Moreover, the need to control the negative effects of the surrounding environment has prompted builders and landscape architects to develop solutions to preserve the environment. Roof garden design plan is one of them.
A rooftop garden design is a green space that originated from European homes in the past, which had roofs made of turf. However, today’s urban landscape is congested and lacks sufficient green space; therefore, a roof garden design serves as an ideal solution.
This blog has all the details mentioning how rooftop garden designs contribute positively to urban ecosystems and create a relaxing space.
Also Read: 10 Landscape Design Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Dream Garden
A Reference Chart For Roof Garden Design Plan
Select the right plants for your rooftop garden and add colors that will surely brighten up your space.
Below are the listed rooftop garden design ideas:
| Rooftop Garden Design Ideas | Details |
| A Linear Rooftop | It has a limited width and runs linearly along the edge of an apartment. You can add spider plants and peace lilies. |
| Open Sunlit Rooftop | It is a modern roof garden design, without any shade, keeping the center open. Lavender and rosemary could be a few additions. |
| Sloped or Uneven Rooftop | It represents a height difference of at least 1 to 2 feet across a span of 20 to 26 feet. Areca palm and elephant ears can be incorporated into the upper tiers. |
| A Japanese-Inspired Rooftop Garden | The natural elements, such as gravel, sand, or even bamboo, create a serene atmosphere. You can add wall planters, trellises, and hanging pots. |
| Rooftops with Built Structures | Rooftops with built structures offer 200 to 300 sq ft of open floor area. Bamboo, hibiscus, ferns, and crotons frame the built structure. |
Elements for a Roof Garden Design
The hot desert climate with limited rainfall makes gardening in the UAE a bit challenging. You must consider a few key factors to ensure the rooftop can support the weight of the plants.
The following are the elements to be considered for a rooftop garden design:
Purpose of Rooftop Garden
Consider how you want your rooftop garden to look. If you wish for the rooftop garden design to be a peaceful retreat or an entertainment area.
Space Layout
Although rooftops have limited space, you can still create multiple zones within your garden to maximize the available area. Consider developing a lounging area, a dining space, or a small herb garden.
Sunlight and Shade
Different parts of your rooftop will receive varying amounts of sunlight, so opt for a rooftop garden plan according to the sun’s path, ensuring plants get the right amount of sunlight and shade.
Wind and Rain Protection
Depending on the direction of the winds, you can choose among pergolas, privacy screens, or planters to act as windbreaks. Consider using adjustable shades to provide shelter from the sun.
Also Read: How to Fix Brown Spots in Grass on Your Lawn
Planning Your Space with Roof Garden Design Ideas
A roof garden design is installed at the top of a residential or commercial structure. It has various kinds of vegetation, ranging from potted plants to a complex design with garden beds.
The following are the roof garden ideas:
A Linear Roof Design
A linear rooftop is one of the roof garden design ideas that runs linearly along the edge of an apartment. Since a linear rooftop design has limited width, it is more practical to dedicate only one side for fixed elements.
If you want to install weatherproof flooring, this rooftop garden design requires a slight slope towards the railing side, making it easier to direct rainwater into a corner drain.
For vertical layering, consider adding plants like spider plants and peace lilies. You can also hang string lights on the railing.
Open Sunlit Rooftop
A modern roof garden design typically spans 15 x 15 feet or more, offering a symmetrical structure. This rooftop garden design features no shade, keeping the center open and allowing for a clear view. You can keep a gentle slope of around 1.5% to 2.5% towards the two adjoining edges.
Lavender, rosemary, and flowering vines create a Mediterranean effect. A few additions to your rooftop could be a shaded seating arch or a pebbled pathway.
Sloped or Uneven Rooftop Garden Design
You will mainly find this rooftop garden plan in older homes. Sloped or uneven designs represent a height difference of at least 1 to 2 feet across a span of 20 to 26 feet. Each tiered platform functions as an independent zone, having a dedicated drain placed at the lowest point of the level.
You can incorporate areca palm and elephant ears into the upper tiers. Deck plants add stability, whereas step lights along the various levels offer an attractive look.
Japanese-Inspired Garden
A Japanese-inspired rooftop garden is one of the roof garden ideas that encourages reflection and mindfulness. The natural elements, such as gravel, sand, or even bamboo, foster a sense of peace. You can create a stone pathway in your Japanese rooftop or opt for traditional flora such as bonsai trees and ferns.
Wall planters, trellises, and hanging pots are integrated into this modern roof garden design. It promotes biodiversity and improves air quality. Utilize soft moss and varied foliage to introduce an authentic Japanese aesthetic.
Covered Rooftop with Built Structures
In independent homes, rooftops with built structures offer 200 to 300 sq ft of open floor area. Since built structures are one of the rooftop garden design ideas that require careful planning, they are used for various purposes.
To prevent water stagnation, the open spaces between structures slope away from the built structures.
You can add bamboo, hibiscus, ferns, and crotons to frame the built structure in this rooftop garden design plan. Ceramic wall art, terracotta pot clusters, and a central stone ring planter add value to your rooftop designs.
Also Read: 6 Stylish & Elegant Deck and Patio Ideas for Small Spaces
Create a Custom Roof Garden Design Plan
Considerations for rooftop designs are more important than planning the layout of the ground.
With the 5 roof garden design ideas described in this blog, you must have realized how creatively you can develop an outdoor space.
KLG is a landscaping company in Dubai, creating green spaces by installing a variety of outdoor features. We offer gardening services in Dubai and possess the expertise to provide tailored solutions, ensuring your space reflects your unique style.
KLG modifies a blank rooftop into an inviting space. So, when are you consulting us for your project?
FAQs
What is the best soil for a rooftop garden?
Professional growers use horticultural perlite and peat moss mixtures for many reasons. They form a lightweight planting mix for rooftop gardens and other areas where the use of everyday soil presents a weight problem.
What are the benefits of a rooftop garden?
A green roof, also known as a rooftop garden, is a vegetative layer grown on a rooftop. Green roofs provide shade, remove heat from the air, and reduce the temperatures of the roof surface and the surrounding air.
How to maintain a rooftop garden design?
Maintain a rooftop garden design by inspecting drains, checking the waterproof layer, trimming plants, and removing debris on a regular basis. Seasonal checks after monsoons or heavy rainfall help detect any early signs of leakage or drainage blockages.
How much does a rooftop terrace cost?
The cost of a rooftop terrace depends on materials, design, and amenities.
How long does a roof last?
The average lifespan of a roof typically ranges from 25 to 50 years. However, a roof’s life expectancy ultimately depends on the quality, durability, and type of material chosen.
