US developers reach for the skies with jazzy rooftops
Spaces that were used to house water tanks and other elements are being given makeovers as observatory decks, luxe lounges and community gardens
In the world of new high-end apartment buildings, rooftops have become as alluring as the flats themselves, being lavished with the same attention as the lobby and other public spaces. Previously consigned as places for water tanks or other functional elements, or ascribed for the sole use of the penthouse dweller, these spaces are increasingly being turned into observatory decks, luxe lounges and even community gardens for everyone in the building to enjoy.
“[Developers of] new buildings now do like to take into consideration rooftop access for the use of all the residents of the building,” said Mark Higgins, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Trumark Urban, the San Francisco-based developer of a number of luxe buildings, including the upcoming The Pacific in that city’s Pacific Heights neighbourhood. The nine-storey building, which is slated for completion by September, features a glass-enclosed rooftop space with a 23-foot ceiling and chandelier, and prospective clients are invited to step outside, recline on a lounger next to an outdoor fireplace with a glass of wine, and take in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
The approach of The Pacific – where flats will range in price from US$2 million to US$20 million – is one that is being embraced by a number of high-end developers around the world, who are viewing the rooftop as another amenity that can be mined to appeal to the buyer who is spoilt for choice.
At Paramount Miami Worldcenter, an upcoming development in Miami, there is a literal observatory at the top of the 60-storey building. Called the SkyDeck, the glass-encased room comes with a telescope attached to a digital screen, allowing all residents to pop up to star gaze.