Creating a Rooftop or Backyard Retreat That Works with Your Lifestyle
- Kristin Barrett Brown
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 8
Balancing Beauty, Function, and Ease within your Philadelphia Outdoor Space
For so many busy Philadelphians, outdoor space is an untapped opportunity—a place with true potential to serve as a retreat, an entertainment hub, or even a functional workspace. But designing a rooftop or backyard that balances style, practicality, and ease of maintenance can feel overwhelming.
People always ask me “How do I maximize a small space in a Philadelphia row home?”, “What plants will actually survive on a rooftop?”, and “How do I make my outdoor space feel cohesive rather than pieced together?” With so many options, it's easy to get stuck in the planning phase, and then before you know it, the season has slipped away.
Thankfully, we have proven strategies I'd like to share that make it easier to create a seamless, inviting outdoor space—without taking up all your time, and it’s so worthwhile. To me, outdoor space can be life changing, and I want that for you!
Making the Most of a Small Footprint
When square footage is limited, design decisions become even more important. Thoughtful layouts ensure that a space doesn’t just look good but also functions well for multiple needs, whether that’s hosting gatherings, relaxing with family, working out, or carving out a quiet solitary moment.
A few key things to consider when working with a smaller outdoor space:
Smart Layouts: Creating zones for different activities—like lounging, dining, and work—without feeling overcrowded.
Multi-Use Furniture: Built-in benches, foldable tables, or planters that double as dividers help get the most out of every inch.
Strategic Greenery: Vertical gardens and potted plants provide lushness without taking up valuable space.
For those of you who are unsure where to begin, working with a designer experienced in small-space maximization can help bring everything together in a way that feels both intentional, effortless, and reflective of your personal style.
Adding Low Maintenance Greenery
Incorporating plants into a rooftop or backyard can soften the space, add privacy, and create a more peaceful, shaded environment. But without the right plant choices, maintenance can quickly become overwhelming.
A few ways to keep greenery stress-free:
Choose Climate-Smart Plants: Selecting varieties that thrive in Philadelphia’s seasonal shifts means less effort spent on upkeep. The right designer will carefully choose a variety of colors and textures to thrive throughout the seasons, many of which are drought-resistant. No one needs to know how easy the upkeep is!
Use Automated Irrigation: Drip irrigation make plant care almost effortless, and is a real necessity on Philly rooftops.
Design for Longevity: Opting for hardy perennials and native plants ensures a garden that lasts year after year with little effort, and it's so much better for the environment to boot.
If plant care isn’t in your skill set (yet), a well-planned, low-maintenance planting scheme can make it easy to enjoy greenery without constant work.
Creating a Cohesive Look & Feel
Beyond the clever use of maximizing a space, I feel a cohesive look is one of the most important features of a well designed space- both indoors and outdoors. In order for a place to be absolutely
relaxing and enjoyable, it must gel together, and have a natural flow for guests and owners alike.
Here are some thoughts on making your space feel cohesive. A holistic approach—one that considers color, materials, and textures—helps create a smooth, inviting flow throughout the space.
Some elements that contribute to a unified design:
Consistent Color Palette: Using a mix of materials and fabrics in complementary shades prevents a disjointed look.
Thoughtful Material Choices: Weather-resistant wood, metals, and textiles designed for outdoor use ensure both durability and aesthetics. Make sure to mix it up, but keep an element, like color to join it all together.
Attention to Detail: The small touches—like cohesive lighting, stylish planters, and well-placed accents—bring everything together.
Bringing in someone with an eye for composition and detail can make a noticeable difference in how natural and polished a space feels.
Staying Current: Design Trend for 2025: Designing for Joy!
I'm a big believer in using classic materials and avoiding trendy fashions in decor, however I totally get behind this trend! I'm pleased to say that incorporating joy into design has always been a part of both my personal and professional life.. There is nothing better than designing the little things (and the big things too) you love into your everyday life. Before you know it, you'll be walking out to your outdoor space and thinking "How is this even my life?" Just wait!
One of the biggest design shifts for 2025 is this focus on joyful spaces—areas designed to uplift, restore, and inspire. More homeowners are looking beyond aesthetics, prioritizing outdoor areas that support wellness, relaxation, and creativity. We've all learned a lot from the pandemic. Let's embrace the good things!
Ideas for incorporating this trend:
Meditation & Yoga Corners: A quiet space for mindfulness, reflection, or gentle movement.
Cozy Reading Nooks: A comfortable lounge spot surrounded by plants and soft lighting.
Container Gardens: A beautiful yet easy-to-maintain setup for fresh herbs, flowers, or veggies.
Outdoor Workspaces: A flexible, shaded spot that brings in fresh air and natural light while working from home.
Designing with daily well-being in mind helps transform an outdoor space from simply “nice to have” into an essential, and truly joyful part of everyday life.
Bringing It All Together
A well-designed rooftop or backyard isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating a space that fits your lifestyle, enhances your home, and is easy to maintain. Whether it’s maximizing space, selecting durable greenery, or ensuring a seamless, high-end aesthetic, thoughtful planning makes all the difference!
For those looking for guidance in bringing everything together, working with an experienced designer can simplify the process and ensure a result that feels both effortless and beautifully curated.
If you're ready to take the next steps to create an outdoor space you love, book now for a
complimentary 15 minute chat to find out how we can help.
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