Lakeview Luxury Rooftop Deck with Custom Pergola
Rooftopia transformed an existing Lakeview rooftop into a sophisticated, multi-functional outdoor living space designed for family time, working from home, and effortless entertaining. The project began with structural analysis coordinated with a structural engineer, followed by significant roof repairs completed by trusted roofing partners to establish a sound foundation for the new rooftop deck. Rooftopia managed the process from technical planning through design and installation, coordinating the specialists, materials, and construction details required to bring the project together.
Much like an interior design project, our process involves thoughtfully designing, selecting and coordinating finishes, textures, and materials to create a cohesive aesthetic. For an outdoor environment exposed to Chicago’s changing seasons, those choices also needed to account for durability, weather exposure, and long-term performance. The result is a carefully considered palette that balances contemporary architecture with warmth and inviting details.
The modern design pairs blue Hardie® siding with warm wood tones, crisp white custom-fabricated steel privacy screens, and gray-brown wood-look porcelain pavers by Unilock, installed on an elevated pedestal system. A custom-designed pergola anchors the space, complemented by an Urban Bonfire outdoor cabinetry system with a custom Dekton countertop and a matching Dekton bar ledge. Together, these elements create distinct areas for food preparation, serving, gathering, and relaxing.
A retractable shade screen along the west side of the pergola helps reduce the impact of the setting sun while providing additional privacy and a more intimate atmosphere for evenings outdoors. A generous sectional sofa and custom fire table, featuring a coordinating white Dekton surface, create a comfortable gathering area that extends the rooftop’s use into the cooler fall months. Infrared heaters integrated into the pergola provide additional warmth as temperatures drop.
Custom planter boxes accommodate seasonal annuals, perennials, and a dedicated vegetable garden, bringing natural texture and greenery into the modern architectural setting. Outdoor lighting and irrigation are thoughtfully integrated throughout the design, with functional systems discreetly incorporated to preserve the clean, uncluttered aesthetic. From the underlying roof conditions to the final finish selections, each element was considered as part of a cohesive whole.
The result is a private Chicago rooftop retreat that extends the home’s living space above the city, combining contemporary design, carefully coordinated materials, integrated systems, and professional project management. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the space brings together the comfort and finish of an interior living environment with the durability and functionality required outdoors.
