How to Decorate your Roof-Top Terrace

Now that it's summer, it's important to get our gardens and terraces ready so we can fully enjoy them. We'll show you some ideas for decorating your roof-top terrace. 
How to Decorate your Roof-Top Terrace

Last update: 06 January, 2019

In this post, we want to give you some ideas for how to practically decorate your roof-top terrace. During the summer, our gardens and terraces become the most important rooms in our homes since we spend so much time there. That’s why it’s important to get them ready so we can take full advantage of them.

Even if your terrace isn’t very big, there are some great options for it. By choosing the right furniture and setting it up well, you’ll have plenty of space.

Like we have said before, plants and warm lighting are essential for creating an intimate and cozy environment where you can rest and relax. 

Here are five tips you can use to decorate your roof-top terrace:

1. Set things up correctly on your roof-top terrace

This is so important, especially for smaller terraces. If you set up a small area well, it will make it look larger than it really is. If you have enough space, you can try to divide the terrace into the following sections:

  • Eating area: set up a sofa, some cushions, and a low table. Or, you can use chairs, benches and a higher table.
  • Green area: as we said, plants are fundamental. You can place them throughout the space. They’ll give your terrace a natural and colorful touch.
  • Storage space: this will help you organize the household items that you’ll use on the terrace.
  • Rest area: you can use sofas, hammocks, loungers, pergolas or umbrellas.

Also, dividing your zones will make them easier to clean and organize. Additionally, the space will visually be more appealing.

2. Show off your views as much as possible

The views are definitely one of the best things about a roof-top terrace. So, it’s important to show them off so that you can fully enjoy them. One option is to put in glass rails so it won’t obstruct any of the views. Also, be sure you’re not getting in the way of the view when putting pergolas, awnings or umbrellas on the terrace.

Another possibility is using a glass enclosure. Although they’re more expensive, they’re also very worth the investment. This will allow you to use the terrace year-round because it protects the space from inclement weather. Additionally, this will help the space capture more light, giving it the appearance of being more spacious.

3. Inside and outside

You might not think about this when you’re setting up your roof-top terrace, but it’s important. For example, if the entrance to the terrace is through the bedroom, you won’t want to place the eating area right next to it. This would bring all of the bad smells into the room. In this case, it’d be best to put the rest area or chill out zone close to the bedroom entrance.

However, if access to the terrace is through the kitchen, you should place the eating area by it. This will make it easier to bring out dishes or to clear them away, as well as other household items and meals. Make sure to always optimize the space you’re working with. 

roof-top terrace

4. Choose the right furniture

Next, you’ll have to think about the furniture that you’re going to use to decorate your roof-top terrace. Make sure the furniture you’re using for the eating area matches the style of the rest and storage area.

Hammocks and hanging chairs (egg-shaped ones) are very common for terraces, and they’re comfy. It’s important to keep the area in order and that it has unity; this will make it feel more comfortable. Also, keep in mind that some materials need more care than others, so think about that before buying certain types of furniture.

Natural fibers like rattan or wicker tend to look great outdoors. They add a simple and very natural touch.

You could also consider making the furniture yourself, which is very common in rest and relaxation areas. Pallets are great for this project, you just have to sand them before using them. If you like its natural color, you won’t even have to paint or coat them.

If you don’t have a lot of storage space available, we recommend choosing folding chairs, lounge chairs, and hammocks. That way, when you have to store them for the winter, they’ll hardly take up any space.

5. Accessories are important

Accessories are essential for enhancement.

When it comes to a roof-top terrace, some examples are pergolas, umbrellas or awnings. Sunlight hits roof-tops more directly, so it’s important to protect them from the elements, especially if you plan to use them during the middle of the day.

And, we definitely can’t forget the lighting, mainly for early mornings or nights. You can hang up garlands of lights, lanterns or candles (even aromatic ones).

Another thing we can add to our terrace are textiles, like cushion covers, which are essential accessories for the terrace. Another example is rugs, which are great for the rest and relaxation area.

As you can see, decorating your terrace doesn’t have to be difficult. You just have to set it up in a way that takes advantage of the space and choose a decorative style that matches your tastes and, preferably, your home’s interior.