Rooftop decks are an incredible way to add style to your home and use up extra space. This deck can be connected sideways to your roof or placed directly on it, depending on the structure.
Besides the intriguing position, rooftop decks offer a variety of other perks, like incredible views and being a great entertaining space.
While exciting to plan, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the process, especially the design phase. Below you’ll discover a few rooftop deck suggestions you could consider for your living space.
8 Rooftop Deck Ideas
Create a Vegetable Garden
One interesting use for a rooftop deck is a vegetable garden. Planters, trellises, and even a small greenhouse can be installed around the layout. If you’d like to store soil, tools, and other gardening supplies on it, deck builders in Havre De Grace, MD can add extra storage space.
You can keep the garden running year round with seasonal plants, so there’s always something to see, enjoy, and use. For instance, in the winter, cold frames could be scattered around the deck where you keep crops like lettuce, peas, and radishes.
To encourage pollinators, you could even plant small trees around your deck. This won’t only create shade and privacy but will invite essential wildlife to stop by.
Remember that while operating a rooftop garden is surprisingly simple, you need to be aware of weather elements. Because you’re on a higher level, you’ll need to be more in tune with the wind. This not only could knock things over but can dry out your plants. The same goes with the sun, which can shine more intensely on a high garden. So you’ll want to ensure that you plan your garden and deck layout with these aspects in mind.
Make a Lighted Oasis
Lights can truly make a difference when it comes to your rooftop deck. They can create a stunning ambiance for both quiet evenings and lively parties.
You can place embedded lights on the deck, around outdoor furniture, or install lamps. If you’re looking for ways to stay eco-friendly (or just to save some money), consider installing solar lights. These will soak up the sun’s rays and later convert them into electric energy.
Incorporate a Fireplace
A fireplace is a fantastic way to add warmth to your rooftop deck and make it a sought-after place any time during the year.
You can choose from countless fireplace designs for your deck. These range from traditional wood burning to a sleek ethanol one. You can chat with your rooftop deck designer to see what options are ideal for your home based on your style preferences and structural needs.
Install a Pergola
A pergola can add dimension and texture to your rooftop deck. It’s also a useful way to protect yourself from various weather elements, like strong sunlight when sitting outside.
If you’d like a pergola but aren’t sure what to do with it, you could:
- Hang outdoor curtains from it to flow in the breeze
- Train plants to climb around the beams
- Wrap string lights around it
Add a Small Pool or Jacuzzi
Incorporating a small rooftop pool or jacuzzi can be fun to encourage spending time outdoors.
Keep in mind that depending on your home, this may or may not be safe to install, especially if your roof is angled or too small. This is why it’s crucial to talk things over with a professional who will inspect the structure to see what options are open.
In most cases, a fiberglass one will be recommended. This is because it’s lightweight and tends to be easier to install. It’s also transparent, creating a show-stopping ethereal glow.
Besides a fiberglass one, sometimes an above-ground metal selection might also be good, especially if you lack space.
Use Geometric Designs
Rather than having your deck planks installed linearly, consider having them positioned at different angles. This results in a distinctive pattern that can actually make your deck seem bigger. You can also build layers on the deck with contrasting designs to create a unique look.
Make a Kitchen Retreat
You can transform your deck into a culinary getaway if you love cooking. Depending on your taste, you could make an extensive grilling center, pizza oven, or mini bar. A refrigerator could even be added so you can keep ingredients near you at all times.
Grow a Small Yard
Did you know you could plant a grass patch on your rooftop deck? If your home doesn’t have a yard, this is a great way to get a taste of one. Just add a layer of lightweight topsoil to a designated area and cover it with grass seed. In a few weeks, you’ll find yourself with a lawn! Of course, if you prefer to not deal with the real thing, you could instead install artificial turf.
There’s so much you can do with a rooftop deck. If you’re not sure where to start, consider the ideas above. Hopefully, they’ll inspire you in your creative journey.