Made in 2010, this Shard-gaping, city-bred, minimalist-geared rooftop terrace purveys low-key, low-upkeep alfresco living for our on-the-hop clients. Laid symmetrically to wood decking flanked by sandstone paving, the two materials are detailed with LED lighting strips in between them.
Created for a young couple, we designed duo planters. The semi-cantilevered pairs nearly touch one another, with broad cavities which enlarge the small space and enable LED strip lights to emanate warmly. Low-planted to withstand strong winds on the 7th floor, the planters lead towards two focal point Birch trees at either terrace end. The Birches are planted in tapered square planters, lit and feature a circular top opening.
With Renzo Piano’s Shard masterpiece commanding the main view, saturating the tiny terrace, the threesome of planter duos and their architectural frames & lighting connect the rooftop to its backdrop. Low troughs on the left feature evergreen Strawberry trees for privacy in front of a Cedar screen. On the right, Palm trees & culinary herbs frame the Canary Wharf panorama, enveloping the seating area.
Photos by Lucy Fitter