In the urban landscape of Greece, above the daily traffic and noise, lies an untapped treasure: the rooftop.
For decades, it was just a functional space for water heaters and antennas.
Today, however, modern architecture is rediscovering it, seeing it as the “fifth face” of the building, as an opportunity to create a private oasis of greenery and relaxation above the city.
However, transforming a terrace into a roof garden is not a simple decoration project.
It is a complex architectural project that requires knowledge, attention to detail and comprehensive design.
In this article, Idicon presents the critical steps and design principles for a successful, safe and aesthetically pleasing result.
1. First of all: The necessary technical requirements
Before we even dream of plants and furniture, we must ensure the technical integrity of our base. This step is non-negotiable and determines the success and safety of the entire project.
- Static Adequacy: The first and most critical question. Can the roof slab withstand the new, permanent loads (soil, water, floors, pergolas, furniture, people)? A check by an experienced civil engineer is necessary to determine the maximum allowable weight and guarantee safety.
- Waterproofing & Thermal Insulation: This is the most important step for the health of the building. An excellent, multi-layered waterproofing (hydro-insulation) with special anti-root membranes will protect your home from leaks and moisture. At the same time, proper thermal insulation will improve the energy efficiency of the entire building.
- Water Drainage System: A garden needs water, but excess water must be removed effectively. Designing proper slopes and installing proper drains (siphons) is vital.
2. Designing the Layout: Creating “Rooms” in Heaven
Once we have secured the technical basis, we design the space as we would design the interior of a house. We create functional zones (zoning) to cover all needs:
- Lounge Area: A comfortable space with sofas, armchairs and a low table for relaxation and socializing.
- Dining Zone: A sheltered, often covered, dining area, ideal for meals with friends.
- Green Area: The areas where the bulk of planting will be concentrated.
- BBQ / Outdoor Kitchen Area: If space allows, a specially designed counter for cooking.
3. Basic Architectural & Structural Elements
These elements will define the character and functionality of your roof garden.
- The Floor: The choices are many: wooden decking for warmth, outdoor tiles for durability, artificial turf for a green feel without maintenance, or pebbles for decorative zones. The choice depends on aesthetics, allowable weight and budget.
- Shading: Essential for the summer months in Greece. A modern pergola (wooden or metal), a shade sail or an automated awning can define the space and offer protection.
- Lighting: The right lighting design transforms the terrace at night. We combine functional lighting (e.g., above the dining table), atmospheric lighting (hidden lighting in planters, spotlights on the floor) and security lighting.
4. Green: The Planting Strategy
The choice of plants and planting method is a design decision.
- Fixed Planters: Built-in, large planters allow for the planting of larger plants and small trees, delimit the space and constitute structural elements of the design.
- Plant Selection: We choose plants that are resistant to the specific conditions of a terrace (bright sun, wind). Mediterranean herbs, aromatic shrubs, olive trees, and resistant ornamental plants are ideal choices.
- Automatic Watering: It is an investment that ensures the health of your plants with minimal effort and proper water management.
5. The Legal Framework: What You Need to Know
It is important to know that converting a terrace into a roof garden is subject to regulations, and for certain permanent structures such as a pergola over 50 sq m. or the construction of a BBQ, a small-scale building permit is required from the city planning department. An architect can guide you through the entire process.
The Architect as Orchestrator
A successful roof garden is not a DIY project, but a complex architectural project.
Our role at Idicon is to "orchestrate" all the necessary factors: from the static study and the selection of the right insulation systems, to the layout design, the selection of materials and the aesthetic unification of the space, ensuring a result that is simultaneously beautiful, functional and absolutely safe.
Your rooftop is not a wasted space on top of the building.
It is an invaluable opportunity to create a private oasis, an additional “lung” of greenery that will increase your quality of life and the commercial value of your property.
The transformation of your terrace starts with a proper and complete design. If you are ready to discover the true potential of your space, contact us.
Let's design your own oasis with a view of the city together.
