Roof garden ideas – transform your terrace into a mini horticultural haven

Originally published on Homes & Gardens

March 18, 2023, 1:15 PM

Roof garden ideas – transform your terrace into a mini horticultural haven

<p> If your rooftop garden is part of a larger roofdeck overhaul, consider building your planters along the outer edges of your roof. This will offer ample space for layering taller trees for privacy with smaller shrubs and annuals for color.  </p> <p> If you have dreams of a rooftop kitchen garden or a layered cottage garden, allow two or three feet of depth per planter to create mini garden beds.  </p>

<p> This rooftop balcony garden in Boston's historic South End neighborhood incorporates colors from the ivy covered brick rowhouses below, with shades of red, green, and white. A variety of planter heights create visual depth, while also helping to anchor living space. </p>

<p> Sometimes, designing a roof garden is just like designing a suburban backyard or ground level courtyard garden. Take privacy hedges, for example. On a city roofdeck, a row of arborvitaes screens the roof area from the eyes of neighbors, while also adding a sense of lushness to the urban landscape. </p> <p> One thing to note about arborvitaes, however, is that they'll need near-constant watering when they're first planted. For the first 10 days, they require small amounts of water every hour or two to keep the soil continually moist, so make sure your roof is properly equipped to handle the maintenance. </p>

<p> Turn a brick or concrete roof area into a verdant oasis by planting a climbing vine like ivy or a climbing hydrangea alongside walls. It'll take a few years to fill in, but once it does, your roof will take on a secret garden feel that's well worth the wait.  </p>

<p> A variety of small containers can be a great way to garden on the roof, especially for gardening beginners. For one, it allows you to experiment with what types of plants do well on your roof (and where) because you can move them around to various spots until you find a place where they'll thrive.  </p> <p> Plus, you'll be able to move your perennials indoors during the winter months, and take advantage of their beauty until the next roofdeck season.   </p>

<p> Wind is a common problem on roof gardens. Many plants can cope with it, but you might need some shelter if you want to enjoy the space all year round. </p> <p> Unless there is protection from surrounding buildings, solid windbreaks aren’t a good idea as they block out the view, plus the wind stress on fixings is high.  </p> <p> Instead, choose permeable trelliswork, hit-and-miss cedar battens arranged horizontally, or perforated sailcloth that filters the wind so only a subtle breeze is felt on the leeward (downwind) side.  </p> <p> Glass is commonly used as a balustrade and wind buffer on roof terraces as it provides uninterrupted views. Don’t site it across prevailing winds unless there are a few holes in it, otherwise turbulence will smack over the top and down on you with great force.  </p> <p> Most importantly, don’t put yourself at risk by teetering over high edges to fix screening – call in a specialist builder or a rope access company to tackle it for you.  </p>

<p> Taller, wind-tolerant shrubs are ideal for roof gardens as they offer some protection against strong wind and rain. Think of them as living garden privacy ideas.  </p> <p> Tough evergreens, such as <em>olearia</em>, <em>phormium</em>, <em>pittosporum</em> and spotted laurel in big tubs are perfect for the job. Bamboo is worth trying too, except on very windswept roof terraces as its large leaves sway too much in the wind, which means the roots will shift about and the plants won’t establish in their new pots. You’ll need protection from sunshine too.  </p> <p> Shade sails are excellent – again, wind-porous materials are the best choice as you don’t want a solid barrier, with the risk of the fabric tearing or flying away. A cheaper solution is to put up a parasol, but make sure it’s securely anchored, otherwise strong gusts might blow it away. </p>

<p> Weight is the most important practical consideration when planning roof garden ideas. </p> <p> With tiny balconies tacked onto the sides of flats or townhouses you won’t need to worry, as they will have been specifically designed to take the weight of a few pots, containers and a bistro dining set. Roof gardens and terraces, however, are a very different matter. </p> <p> Discovering the load-bearing capacity of a purpose-built roof garden is easy – you simply need to look at the title deeds.  </p> <p> When it comes to older properties, chances are the space was originally intended to be somewhere to hang out the washing, or access the roof. How much weight it can take is debatable, and it’s likely you won’t find the information on the title deeds. </p> <p> In order to be certain, consult a structural engineer who will calculate what you can – but more importantly what you can’t do – on an older-style roof garden.  </p> <p> If weight is an issue, there are obvious things you can do. Plastic planters, along with fibreglass imitations, weigh much less than concrete, stone or terracotta containers.  </p> <p> Avoid placing pots in the centre of a roof terrace and don’t have too many (fewer containers look better). Fixing pots to surrounding walls or placing them on cantilevered shelves will help as the walls will be taking the weight, not the roof.  </p> <p> Also, choose lightweight collapsible furniture instead of a huge, glass-topped table. </p>

<p> Safety is of course paramount in any roof garden ideas, so avoid hanging anything over the edge or placing pots on ledges, unless they’re firmly secured. Do check with your local authority though – some won’t allow you to do this.  </p> <p> Pergolas, trellis, wirework or shade sails should be fixed securely, with the fixings easily accessible so that they can be tightened regularly.  </p> <p> The balcony or terrace needs to be in good condition too – by law, the sides must measure at least 1100mm high, so you can’t fall over the edge. </p>

<p> Green roofs, often planted with lightweight <em>sedums</em>, can add a rustic, weathered look to a new-build or outbuilding, as well as offering a safe haven for bees, insects and other wildlife. </p> <p> First introduced in Berlin in the 1880s to protect bitumen roofs from fire in hot weather, living roofs are now a popular way to add another dimension of green space to a garden, particularly urban gardens and new-builds that aim to blend with the surrounding environment. </p> <p> According to Simon Walker at Walker Architects: 'A grass roof is an ideal way to integrate a building visually with the  surrounding landscape, creating a rich and vibrant tapestry of color to harmonize with the environment. They add charm, interest and natural appeal, especially to new-builds, and contrast beautifully with weathered wood cladding.’  </p> <p> Ask a structural engineer to design your green roof so that the load capacity is taken into consideration. Many existing roof structures, including garden buildings, have not been designed to bear a heavy load, so professional installation is a must. </p>

<p> The aesthetic of New York's The High Line reflects natural cycles of life and death, and evokes feelings of being in a wild space. According to Piet Oudolf, who designed the gardens, 'my biggest inspiration is nature. I do not want to copy it, but to recreate the emotion'. </p> <p> While he is mostly know for The High Line, Piet Oudolf has achieved a level of influence and cultural relevance rarely, if ever, attained by, in his own words, a modest plantsman. </p> <p> The High Line’s planting design is inspired by the self-seeded landscape that grew wild for 25 years after the trains stopped running. Wandering through these meadow-style gardens, you’ll find perennials, grasses, shrubs, and trees that were chosen for their hardiness, sustainability, and ever-changing textures and colors. </p>

<p> With a little planning, creativity and innovation, it is possible to transform an unused roof space into an area to relax, unwind and entertain. </p> <p> Borrow from this space's small garden decking ideas, where an intimate outdoor zone has been created using wood panels and soft furnishings for a cozy nook in which to relax.  </p> <p> The space is visually open, creating a light openness to the terrace that fosters an atmosphere of cool serenity. An outdoor rug and furniture create the boundaries of the garden, all while enhancing that warm, homely feel. </p>

Roof garden ideas – transform your terrace into a mini horticultural haven

When it comes to roof garden ideas, it’s important to get the right mix of materials and planting for creating a space with year-round interest.

Roof gardens, terraces and balconies provide a great opportunity to enjoy the surrounding views, and with the right small garden ideas you can extend the living space of your home, whatever the size.

When it comes to gardening, every roof garden has its issues. Strong winds and extreme exposure can desiccate even the toughest plants, while weight restrictions, safety regulations and getting materials to the top of the building all make vertiginous outdoor space among the most challenging sites.

But with those challenges comes major benefits; the incredible views and breathtaking vistas are just some of the advantages of rooftop and balcony gardens.

Here, you'll find our favorite roof garden ideas – plus tons of design advice and inspiration.

No matter what size your roof deck is, these garden ideas will help you create an outdoor oasis you'll be happy to retreat to.

BY JENNIFER EBERT

Fulham Beach / Aralia

Learn how to design a rooftop garden with these transformational roof garden ideas.

Robb Report
The Sleek Romotow Rotating Travel Trailer Is Finally Going Into Production
The caravan was announced over a decade ago.
6h ago
Homes & Gardens
9 whole house layout mistakes – avoid these common floor plan flaws
Is something sitting not quite right with your house layout? Experts share the top mistakes we make when designing our home
14h ago
Ideal Home
Small front garden ideas - 10 inspirational ways to make a great first impression
Add kerb appeal and create a welcome entrance to your home, whatever its size, with clever planting, DIY and garden buys
16h ago
Woman & Home
15 common kitchen design mistakes and expert advice on how to avoid them
"Designing a kitchen is the fusion of mathematics and creativity," notes Tom Howley, Design Director at Tom Howley Kitchens. With this in mind, our experts share 15 of the most common kitchen design mistakes to avoid when planning your dream space...
12h ago
Ideal Home
Enter the Period Living Home of the Year Award 2023
If you are proud of a renovation or decoration project you have completed, enter Period Living's Home of the Year Award 2023 and you could win a cash prize of £1,000
1d ago
Ideal Home
Why you should think twice before painting your home grey, according to interior designer Banjo Beale
'You can't control the weather, but you can control what colour your house is painted'
18h ago
SheKnows
Costco's Fan-Favorite Self-Watering Raised Bed Garden Is Back In Stock Just in Time for Spring
Something about the warm weather just makes me want to start my own garden. However, knowing how to garden properly isn’t easy and it takes time. Luckily, Costco is there to help with your outdoor needs. From their spa-like lavender trees to their pre-planted flower bulb pots, Costco pretty much has it all. But their latest […]
2d ago
GOBankingRates
Stop Buying These 17 Things and Make Them Yourself
With our busy lives, it often seems easier to buy the things we need rather than make them. But some of the things you regularly use or consume can be made from scratch relatively quickly and for a...
2d ago
Homes & Gardens
What is the best layout for a galley kitchen? 10 design rules to maximize a narrow space
Turn this long, narrow room into a dream space that is a joy to use
2d ago
The Spruce
The Perfect Sleep Essential for Your Zodiac Sign
Getting a great night's sleep is essential for everyone, regardless of your zodiac sign. Whether it's getting the right pillow, achieving the perfect light settings, or giving you peace of mind and quieting your racing thoughts, there are plenty of must-have sleep essentials that can help create a better night's sleep that fit with your needs. Of course, our zodiac signs can be helpful in narrowing down specific options that could give us a more fulfilling night's sleep.
1d ago
Architectural Digest
A Bel Air Home Once Inhabited by The Beatles is Available for $48,000 a Month
The six-bedroom structure hasn’t been on the market in over 50 years
1d ago
Real Simple
Score! These 10 Nifty Home Organizing Essentials Are Up to 50% Off—but Only If You’re a Prime Member
Start your spring cleaning with Amazon member deals starting at $12.
1d ago
Homes & Gardens
8 tricky perennials to avoid in a small backyard – plus what to plant instead
Due to their rapid growth rate, it can be wise to avoid these perennials in a small garden
17h ago
Homes & Gardens
How to clean blinds while hanging up – expert tips to make cleaning easier
Cleaning experts explain how to clean blinds while they are hanging up
1d ago
Homes & Gardens
'It can look spectacular' – interior designer Kit Kemp shows us 6 ways to ensure you don't overlook a nook
From seating to storage, mirrors and more, Kit Kemp takes us through a collection of creative design ideas for the smallest of spaces
1d ago
Real Homes
Scandinavian kitchens – ideas that combine function and character
Form follows function in Scandinavian kitchens. You can instantly recognize Scandinavian kitchens. Natural materials, clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic are all defining features of a Scandi-scheme.
9h ago
Homes & Gardens
Avatar's Zoe Saldana's 'invisible kitchen' finds the perfect balance between beauty and functionality
'Minimalism is back but in a new way': The Way of Water actress has mastered this modern kitchen trend – and it's got designers talking
9h ago
Ideal Home
Low maintenance garden ideas: 28 stylish ways to create an easy-care plot
As Sarah Squire, Chairman of Squire's Garden Centres says, 'We all lead busy lives, so it's no surprise that people sometimes feel that they don’t have enough time for gardening. These low maintenance garden ideas will help you to spend more time relaxing, rather than working, in your plot. This verdant space is full of intriguing yet low maintenance features. Modern materials blend harmoniously with wilder pockets of perennial planting, sporting the likes of easy-care hydrangeas, ferns, and ornamental grasses.
6h ago
Women's Health
This Cleaning Tool Is TikTok's Hidden Gem For Ridding Disgusting Amounts of Grime
The Bissell SteamShot cleaner is going viral on TikTok for its powerful steam cleaning capabilities that clear out grime from tile grout, stovetops, and more.
2d ago
Homes & Gardens
Apartment decor ideas – 11 ways to design for impact
Decorating an apartment needs to be done with more forethought than you would apply to a whole house. For one, apartment decor ideas need to include world-class storage that's incredibly stylish, since they are unlikely to be hidden away; color schemes might need to be space-enhancing and will need to work room-to-room as well as across the whole apartment; and, of course, you'll need to ensure that every room's purpose is carefully defined. From tricks with lighting to clever ways with storage and display, these apartment decor ideas will kickstart your remodel.
2d ago

Yahoo News

Roof garden ideas – transform your terrace into a mini horticultural haven

Roof garden ideas – transform your terrace into a mini horticultural haven

Recommended Stories

The Sleek Romotow Rotating Travel Trailer Is Finally Going Into Production

9 whole house layout mistakes – avoid these common floor plan flaws

Small front garden ideas - 10 inspirational ways to make a great first impression

15 common kitchen design mistakes and expert advice on how to avoid them

Enter the Period Living Home of the Year Award 2023

Why you should think twice before painting your home grey, according to interior designer Banjo Beale

Costco's Fan-Favorite Self-Watering Raised Bed Garden Is Back In Stock Just in Time for Spring

Stop Buying These 17 Things and Make Them Yourself

What is the best layout for a galley kitchen? 10 design rules to maximize a narrow space

The Perfect Sleep Essential for Your Zodiac Sign

A Bel Air Home Once Inhabited by The Beatles is Available for $48,000 a Month

Score! These 10 Nifty Home Organizing Essentials Are Up to 50% Off—but Only If You’re a Prime Member

8 tricky perennials to avoid in a small backyard – plus what to plant instead

How to clean blinds while hanging up – expert tips to make cleaning easier

'It can look spectacular' – interior designer Kit Kemp shows us 6 ways to ensure you don't overlook a nook

Scandinavian kitchens – ideas that combine function and character

Avatar's Zoe Saldana's 'invisible kitchen' finds the perfect balance between beauty and functionality

Low maintenance garden ideas: 28 stylish ways to create an easy-care plot

This Cleaning Tool Is TikTok's Hidden Gem For Ridding Disgusting Amounts of Grime

Apartment decor ideas – 11 ways to design for impact

Want to save money in the garden? These are the 12 things you need to try

7 Garden Trends That Will Be Huge This Year, According to Experts

Low maintenance garden ideas: 28 stylish ways to create an easy-care plot

Garden Edging Ideas That Add Definition To Any Outdoor Space

Everything you need to know about the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2023