Private roof terrace

The owners of this house already had a courtyard at ground floor level which was their more ‘public’ and visible outdoor space for their family and friends but they also had a lovely South West facing roof terrace at the top of the house which they wanted to use as a more private space for their own private enjoyment throughout the year.

It leads off their study and private sitting room, but would also need to double up as an additional entertainment space in the Summer, particularly in the light of the fantastic views it offers over the surrounding area.

Charlotte Rowe Garden Design worked closely with the client to create an outdoor sitting room and dining room in a classic contemporary style.

The paving is a pale buff limestone suspended on supports to allow drainage and there is a large day bed and a tall hand-made screen in Western Red Cedar to the North. Black stemmed bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra) is planted in front of the screen to provide additional shelter from the wind and privacy.

A dark limestone dining table was designed for one end of the terrace for eating and entertaining and two plinths were built for sculpture. There is a black wall-mounted umbrella which provides further protection from the sun.

© Steve Gorton