Incredible Rooftops

By: Rick Hess/Mae Case, DI

Magnificent views are a sought-after amenity for any space. Utilizing the rooftop of a building can take the breathtaking scenery to a whole new level by bringing you just a step closer to nature. It’s also a great way to have an outdoor experience when you’re in a densely populated area where yards are uncommon. Whether it’s a high-rise hotel located smack-dab in the middle of a bustling downtown city or a secluded residence hidden in a rainforest, converting the roof of a building to a livable area adds value not only to the space but to one’s personal experience as well.

Incredible Rooftops

Green Roof at the Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, Virginia

The museum’s beautiful Green House is absolutely beautiful and a rare find in Virginia.  The museum opened in 2009 with an education center where architects and designers can learn about green solutions and technology.  The informative museum is also open to the public and will encourage those who visit to think green on the next project they decide to tackle.

Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL

Home of one of the most famous baseball fields in the country you will find fans scattered not only in the stadium, but on their own personal rooftops.  In left field you will especially notice the integration of architecture and stadium only adding to the fan based experience.

Jungle House, Sao Paulo Brazil

Incredible rooftops aren’t found only on large commercial buildings. Studio MK27 designed a house with a rooftop pool and garden in the depths of the lush Brazilian rainforest. As their website states, “The introduction of this house to this landscape has the objective of optimizing the connection between architecture and nature,” which is achieved through ocean views, natural light, and the careful positioning of the house within the dense vegetation of the site.

The Rooftops of Napoli, Italy

Napoli, Italy is home to some of the most incredible rooftops in the world.  Most residences will enjoy spending their afternoons on gorgeous greenery overlooking the historic city.  Photographer Trey Ratcliff was able to capture these spectacular designs with his camera during a visit.

Colonnade Hotel, Boston, MA

Located at the Colonnade Hotel, Boston, you will find an incredible rooftop where guests can enjoy lounging along with spectacular views of the city.  The sunsets are a must see if you find time to stay at this Boston hotel.

High Line, New York City

In a particularly high-profile and innovative case of adaptive re-use, James Corner and his design studio Field Operations turned an abandoned elevated freight train track into a linear public park.

It’s clear why more commercial and residential spaces are embracing their often-overlooked roofs. Especially in urban areas already tight on space, rooftops can provide a great alternative to a front or back yard for outdoor entertainment and relaxation. Experiencing the vastness of your surroundings with an unforgettable rooftop is a priceless addition to any building.

SOURCES:

http://studiomk27.com.br/en/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/andreas_komodromos/43833596701

https://www.flickr.com/photos/colonnade/5909226153

https://thevlm.org/explore/exhibits/living-green/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/stuckincustoms/201533822

https://www.flickr.com/photos/wallyg/169954834

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