High above Chicago’s Lincoln Park, a hidden oasis unfolds atop a residential building, a 3,400-square-foot rooftop retreat that feels more like a yard in the sky than a traditional terrace. Designed by dSPACE Studio, this elevated escape sits above a combined penthouse unit, offering sweeping views, rich plant life, and a mix of tranquil and active zones.
The design uses elevation creatively. Terraced hardwood and porcelain tile steps guide visitors through a series of outdoor rooms: a sun deck, a kitchen and dining area, a sport court, and a private lounge. Decking is pulled back from the parapet walls, opening sightlines to the surrounding green roof, where flowering sedum softens the edges and brings seasonal color.
A small “forest” of birch tree screens shields one edge of the rooftop from neighboring views, while willows sway softly behind the sun deck, offering movement and texture. Planters are filled with a mix of herbs and ornamental plants, including mint, wild oregano, allium, and grasses, creating a rich sensory experience with every step.
The dining zone seems to float in a sea of sedum, reinforcing the idea of nature wrapping around each experience. At the topmost level, built over the elevator shaft, a sun deck offers views of Lake Michigan. Below, a lounge area sits in its shade, perfectly positioned for golden-hour relaxation.
Environmental care is embedded throughout the project. Plantings were chosen for drought tolerance, and water use is minimized through drip irrigation. Materials include sustainably harvested FSC-certified Garapa and Ipe wood, and the green roof system is by LiveRoof. Low-energy LED lighting ensures that the space is as efficient as it is elegant.
The design balances serenity with surprise. A hammock is integrated directly into the decking, suspended above the green roof. It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon nap or casual reading, turning this rooftop into more than just a space to entertain, it’s a place to live.
As daylight fades, the rooftop transforms with the help of low-profile LED lighting. Fixtures are tucked beneath decking edges and within planter boxes, casting a soft, ambient glow that enhances the textures of wood, tile, and foliage. This quiet layer of illumination allows the space to shift seamlessly from day to night, supporting everything from evening dinners to late-night lounging, all while minimizing energy use and preserving skyline views.
Here’s a look at the layout of the rooftop.
This rooftop retreat by dSPACE Studio shows how thoughtful design can elevate outdoor living, literally. With layered materials, lush plantings, sustainable choices, and space to relax or play, it transforms a Lincoln Park rooftop into a private, sky-high sanctuary.