While many businesses and organizations are using their roof to implement solar technologies and reduce energy costs, others are simply turning to their roof to maximize their space. With real estate becoming ever more precious, particularly in large cities, property owners are looking to their roof for the next expansion & remodel.
Schools are adding a variety of sports-related options to their roofs. In Zhejiang, China, an architect created the building with a quad in the center, but the roof has become a 200 meter running track. Other schools are moving kids’ play areas from the ground up to the roof.
Commercial properties are also creating new uses for their . Of course, most people have seen rooftop swimming pools at various hotels and resorts for years, but now they are adding tennis courts, restaurants and bars, coffee stands, lounges, sky decks, sun decks - virtually any outdoor activity you can think of. The Grand Hyatt Hotel in Denver, Colorado, has recently added a Skycourt — a rooftop jogging track and tennis court.
Developers and tenants are converting multi-family housing roofs to gardens and green spaces in the city, like the 2020 Lawrence property in Denver, Colorado. The 10-story, 231 unit apartment building boasts and “Barks and Rec” area where pets can roam. It also has an AstroTurf field, a fire pit, hot tub and enclosed workout facility, including an amazing infinity pool.
With the advent of Google Earth and overhead photos, many commercial and industrial properties are using their roof top space to advertise. If you’ve ever watched the Tour de France, you’ve probably seen tons of roof top ads as the tour buzzes past. The enduring nature of the photos on Google Earth and other programs means provides for plenty of views.
In short, more and more roofs are doing double duty these days
