Hot Rooftop Deck Ideas: Design Trends for 2024

Rooftop decks have become an increasingly popular trend. Whether in bustling cities or tranquil country settings, these elevated outdoor spaces offer a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics. For 2024, it's time to explore the latest trends and ideas shaping rooftop deck design. From public spaces to family-centric layouts, to the best materials and installation systems, we gathered the latest innovations here.

Recently completed gorgeous Garapa Wood rooftop deck design at the Coast Guard Academy, Connecticut

Recent Trends in Rooftop Deck Design

The art of rooftop deck design continues to captivate architects and homeowners alike. From sustainable materials and greenery integration to technology-driven features, the focus remains on creating sustainable, inviting, and versatile outdoor areas.

Since the pandemic, more and more homeowners and businesses are adding rooftop space. There continues to be a demand by families, employees, and the public for these rooftop areas for work and play. Some of these trends have stayed on trend for a few years, and some are strong new contenders. 

Where are rooftop decks being added? We are seeing more and more rooftop decks being designed and built for:

• Urban spaces
• Country homes
• Entertaining at home
• Dining. Nightlife, and Event Spaces
• Attached homes
• Public spaces
• Commercial and office buildings

The biggest designs themes we are seeing in both public and private rooftop decks are:

• Natural wood
• Minimalism
• Sustainable
• Modern
• Industrial
• Private retreats
• Gathering spaces
• Outdoor kitchens
• Family friendly
• Workplace friendly
  
  

The sheer number of design ideas can be overwhelming, so we have put together together several examples with these themes in mind.  There might be a few in here that are just what you're looking for. 

Why Natural Wood Decking? 

Homeowners and building owners love natural hardwoods because they are distinctly suited to the harsh UV and weather conditions that a rooftop is subjected to, unlike softwoods like cedar and redwood, or plastic based composites. Softwoods and plastic decking materials are not recommended for rooftop decks since they can that can warp, fade, and become damaged quickly. Architects love natural hardwood for their rooftop deck designs because its a design element all on its own. Hardwood gives them design flexibility to create beautiful, long lasting spaces. Real wood adds a soft, gorgeous look to your rooftop deck with a range of colors and grain patterns, plus interesting figuring, to choose from. 

Real wood also feels better and more comfortable underfoot, and hardwood resists splintering and checking incredibly well, unlike softwood species. It contrasts nicely with pavers, cement, brick, glass, and other rooftop elements that are visually cold, creating a warm, welcoming appeal. 

Hardwood decking has a incredibly long lifetime, even if you let it weather to a soft, satiny gray. Bonus, hardwoods are high fiber density wood decking, so no painting, staining or refinishing is necessary. A simple oil-based UV protectant as needed protects the natural color, unless you decide to let it "go gray". This density also gives it an incredible natural resistance to insect damage, water damage, rot and mold. 

RELATED: Choosing the Best Decking Materials For Rooftop Decks and Patios

A natural hardwood rooftop deck and pergola is much more visually friendly and physically comfortable underfoot than if it was only stone, metal and glass.  

Urban Rooftop Decks

Along the metropolitan skylines, rooftop decks offer a breath of fresh air, literally. From sleek, minimalist designs to vibrant, nature-inspired havens, city rooftop decks can embrace a variety of styles. There’s a big focus on multifunctional furniture and green areas so urban dwellers can enjoy a serene outdoor retreat away from street noise. Bars and restaurants are also seeing the advantages to having more outdoor dining spaces, and the demand from diners.

Multifunctional Built In Seating

Multifunctional benches adds height, interest and - of course -  seating to your urban rooftop deck. These natural wood, stacked benches double as sculptural details and planters. 

Here this design is included in a commercial space that includes grassy area to contrast with the real Garapa hardwood decking and seating. Garapa is a golden blonde to light brown wood.

Garapa characteristics include project-friendly criteria like a lower upfront cost than other hardwoods, a naturally lighter colored, modern wood tone that needs no staining or painting, 

Use this design element in a small rooftop space or residential rooftop. Create just one or two stacked seating features and define a gathering area.  

Photo by Sergey Raikin

Lush Retreat

Photo courtesy of @TheOrganicGardnerNYC

Country Roof Deck Designs

In contrast to their urban counterparts, country deck designs are leaning towards a more rustic and natural aesthetic. Embracing the surrounding landscape, these decks seamlessly blend with the natural beauty of the countryside. Incorporating elements like wooden pergolas, fire pits, and native plantings, these decks offer a serene escape, perfect for embracing the tranquil countryside ambiance.

Retreat With A View

In California wine country, this home added a rooftop deck to enjoy the beautiful view. 

Balcony With A View

Looking out over California's Bay Area, this rooftop balcony deck uses Machiche hardwood for the decking and the table. This photo shows it weathered to a beautiful silvery patina after a few years of exposure to the weather. hardwood was chosen since it will not require additional maintenance once weathered. 

Rooftop Entertaining

Rooftop decks continue to evolve as the pinnacle – pun intended - of entertainment spaces, offering the perfect setting for gatherings and social events. With the addition of smart outdoor audio systems, ambient lighting, and modular seating arrangements, these decks create an inviting ambiance for hosting memorable  gatherings under the open sky both day and night.

Soft Industrial

Want to build a welcoming entertainment space but have lots of industrial roof elements? Easily incorporate them by contrasting with natural wood decking and greenery. Even the cabinets at the bar seating are faced with the same natural hardwood. In contrast of the brick and metal factory tower above, this space feels warm and inviting. 

Photo Courtesy of @TheOrganicGardenerNYC

Welcome Friends

Spaces with lots of comfy furniture and natural might be just the thing for your city rooftop gathering area. On this lovely space, pops of bright color contrast with the natural earth tones of Ipe hardwood decking and the matching Ipe table. The contrast of a glass and metal railing and a wall of glass windows gives it an inviting feel. This is a perfect space for morning coffee or late night cocktails with friends. 

Ipe hardwood decking offers a popular and iconic medium to dark brown color range. Ipe is the hardest of the hardwoods and has been proven to last decades even when weathered. It requires minimal maintenance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your rooftop deck. 

Photo Courtesy of @TheOrganicGardenerNYC

Rooftop Pool Deck

If you are designing a rooftop pool, you are not limited to a cold hardscape deck. Incorporating low slip, low splinter Ipe hardwood with high moisture resistance gives you more options. Here, an outdoor shower with shelves and seating add a comfortable, spa-like space to the pool area.

The low maintenance, high moisture resistant, and low repair needs are added perks. Using hardwood will save you time, money, and labor and increase your return on your decking investment. 

RELATED: 15 Impressive Designs for Wooden Pool Decks

Outdoor Rooms for Family Time

For families in attached housing or on small plots of real estate, rooftop decks are becoming an extension of their living spaces. Seeking a private outdoor retreat, rooftop decks can be kid-friendly zones that can even contain play structures. Your rooftop deck can also be a cozy lounging area to hang out as the kids get older. With safety and comfort as top priorities, family-centric rooftop decks provide a alternative area for quality time together when a backyard is not an option, or in addition to one. 

Pergola and Playscapes

Rooftop Public Spaces

In urban landscapes, the concept of public rooftop decks is gaining momentum. These communal areas serve as a haven for city dwellers seeking solace amidst the bustling urban life. Incorporating elements like community gardens, open-air theaters, and recreational zones, these public spaces redefine the very essence of city living.

Community Spaces

In Kirkland, Washington, a commercial and retail space created Ipe hardwood decking steps and seating areas for the public. 

Community Gatherings

Public spaces at malls, office complex, and apartment buildings can be made into attractive gathering areas. This fosters a sense of community and attracts tenants to the building. 

Commercial Rooftops

With real estate being at a premium, and employees demanding more flexible work areas, rooftop decks continue to redefine the concept of corporate workspaces. Offering employees and clients a refreshing escape from the monotony of office life, commercial rooftop decks are being designed with sleek, contemporary aesthetics, integrating elements like outdoor meeting areas, green spaces, and recreational zones to foster a more productive and engaging work environment.

Outdoor Office Space

Work Retreat

Give employees a place to escape the grind, or bring work outside. 

We expect to see the realm of rooftop deck designs continues to evolve, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of urban and rural dwellers alike. Whether as public havens or private sanctuaries, these outdoor spaces offer a can offer harmonious blend of design and tranquility, adding a place to unwind from our bustling lives. As we move through 2024, expect to see innovative ideas and trends that will further expand the concept of rooftop decks functionality and appeal.