How Janet Rosenberg & Studio overcame condo rules and windy conditions to create an urban oasis in the sky

Remodelling a 125-square-metre penthouse terrace presents design challenges not necessarily encountered on the ground, but a few simple and strategic gestures transformed this sky-high space into a unique oasis. To accommodate limitations like drainage and condo corporation rules, the renovation was kept simple, retaining the existing wood decking and staining it a clean sand-grey.

Charcoal-toned elements pop against the neutral backdrop of the decking, including a shade sail, matte-finish planters and wireframe furniture. A geometric carpet of sedum afforded a lightweight, low-maintenance solution for the harsh conditions of rooftop gardening. Seasonal shifts in the sedum bed are expressed in yellow and pink, a subtle hint of colour among the largely monochromatic palette of the terrace. The inviting garden setting is visible from within the unit through large panes of glass, and functions as a natural extension of the home’s activities. jrstudio.ca

Outdoor furniture available at Torp Inc. Originally published in our Small Spaces 2019 issue as Janet Rosenberg & Studio.