West Town Contemporary Rooftop Patio & Lounge
This stylish West Town rooftop garden received a complete makeover, transforming an outdated deck into a contemporary outdoor living destination. Rooftopia removed the old worn wooden deck and replaced it with modern materials and design, creating a sophisticated patio and lounge perfect for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying Chicago's urban landscape.
Complete Deck Renovation & Modern Transformation
The project began with a full deck overhaul, removing dated wooden surfaces and replacing them with contemporary finishes and systems that modernize the space while improving performance and durability.
Floating Pedestal Flooring System
The deck features new porcelain tiles installed on a floating pedestal system—an innovative approach that delivers multiple benefits:
Enhanced drainage – Water flows beneath the deck surface, preventing pooling
Roof membrane protection – Eliminates direct UV exposure, extending roof lifespan
Even weight dispersal – Distributes the load of garden elements and furniture evenly
Modular design – Allows for easy adjustments and replacements
Low maintenance – Minimal upkeep compared to traditional deck construction
This flooring approach combines elegance with engineering, creating a gorgeous deck surface that's both beautiful and functionally superior.
Custom Pergola & Skyline View Framing
A custom-made metal pergola with a wooden screen anchors the design. This structure serves a dual purpose:
Shade and privacy – The pergola offers comfortable shade to the primary seating and lounge area
Architectural framing – The pergola artfully frames the incredible city skyline views, integrating the urban landscape into the design
The pleasing surround created by the pergola transforms the rooftop into a sophisticated retreat.
Outdoor Kitchen & Custom Bar Ledge
The outdoor kitchen provides comprehensive entertaining capabilities with premium materials:
Marine grade aluminum cabinets – Durable, weather-resistant storage and prep surfaces
Custom concrete countertop – Personalized work surface with a modern aesthetic
Custom bar ledge – Features an original metal screen pattern and integrated seating, positioned to highlight the stunning skyline views and keep conversation flowing
The bar ledge design demonstrates thoughtful hospitality—seating oriented to maximize the view while creating natural gathering zones.
Central Dining & Entertaining Configuration
The centrally located dining area makes it easy to entertain a crowd, host out-of-town guests before a concert, or simply prepare a refreshing drink after work. The strategic positioning creates natural traffic flow and multiple social zones across the rooftop.
Landscape Design & Privacy Screening
Rooftopia used landscape elements to soften the architectural edges and enhance the rooftop experience:
Large planter boxes & greenery – Positioned to soften hard building lines, add privacy, and frame skyline views
Seasonal containers – Placed near the entrance and seating areas for pops of colorful flowers that can be refreshed throughout the year
Thoughtful scale and placement – Each element chosen to work with the rooftop's dimensions and optimize the view
Automated Irrigation & Sustainable Maintenance
An automated irrigation system is a key part of the landscape strategy:
Daily timer operation – Plants are watered automatically on a consistent schedule
Low-maintenance approach – Clients can spend their time relaxing while plants stay healthy and vibrant
Sustainable design – Efficient watering supports plant health without manual effort or waste
Outdoor Lighting & Evening Ambiance
Strategic lighting design extends the rooftop's usability and beauty into the evening:
Integrated LED lighting – Highlights beautiful garden elements and provides functional illumination
Patio string lights – Create warm, inviting ambient atmosphere for entertaining and relaxation
Layered lighting design – Combines functional and decorative elements for maximum impact
The Result
This West Town rooftop exemplifies contemporary outdoor design—clean lines, innovative materials, sophisticated entertaining spaces, and thoughtful landscape integration. The result is a modern urban retreat that celebrates the Chicago skyline while providing all the comfort and functionality needed for everyday enjoyment and memorable entertaining.
