This rooftop retreat is perched atop a residential building overlooking Lincoln Park. The penthouse home below is combination of two condominium units, allowing for a 3,400 sf roof space that covers the footprint of the building. Program requirements included a full kitchen, dining area, lounge seating, sun deck, outdoor shower, and sport court.
The expansive space creates a feeling of a rooftop yard. Terraced steps connect multiple levels of decking composed of hardwood and large-format porcelain tiles. Built-in planters contain ornamental grasses, allium, mint, and wild oregano. The decking is set back from the parapet wall, overlooking a green roof that creates a border of flowering sedum around the property.
A “forest” of birch trees is located adjacent to a neighboring building for privacy, and a green wall of willows creates a lush backdrop for the sundeck. The dining deck appears to float in a lake of green sedum, and the lounge is oriented for sunset views and has a fire table.
A playful and unique element is an over-size hammock bed integrated into the decking, suspended above the green roof, creating a relaxing space for reading or a summer nap.
The sundeck rests atop the elevator shaft, providing views of Lake Michigan and protecting the built-in lounge seating below, and the kitchen is shaded by a steel and wood pergola.
Sustainable elements include drought-tolerant plantings, a rain-water absorbing green roof by LiveRoof, sustainably harvested FSC Garapa and Ipe decking, and energy-efficient LED lighting.