High Life: 10 Inspiring Ways to Transform Your Rooftop

City rooftop access? Don't settle for plastic chairs. These 10 rooftop spaces show what's possible—movie night, anyone?

1. Hammock Hangout

For ultimate relaxation, a hammock surrounded by potted plants and overflowing window boxes creates a calming green oasis. Not a hammock person? Laid-back lounge chairs work too.

2. Cook's Garden

Lush perimeter plantings expand a compact space visually. Grow fresh herbs and salad greens for the table. Choose the largest table that fits comfortably (essential for dinner parties) and add a shade umbrella. Pavers give the dining area a finished look.

3. City Terrace

Spacious banquettes on this London rooftop. Tall grasses and a potted grapevine provide privacy and shade; a sleek water feature masks street noise. A large coffee table holds drinks, snacks—or your feet.

4. Rooftop Theater

An outdoor screen turns a patio into a personal cinema. Invite friends, scatter cushions, start at dusk. Lanterns or string lights ensure safe movement if guests leave early.

5. French Breakfast

Parisian vibe: neatly trimmed hedge in a dark planter + elegant round table. Add large potted plants or dwarf citrus. Perfect for brunch, morning coffee, or evening wine.

6. Rooftop Bath

Not for everyone, but charming under the right conditions. A simple foot bath helps cleanup; a romantic old tub with twining roses fits the bill.

7. Water Garden

Bring tranquility with a fountain's burble. This NYC East Village roof has a stream flowing into a small pond with water plants. Bench seating under a pergola (future shade from vines).

8. Privacy from Above

Taller buildings overlooking your terrace? Custom ipe trellis stretching over the seating area adds privacy and shade. Budget option: sailcloth shades or a vine-covered pergola.

9. Hot Tub + Faux Hedge

This NYC space by Cortney and Robert Novogratz uses a tall fence covered in fake greenery for hot tub privacy. The opposite side stays open for views. Consider which views to preserve vs. hide.

Safety note: Consult a pro on building regulations before adding heavy features (hot tub, pergola). Not all roofs support the load.

10. Community Garden

Unused parking-garage roof became a productive community garden. Even a few raised beds can yield shared flowers, herbs, veggies. Collaborate with neighbors!

Tell us: Have usable roof space? Share a photo and how you use it in the comments.

More: Tour 7 Stunning New York Gardens | 9 Urban Gardening Tips From Hong Kong Rooftops