10 best rooftops for entertainers

1. Notting Hill Rooftop

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Notting Hill Rooftop by Adolfo Harrison Gardens | Image: Andreas von Einsiedel

Bordered by a container garden and a basalt stone wall, this rooftop designed by Adolfo Harrison in collaboration with Maddux Creative is the perfect entertainer’s retreat. Deep timber seating wraps around a central fireplace allowing for use in both the warmer and cooler months.

2. Kips Bay Rooftop

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Kips Bay Rooftop | Image: Rikki Snyder

This New York rooftop surrounded by towering buildings offers plenty of amenities for outdoor entertaining. Large modular seating and a fully-equipped kitchen are positioned at opposing ends of the rooftop with plants and sculpture in between.

See photos by Rikki Snyder of this rooftop here.

3. Redfern Rooftop

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Redfern Rooftop by Adam Robinson Design | Photography: Natalie Hunfalvay

This generous rooftop in the Sydney suburb of Redfern is contemporary in design with a masculine aesthetic. Designed by Adam Robinson Design, this outdoor space plans on texture and pattern through foliage, materials and colour.

4. Case Inlet Retreat

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Case Inlet Retreat by MW|Works Architecture + Design

Pre-dinner drinks or a nightcap anyone? This Case Inlet Retreat designed by MW| Works features a rooftop that makes the most of the view. The flat roof hovering above the living spaces creates a feeling of relaxing outdoors within the trees.

5. Russian Hill Rooftop

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Russian Hill Roof Deck designed by Gast Architects | Photography: Paul Dyer

One of the best rooftops for entertainers is this San Francisco penthouse rooftop designed by Gast Architects. With a client brief for dining, lounging and cooking spaces, in addition to a sauna, this rooftop had to perform many duties, all the while maximising the sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Coit Tower and beyond.

6. Gramercy Park Terrace

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Gramercy Park Terrace by Gunn Landscapes |Photography: Alex Herring

This Gramercy Park Terrace in New York designed by Gunn Landscapes makes the most of the city views, yet provides privacy and ample space for entertaining. Low hedging protects the dining and lounging areas from the winds and adds a green backdrop. Integrated bench seating saves space while offering plenty of room for guests.

7. Newport Beach Residence

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Newport Beach Rooftop by Paul Davis Architects | Photography: Art Gray

Paul Davis Architects has maximised this homeowner’s useable square footage with this outdoor rooftop space. The roof terrace features soft landscaping set into the timber decking as well as this private living area with an open fire. The outdoor space continues below with several living spaces to entertain within.

View more of this project here.

8. Cheyne Terrace

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Cheyne Terrace by Randle Siddeley

This classic rooftop designed by Randle Siddeley in Chelsea wraps around the residence offering an outdoor lounge area and a private garden space in raised beds. Elegant and streamlined sofas in a neutral colour palette are paired with occasional chairs and coffee tables for entertaining.

9. East Village Roof Garden

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East Village Roof Garden by pulltab | Photography: Bilyana Dimitrova

This rooftop in the East Village designed by pulltab is all about the garden but provides plenty of space and amenities for outdoor entertaining. Integrated custom designed seating creates the feeling of being within the garden which features lush planting and a beautiful water feature. There’s even an outdoor shower!

10. City Rooftop 

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City Rooftop by Secret Gardens of Sydney

Rounding up our list of best rooftops for entertainers is this spacious terrace by Secret Gardens. High up on level 25, this rooftop provides easy outdoor living for its residents. The classic formal planting compliments the interiors while the use of timber and casual Eco Outdoor furniture adds warmth and texture to the space.