21 Rooftop Deck Ideas
Looking up has never been so rewarding. Rooftop decks transform unused space into personal paradises, offering fresh air and amazing views right at home. These sky-high retreats can work with any budget or style preference. From cozy reading nooks to full outdoor kitchens, the possibilities stretch as far as the horizon.
Your rooftop holds untapped potential just waiting to be discovered. Ready to make the most of your elevated space? We’ve gathered 21 inspiring rooftop deck ideas that combine practicality with serious wow-factor. Let’s explore how to turn that overlooked area into your favorite spot.
1. Cozy Lounge Area
Think of sinking into a plush sectional sofa, colorful throw pillows at your back, as string lights twinkle overhead and the city skyline glows at sunset—this is the ultimate rooftop lounge dream.
With a cozy outdoor rug underfoot, potted plants framing the space, and a low coffee table ready for snacks, it’s easy to forget you’re not at a luxury resort. The key? Layering comfort and style so you’ll want to stay out here all evening.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Bold Colors:
Don’t be shy—add bright pillows and throws for a playful vibe. Jewel tones or sunset-inspired colors pop against neutral sofas and make the whole space feel lively.
Choose Deep Seating:
Go for a weather-resistant sectional sofa with thick, comfy cushions; you’ll get that inviting, sink-right-in look, and your friends will never want to leave.
Layer with Rugs:
Lay down a cozy, outdoor-friendly rug to pull the seating area together and make the space feel more like a living room than a rooftop.
Add Ambient Lighting:
String lights, lanterns, or even flameless candles—these create a warm, magical glow, especially as the sun goes down.
Green It Up:
Use big potted plants or planters to frame the lounge; they soften hard edges and make the area feel lush and private, not to mention, they look great in photos.
2. Rooftop Garden
Modify your rooftop into a green sanctuary with a lush garden setup—think raised wooden planters overflowing with veggies, herbs, and colorful blooms. Create winding stone pathways between the beds, a cozy wooden bench tucked in the shade, and don’t forget a compact greenhouse for year-round growing.
Vertical walls covered in cascading vines not only maximize space, they add a living backdrop to your city view. Morning light and dew on the leaves make this spot feel like a hidden, peaceful oasis high above the street.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Natural Wood Tones
Go for raised beds and benches in untreated or lightly stained wood, it adds warmth and an organic vibe that feels welcoming.
Layer Greenery for Texture
Combine leafy vines, flowering plants, and textured herbs—vertical walls with trailing pothos or ivy instantly make the space lush.
Add Pops of Color
Choose bright blooms like marigolds or nasturtiums, plus painted plant pots or cushions for the bench to keep things lively.
Use Stone for Pathways
Lay down irregular stone pavers or gravel paths between your planters, it’s practical and adds a charming, rustic feel.
Cozy Up Your Seating Nook
Nestle a bench among the planters, add weatherproof pillows, and maybe a small side table for your morning coffee.
3. Outdoor Kitchen
If you want your rooftop to be the place everyone wants to hang out, a sleek outdoor kitchen is the move. This setup pulls together a stainless steel grill, stone countertops, and a built-in pizza oven right into a brick wall, which looks incredible. There’s a small fridge and a sink for easy drink refills and cleanup, plus a dining table close by for laid-back meals under the stars.
Bar seating keeps things social while you cook, and mood lighting under the counters makes the whole space feel inviting after dark. Add planters packed with fresh herbs for a pop of green and practical flavor boosts. Top it all off with city views and you’ve got a rooftop ready for any dinner party or chill night in.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Stone and Metal
Pair stone countertops with stainless steel appliances for a modern, textural contrast—it’s tough and looks high-end.
Add Ambient Lighting
Install LED strips or puck lights under counters, it makes the kitchen glow when the sun goes down.
Choose Sleek, Modular Furniture
Opt for weatherproof bar stools and a slim dining table, keep the lines clean to maximize space.
Bring in Greenery
Use low, rectangular planters filled with herbs right by the prep zone, you’ll always have fresh flavors at hand.
Stick to a Neutral Palette
Let the urban view and brick accents shine by using mostly gray, white, and natural stone shades with just a few pops of green.
4. Fire Pit Seating
Picture this: a circular fire pit flickering as dusk settles, surrounded by classic Adirondack chairs and city lights twinkling in the background. This rooftop setup nails the balance between inviting and elevated, thanks to comfy seating, cozy blankets, and a wooden pergola that adds both shade and style.
Stone flooring with inset lighting keeps the vibe warm and intimate, while small side tables make it easy to relax with a drink. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to linger long after the flames die down.
Tips to Get This Look
Choose Warm Neutrals
Stick with natural shades for furniture—think weathered wood, creamy whites, and soft grays; these keep the space feeling relaxed and let the fire pit shine.
Mix Textures
Drape chunky knit or faux fur blankets over chairs, the mix of stone, wood, and fabric creates layers that look as good as they feel.
Go All-In on Lighting
Inset floor lights and string lights under the pergola make everything glow, don’t overdo it—just enough to highlight the seating and fire pit.
Pick Classic Adirondacks
These chairs are wide, sturdy, and perfect for lounging, choose ones with a modern twist (like a sleek black or gray finish) to keep it fresh.
Add Handy Side Tables
Tiny tables between seats mean guests don’t have to juggle drinks or snacks, bonus: pick weather-resistant ones to keep things low-maintenance.
5. Pergola Shade
Nothing says “chic rooftop retreat” like a wooden pergola casting dappled shade over a comfy seating area. Here, the structure doubles as both a focal point and a functional feature—wisteria and climbing roses weave through the beams, while a retractable canvas cover lets you control sun exposure.
Underneath, plush outdoor furniture invites you to lounge, lanterns give off a warm evening glow, and potted citrus trees add a pop of green (and maybe even a hint of fragrance). An outdoor rug brings it all together, defining your hangout zone. It’s the perfect blend of cozy, lush, and just a little bit fancy.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Natural Textures
Mix wood, canvas, and woven materials—think a cedar pergola, rattan armchairs, and a flatweave rug. This combo makes the space feel rich but not busy.
Stick to Soft, Sunny Tones
Choose cushions and decor in creams, sage, or dusty pinks, bright colors can fight with the natural vibe.
Add Lush Plant Life
Go for potted citrus, trailing vines, and climbing roses; these plants love full sun and add height and fragrance.
Define with Lighting
Hang simple lanterns or string lights from the beams—bonus if you pick solar-powered ones for easy maintenance.
Cozy Up Your Seating
Opt for deep, cushioned sofas or chairs you’ll want to sink into, outdoor-rated fabric is key (and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later).
6. Dining Space
If you love the idea of hosting unforgettable dinners under the stars, a luxurious rooftop dining space is the ultimate flex. Imagine a big wooden table (enough to fit all your favorite people), surrounded by sleek modern chairs, with string lights twinkling overhead.
A few lush potted plants create a cozy border, and there’s a killer panoramic view of the city as your backdrop. Warm lighting sets the mood, a pergola offers just the right amount of shade, and there’s even a small outdoor kitchen for easy entertaining. It’s basically dinner party goals, you’ll never want to go back inside.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Big on Warm Wood
Choose a solid wood dining table (like teak or acacia) for that inviting, natural vibe. It anchors the space and instantly feels high-end.
Mix Modern with Cozy
Pair sleek, weather-resistant chairs with plush cushions—contrast hard edges with soft textures for serious comfort.
String Up the Ambience
Outdoor string lights or Edison bulbs overhead add instant warmth and a little magic, you can drape them across the pergola for extra sparkle.
Layer in Lush Greenery
Line the perimeter with potted plants of different heights; use big leafy ones for privacy and small herbs for color (and bonus flavor).
Keep Decor Elegant and Simple
Stick to neutral tones for place settings—think matte black plates, linen napkins, and gold flatware for a modern, understated look.
7. Hammock Zone
Turn your rooftop into a blissful escape with a hammock zone that feels straight out of a vacation postcard. All you need are a couple of sturdy wooden posts to suspend vibrant hammocks—go bold with stripes or tropical prints—and then pile on plush pillows and throws, the chunkier the better.
Place small side tables within arm’s reach for your drinks or snacks, and cluster a few potted palms for privacy (and that lush, resort vibe). String lights overhead add instant magic as the sun sets, while a compact fire pit keeps the party cozy long after dark. Sit back, sway gently, and enjoy the city skyline—no passport needed.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Bold With Color
Pick hammocks and pillows in lively hues—think coral, teal, or sunshine yellow; it instantly makes the space pop.
Layer Textures
Mix chunky knit throws, silky pillows, and woven baskets for a look that’s inviting, not fussy.
Choose Low-Key Furniture
Opt for lightweight, weatherproof side tables, you’ll want something easy to move around when you need extra space.
Add Lush Privacy
Use tall potted palms or bamboo screens to carve out your own chill zone, even if you’ve got neighbors close by.
Light It Up
String globe or Edison bulb lights overhead, so your rooftop feels twinkly and welcoming after dark.
8. Built-in Benches
Taking your rooftop deck to the next level? Modern built-in wooden benches are a game-changer. Wrap them around the edge of your deck for a custom, streamlined look that also squeezes in extra seating. Those integrated planters? They’re not just for show—tall ornamental grasses soften the lines and give you a little privacy, plus, they’re low-maintenance.
Toss on colorful cushions and pillows to keep things comfy and lively, while recessed lighting under the benches adds a subtle glow after dark. A fire table at the center makes it all feel like a luxe outdoor living room, and clear glass railings guarantee those city views stay front and center. Finish it off with hanging lanterns and a bold geometric rug, suddenly your deck’s the best spot in town.
Tips to Get This Look
Play with Color
Choose cushions and pillows in vivid, weather-resistant fabrics—think teal, mustard, or coral, don’t be afraid to mix patterns.
Mix Up Textures
Combine smooth wood, soft textiles, and metal or glass accents; this keeps your space from feeling flat.
Layer Lighting
Install LED strip lights under the benches for a modern vibe, then add lanterns or string lights overhead for warmth.
Define with Rugs
Use a geometric outdoor rug to anchor the seating area and add visual interest, make sure it’s rated for outdoor use.
Go Green
Plant easy-care ornamental grasses or succulents in the built-in planters, they add movement and a touch of nature without much fuss.
9. Rooftop Bar
There’s nothing like sipping a cocktail under the stars with city lights twinkling below, right? This rooftop bar nails the upscale-industrial look with a sleek concrete countertop, metal barstools, and floating shelves showing off those top-shelf spirits.
Warm pendant lights and copper bar tools add just enough polish, while olive trees and a mini herb garden keep things fresh and inviting. It all sits under a pergola with a retractable canopy, so you can adjust the mood (and shade) whenever you want.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Metals for Depth
Pair industrial-style metal stools with warm copper bar tools. Don’t worry about matching every finish, the contrast adds interest.
Keep the Palette Cool and Neutral
Stick to grays, blacks, and whites with occasional wood or greenery for warmth. Concrete counters are perfect—if you can’t do real, try a faux-finish kit.
Go Vertical with Shelving
Install floating shelves to display your best bottles and glassware, this frees up counter space and looks way more polished.
Add Greenery for Softness
Use modern planters with olive trees or herbs—herbs are handy for cocktails, plus they look great.
Use Layered Lighting
Combine pendant lights over the bar with softer accent lights (like string lights or lanterns) to make the space feel cozy after dark.
10. Water Feature
Assume stepping onto your rooftop at dusk—sleek stepping stones float across a long, rectangular reflecting pool, minimalist fountain jets send up gentle arcs of water that sound like a soft hush, and the pool’s underwater lights shimmer in the gathering twilight.
Potted bamboo lines the edges, creating a private green screen, while low LED path lights guide you to comfy deck chairs perfectly positioned for city views under the stars. It’s modern, serene, and a little bit magical.
This isn’t just a water feature; it’s a full sensory escape. The clean lines and simple palette let the water’s movement and light take center stage, bamboo adds a natural texture, and the whole scene feels like a luxury hotel—without leaving home.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Linear with Water
Stick to a rectangular or square pool shape for that sleek, contemporary vibe, the symmetry makes the space look bigger and more intentional.
Keep the Palette Calm
Stick to neutral tones—think charcoal, slate, or white for the pool surround and stepping stones. Let the green bamboo and blue water be the stars.
Add Texture with Greenery
Tall potted bamboo not only gives privacy, but its vertical lines and rustling leaves add a soft, organic contrast to hard surfaces.
Layer Your Lighting
Combine underwater LEDs for dramatic pool glow, low path lights for safety, and maybe even a few lanterns or string lights for extra ambiance.
Choose Low, Modern Furniture
Opt for simple, weatherproof lounge chairs with clean lines—cushions in gray or tan look sharp and won’t fight the peaceful mood.
11. Yoga Deck
Turn your rooftop into a personal zen sanctuary, perfect for sunrise stretches or evening wind-downs. Imagine bamboo flooring under your feet, surrounded by lush potted plants and a few tidy zen gardens—a tranquil escape right above the city. Minimalist design keeps it calm, while a Buddha statue and a bubbling water feature add peaceful vibes.
Lay out a few yoga mats in a row, let the city views inspire you, and light some incense to set the mood. With the warm morning sun filtering in, it’s the kind of spot that makes you look forward to your next downward dog.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Natural with Flooring
Opt for interlocking bamboo deck tiles—they’re eco-friendly, easy to install, and instantly give you that spa vibe.
Keep Furniture Minimal
Stick to just what you need: a slim bench for gear, maybe a small side table for tea or candles. Less clutter, more zen.
Layer in Greenery
Group potted plants in clusters—think ferns, snake plants, and a few bonsai for that Japanese garden feel.
Accent with Calming Colors
Choose yoga mats, cushions, and pots in soft earth tones or muted greens, these colors help the space blend with nature.
Add Meaningful Decor
A small Buddha statue, a tabletop water fountain, and a couple of stone lanterns can make the space feel intentional, not just decorated.
12. Movie Screen
Reshape your rooftop deck into a dreamy outdoor cinema—think big projector screen against a brick wall, rows of lounge seating loaded with colorful cushions, and string lights twinkling overhead.
Add a popcorn machine and a mini concession stand for that authentic theater vibe, and you’ve got a city night that’s unforgettable. Whether it’s a date night or a movie marathon with friends, this setup turns any film into an event.
Tips to Get This Look
Go Bold with Color
Mix and match vibrant cushions and cozy blankets for your lounge seating, don’t be shy—patterns and pops of color set a playful, inviting mood.
Layer Up Textures
Combine weatherproof fabrics, chunky knits, and soft throws to create seats everyone wants to sink into, this helps your space feel luxurious and comfortable.
Cozy Rows, Not Clutter
Arrange seating in neat rows or semi-circles facing the screen, leaving walkways clear for easy popcorn runs.
String Light Sparkle
Drape warm white or multi-color string lights overhead for a magical, starlit effect—even if the city’s cloudy.
DIY Concession Stand
Repurpose a bar cart or side table as your snack zone, don’t forget the popcorn machine and some cute bowls for treats.
13. String Lights
String lights aren’t just for holidays—they’re the fastest way to turn any rooftop into a cozy, romantic retreat. Here, hundreds of bistro-style lights zigzag overhead, forming a glowing canopy that reflects off glass tabletops and bathes you in warm, flattering light.
The mix of classic string bulbs and vintage-style Edison lights at different heights makes the whole scene feel intimate and a little magical. Add in some plush lounge furniture, leafy potted plants, and lanterns along the edge, and suddenly your rooftop is the place everyone wants to be at sunset.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Your Lighting
Mix standard bistro string lights with a few strands of Edison bulbs for that vintage vibe. Drape them in a crisscross pattern overhead and hang some bulbs lower to vary the heights.
Go Warm with Color
Choose string lights with a warm white or amber glow, it’s softer and more inviting than stark white LEDs. Add lanterns with flickering candles (real or battery-powered) for extra warmth.
Cozy Up the Furniture
Go for outdoor sectionals or deep lounge chairs with thick, plush cushions. Stick to neutral tones, then toss in some textured pillows or throws for a little contrast.
Add Natural Texture
Line the deck’s edge with potted plants—think leafy palms, ferns, or lavender. Mix in lanterns or hurricane candles for a touch of old-school charm.
Reflect the Light
Glass tables or mirrored trays bounce the string lights around, making the space feel even brighter and more magical at dusk.
14. Green Wall
Why settle for a few potted plants when you can turn an entire rooftop wall into a jaw-dropping vertical garden? A living green wall instantly transports your outdoor space to a lush urban oasis—imagine vibrant tropical leaves, trailing vines, and colorful blooms all climbing up a single, dramatic wall.
It’s not just for show; integrated irrigation means it’s lower maintenance than it looks, and the greenery cools the area naturally. Paired with modern, natural furniture and the gentle sound of a small fountain, this rooftop deck is both a visual and sensory escape, you’ll feel worlds away from the city’s chaos.
Tips to Get This Look
Choose the Right Plants
Pick plants that thrive vertically and love sun—ferns, philodendrons, pothos, and flowering vines like mandevilla or bougainvillea are all great picks.
Layer Natural Textures
Contrast the lush wall with wooden decking, smooth stone pathways, and rattan or teak furniture—it keeps things interesting without clashing.
Go Bold With Contrast
Modern, low-profile furniture in neutral or black finishes makes the green wall pop, so don’t be shy about mixing sleek lines with soft foliage.
Add Ambient Sound
A compact fountain or tabletop water feature brings calming noise and movement, plus it attracts birds (bonus!).
Highlight With Light
If you use your deck after dark, add warm, indirect lighting to highlight the wall’s texture and keep the vibe magical.
15. Daybed Corner
Nothing says “luxury staycation” like a plush rooftop daybed corner, especially when you’ve got an ocean view and the sky is painted with sunset gold. Picture this: an oversized canopied lounger piled high with fluffy pillows and textured throws, sheer white curtains gently billowing in the salty breeze.
You’re surrounded by lush potted palms and bursts of flowering plants for privacy, a couple of small tables nearby are ready to hold your tropical drink. The vibe? Effortlessly glamorous, totally relaxing, and impossible to leave until the stars come out.
Tips to Get This Look
Layer Up on Softness
Pile your daybed with a mix of oversized cushions, throw pillows, and chunky knit blankets—choose weather-resistant fabrics so you don’t stress about a sudden rain shower.
Go White & Light
Stick with white or pale-toned curtains and throws, it keeps the space feeling breezy and fresh, plus it catches that sunset glow perfectly.
Add Lush Greenery
Cluster potted palms or leafy tropical plants around your daybed’s corner; not only does it create privacy, but it also adds a vacation vibe in seconds.
Choose a Statement Lounger
Opt for a big, comfy daybed with a canopy or draped frame—something like a double chaise or an outdoor cabana bed will totally anchor the space.
Accessorize with Small Side Tables
Pick up a couple of compact, weatherproof tables for your drinks and books—sticking to natural materials like teak or rattan ties in with the chill, tropical feel.
16. Mini Pool
Turn your rooftop into a chic escape with a compact plunge pool—think crystal-clear water, teak decking, and those jaw-dropping city views. It’s not just for show, either: a mini pool instantly ups your relaxation game, giving you a place to cool off or sip cocktails in style.
Surround it with plush lounge chairs, string lights, and potted palms for that resort vibe, while glass railings keep the views (and you) safe. Golden hour? Absolute magic.
Tips to Get This Look
Choose Warm Wood Tones
Go for teak or weather-resistant woods—they add warmth and a luxe touch, plus they hold up well outdoors.
Stick With a Simple Color Palette
Neutral cushions, white or beige, keep things airy; add a pop of color with throw pillows or towels if you want.
Mix Up Textures
Combine soft cushions with stone accents, woven baskets, and sleek glass. It makes the space feel layered and inviting.
Light It Up
String lights overhead give you that cozy glow after sunset, they’re cheap and easy to hang.
Add Privacy with Greenery
Tuck tall potted palms or grasses around seating areas, this not only feels lush but helps block prying eyes.
17. BBQ Station
If you want to turn your rooftop into the go-to spot for summer hangs, a next-level BBQ station is the move. Imagine a pro-grade stainless steel grill sitting pretty on sleek stone countertops, with a built-in fridge and storage—everything right where you need it.
A wooden pergola overhead filters the sunset, while string or pendant lights keep the mood glowing after dark. High-top stools invite friends to linger, copper accents add a dash of shine, and a mini herb garden means fresh flavor is within arm’s reach. Toss in skyline views and platters loaded with grilled eats, and you’ve got rooftop magic, don’t forget the wine glasses.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Metals and Stone
Combine stainless steel appliances with copper hardware or decorative bowls for a modern, slightly industrial vibe that feels warm, not cold.
Go for Durable Counters
Natural stone countertops (like granite or quartzite) can handle BBQ messes and weather, plus they look super premium.
Add Cozy Lighting
Hang string lights or add outdoor lanterns under the pergola—soft, warm light makes your space feel inviting after dark.
Herb Garden Touch
Tuck small pots of rosemary, basil, or mint nearby, they add greenery and you can snip fresh herbs while grilling.
Choose Weatherproof Seating
Opt for high-top bar stools in powder-coated metal or treated wood, so they’ll last through rain or shine.
18. Planter Boxes
Custom wooden planter boxes are the backbone of an elegant rooftop garden, especially when you play with different heights. This isn’t just about adding greenery—it’s about creating levels and depth, so even a small deck feels like a mini park.
Mix tall ornamental grasses with perennials, tuck in some dwarf fruit trees for drama, and let trailing flowers spill over the sides. Built-in bench seating pulls double duty (hello, storage), while copper plant markers keep things organized and add a little flash. With a drip irrigation system, you’ll keep everything happy with less hassle, plus butterfly’s will love the blooms.
Tips to Get This Look
Mix Up Heights:
Don’t just line up boxes—choose tall, medium, and low planters. Grouping them in clusters creates that “designed” look without trying too hard.
Go for Lush Layers:
Combine grasses, flowering perennials, and small fruit trees. It’s about color and movement, not just green on green.
Pick Warm Wood Tones:
Natural or stained wood adds warmth, especially against concrete or metal railings. It makes the space feel inviting, even before you add plants.
Cozy Up with Furniture:
Choose deep-cushioned seating or a built-in bench; layer in a chunky throw or a few outdoor pillows to soften the lines.
Light It Up:
String lights are a must, not just for vibe but for actual, usable light after sunset.
19. Outdoor Shower
If you want your rooftop to feel like a five-star spa, an outdoor shower is the ultimate move. Imagine stepping onto smooth teak flooring, sunlight warming your shoulders, with a rainfall showerhead overhead and steamy mist swirling around.
Frosted glass panels give you privacy without blocking those skyline views, while a living wall of tropical plants makes the whole space feel alive and lush. Add some minimalist towel hooks, copper fixtures, and natural stone touches, and you’ve got a slice of paradise you’ll never want to leave.
Tips to Get This Look
Embrace Natural Tones
Stick to a palette of warm woods, soft greens, and stone grays for a calming vibe that won’t go out of style.
Go for Textured Flooring
Teak decking isn’t just pretty, it’s water-resistant and feels great under bare feet.
Add Greenery Everywhere
A living wall or a few potted tropicals instantly boost the retreat vibes, don’t skimp on the plants.
Keep Decor Minimal
Opt for sleek hooks, frameless glass, and simple lines—let the materials and views do the talking.
Mix Metals Thoughtfully
Copper or brass fixtures add a touch of luxury and warmth, but stick to one metal for a cohesive look.
20. Art Display
Turn your rooftop into an open-air art gallery that’ll impress your most creative friends. Start with a floating wooden deck as your sleek foundation, the minimalist design keeps all the focus on the art. Weather-resistant sculpture pedestals let you show off 3D pieces, while wall-mounted artwork sits safely behind clear cases—no worries about rain or wind.
Track lighting means you can enjoy your private gallery at sunset and well into the evening, and a comfy seating area (glass of wine, anyone?) makes it easy to contemplate your favorite works as the city lights up below. Japanese maple trees in pots add just enough color and texture, and with dramatic sunset shadows, your art will look different every night.
Tips to Get This Look
Keep the Palette Neutral
Opt for grays, whites, and natural wood tones; this lets your art and the cityscape shine without distraction.
Invest in Weatherproof Furniture
Choose low-profile, minimalist chairs and tables in weather-resistant materials—think powder-coated steel or teak, you don’t want to haul cushions inside every night.
Layer in Subtle Texture
Add depth with a mix of smooth concrete, warm wood, and glass accents. A textured outdoor rug can also ground the seating area.
Highlight With Lighting
Install outdoor track lighting or slim LED spotlights, aim them at artwork to create dramatic shadows as the sun sets.
Go Green (But Not Wild)
Pick a few statement plants like Japanese maples in sculptural pots for a pop of color and organic elegance—no jungle vibes here.
21. Skylight View Spot
There’s something magical about a rooftop deck with a big skylight right in the middle—a literal window to the world below. Arrange some cushy lounge chairs around a large rectangular skylight, it instantly becomes the spot everyone wants to claim.
The warm wood decking and modern glass railings keep things feeling open and sophisticated, while string lights overhead add just the right amount of cozy glow as dusk falls. Toss in some leafy potted plants and a little side table for your drinks, and you’ve got a space that feels both chill and a bit upscale, all with a killer city view.
Tips to Get This Look
Go for Warm Wood
Pick deck boards in rich, warm wood tones—think teak or cedar—for that inviting, natural vibe.
Mix Soft Textures
Opt for lounge chairs with thick, comfy cushions in neutral colors. Toss in a chunky knit throw or two for extra coziness.
Layer with Potted Greenery
Cluster a few large potted plants around the edges to soften the lines and bring in some life without blocking the view.
String Some Ambient Lights
Hang warm white string lights overhead for those perfect sunset evenings, you’ll get that golden-hour magic every night.
Keep Furniture Low and Modern
Choose low-profile, modern lounge chairs and simple side tables—nothing too bulky, so the view (and conversation) flows easily.