Dream Spaces: 10 Inspiring Rooftop Gardens
Take a break and imagine yourself kicking back in one of these lofty retreats
There’s nothing better than relaxing on a rooftop patio with friends, drinks, good music and never-ending views. Throw in a barbecue and it’s officially a perfect day or evening. Some of us are lucky enough to have a rooftop garden; the rest of us can always indulge in a bit of wishful thinking. Either way, settle back and enjoy these lovely outdoor perches.
Perfect holiday getaway. This sun-drenched Miami rooftop is probably what people dream of when they imagine winning the lottery. The view of crystal-clear waters makes it a dream space for those looking to party in style. The mostly white color palette helps keep the heat down, while orange accents add a modern touch.
Zen mood. Casual seating, natural wood and plenty of well-maintained trees and shrubs create a serene and harmonious retreat that’s made for cups of green tea, meditation and an afternoon nap in the shade.
Bohemian escape. This unpretentious terrace in Paris proves that a stylish outdoor space needn’t require loads of fancy lighting or perfectly manicured plants. A few shrubs, some low-maintenance seating options and a mustard yellow color palette make this terrace the epitome of laid-back chic.
Hottest bar in town. This is the kind of rooftop you visit with your date when you’re trying to impress. Strategic lighting and minimalist furniture create a smart mood and ensure that the real star is the breathtaking view.
Urban royalty. This London penthouse has a rooftop that seems too cool to be true —with private hot tub, breathtaking views of the city and just enough space for a select few. The candles are what give this space its magical glow, and we can all steal that idea, even if we don’t have the hot tub.
Five-star hotel look. This penthouse space also features stunning views of London, along with a sleek wraparound deck, for a vibe that oozes sophistication and glamour. Imagine popping open a bottle of Veuve Clicquot while leaning back in that bubble chair. Well, one can dream.
Country-chic hideaway. There’s something undeniably charming about this relaxed rooftop deck in an old English country home. The large windows open onto a patio with oversized cushions, a couple of flowers and not much else. It’s a perfect hideaway for escaping with a good book and a cup of tea. Or a nice bottle of wine — your call.
City oasis. With its mix of natural wood, hanging lanterns, embroidered rug and low seating, this rooftop channels a little bit of Morocco, creating an otherworldly oasis in the midst of a bustling city. Lanterns are hung from the pergola; you could also try hurricane lamps for a similar effect. Go for white lamps and lanterns for a more pared-down look, or patterned ones for a more eclectic mood.
Perfect party pad. The intended use of this rooftop space is clear. It’s not made for enjoying leisurely sips of wine while finally having a go at War and Peace. No, it’s designed for its owner to throw the best parties of the year, or at least the weekend. Amazing views, LED lighting and flat-screen TVs make this feel like the kind of place where Rihanna would hang out. My invite probably just got lost in the mail.
Fun-sized terrace. This rooftop garden in New York City shows that size isn’t everything. Well-chosen seating, a tiled floor and potted plants create a relaxed space perfect for enjoying a beer or two with a few friends while planning a night out.
Tell us: Do you have a rooftop garden or a garden with a view? Share your photos in the Comments.
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Tell us: Do you have a rooftop garden or a garden with a view? Share your photos in the Comments.
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