Cool haven

Using rooftop space allows architects to consider ambitious options for outdoor living, even when the house is in an urban conservation area.

This roof terrace is a case in point. It sits above a three-storey extension at the rear of a 1920s colonial terraced house. The front elevation has protected status, but the architect had permission to develop an extension at the rear, including a roof terrace and pool.

Maria Arango of Ong + Ong Architects envisaged the roof terrace as a welcome retreat for the homeowners. The new roof was divided into an upper and lower deck, to moderate its long, thin proportions and create distinct zones.

Arango then installed a pool with a pebble surround, and inset a stone planter box for shade and visual interest. Simple materials from local sources were chosen.

"The use of stone, timber and bamboo is a tropical look that is very common in the region," says Arango.

"The materials are in keeping with those used to build the original colonial home, and complement the extension's grey-and-white interior colour scheme."

As the terrace is in a busy city area, privacy was important. A tall bamboo hedge was planted to screen the upper deck, and a mature 3m-high frangipani tree planted for shading. Timber fencing, selected to match fences on neighbouring terraces, helps to preserve the roofscape's visual continuity.