Comb spike spots to uplight planting with LED; set beneath glass inserts to generate a soft, atmospheric light, then rope lights add a gentle glow. Create interest underfoot by breaking up an expanse of decking with panels of coloured glass chippings.
ZONED SPACES
The most basic architectural elements can be used to create separate areas in which to relax and unwind. It takes minimal effort to transform an imposing chimney stack into a quaint seating area – just add a simple bench, a slatted canopy and some easy-care plants to create your own urban oasis.
Now you’re inspired…
Sarah Bevin of Urban Roof Gardens has five tips for creating a rooftop haven.
1. Check whether you own your roof: many people think they do when they don’t.
2. It’s always worthwhile having a friendly chat with your neighbours about your roof terrace plans before you make a planning application.
3. Submit your planning application through professionals – you stand a far better chance of it being approved.
4. Always hire a structural engineer to check your roof before you attempt to add any additional weight to it.
5. Don’t underestimate the cost of creating access and reinforcing a flat roof for use as a garden – it can easily escalate to £30,000
Claudia Baillie, Living etc, June 2010