If you have a flat roof then you can expand your home by turning your space into an outdoor living room or entertainment area. First step: get a roof access hatch Melbourne companies can install so you and guests can enter the entertainment area safely.
Next, you can transform your rooftop into a stylish terrace where you can relax and read a book or host outdoor parties. If you’re not sure what to do with your newfound living space then these eight stylish design ideas may inspire you. Read on to find out more!
1. Create an Outdoor Living Room
Ditch the hard plastic chairs and vinyl mats and replace them with plush couches and soft rugs. Treat your terrace like an outdoor living room by adding comfort items to your space. Even create an accent wall or install a TV.
Make sure you have conveniently placed tables so you can set down your drinking cups and glasses. Your outdoor living room should be streamlined so don’t add unnecessary decorations because it can clutter your space.
2. Grow Green Screens for Privacy
Being on your rooftop means you’ll be higher off the ground and neighbours may be able to see you. You don’t want to add walls to your terrace because it can affect the aesthetics of your space. Instead, keep it natural by growing green screens around your terrace.
Green screens are planters, shrubs and vines combined with short fencing to create a secluded garden retreat. For a more sophisticated style, you can add wooden lattice fencing that can support a variety of flowers such as bougainvillea or jasmine. The flowers will add a splash of colour to your green screen.
3. Make Room for Your Top Priorities
Your terrace design should be practical for what you want to use the space for. Ensure you have the space for your top priorities. For example, if you’re creating an entertainment area make space for a bar and maybe a fire pit.
You’ll also need an area to install sound equipment and make sure there is ample seating for your guests. Additionally, you can add a jacuzzi or a small swimming pool but this will depend on your roof’s structure.
4. Add Warm Lighting and Coverage
Create the perfect nighttime ambience by installing warm lighting around your terrace and adding the appropriate coverage. The coverage can help shield you from the elements during the day and it can be a support structure for your lighting.
Simple outdoor umbrellas can work well for coverage but you may want a bigger gazebo to protect your outdoor furniture from rain or UV rays. There are many stylish gazebos with curtains that will look stunning on your terrace and you can decorate it to fit the theme of your décor.
5. Include a Firepit to Keep Warm
With a rooftop terrace, you can enjoy your outdoor space all year round. If you want to keep warm outside during winter then you may want to install a fire pit. Place it in the centre of your terrace so everyone can benefit from it.
6. Add a Water Feature
The sound of running water can be relaxing and it releases negative ions which are proven to provide many health benefits. You’ll also need a water source for bees and other lifeforms to keep your plants and green screens healthy.
You can add a small water fountain or something big and elaborate. The size of your water feature will depend on how much space you have on your terrace.
7. Install Outdoor Blinds to Block Wind
If you have a pergola or a large gazebo, you may want to close the sides at times, especially when it’s windy. You’ll need to install outdoor blinds to block the wind or rain when you’re hosting parties. The outdoor blinds can also protect your furniture from dust and the elements.
Also read: Do I Need to Repair or Replace My Roof?
8. Create a Safe Access Point
To get onto your terrace you’ll need to create a safe access point for you and your guests. Install a roof access hatch that’s easy to open and close so you can get onto your terrace whenever you want to.
The hatch will also make it easier to bring materials and equipment onto your terrace for decorating or maintenance. When closed, the access hatch will be sealed tight so water doesn’t seep through the door. The door is easy to lift so you won’t struggle to open it.
Another benefit of a roof hatch is that it opens all the way and rests on the floor of the roof so there’s no risk of the door slamming closed.
Final Thoughts
If you have a flat roof then you are one of the more fortunate homeowners because now you can transform it into an outdoor retreat. Use the tips in this article to help you design the perfect rooftop terrace! And then share your pictures with us!