Traditional penthouse rooftop garden design often struggles to create that sense of natural connection, but the outcome of this project executes it brilliantly. When you are in the space, it is easy to forget just how high above ground you really are…if it wasn’t for the breathtaking view to remind you.
From Apartment Living to Garden Sanctuary
The homeowners had just moved from a large residential property to this apartment and were enjoying the benefits of apartment living but lamented the loss of their garden from the move. Creating a design that converted their penthouse paved rooftop into a luxury garden was a priority. They wanted a space that would recapture the feeling of their former garden whilst embracing their new coastal lifestyle. The challenge was to transform an exposed, functional rooftop into a layered, intimate garden that felt both protected and connected to the spectacular surroundings.
Located in Queenscliff, the property sits in one of Sydney’s most sought-after coastal locations, positioned perfectly between two of the Northern Beaches’ most beautiful stretches of sand. The elevated position offered uninterrupted ocean views but also meant exposure to coastal winds and the practical constraints of rooftop construction, including weight limitations and waterproofing requirements.
Designing for Elevation and Exposure
The Landart team has successfully designed and built a stunning penthouse rooftop garden that incorporates a pool, green roof elements, outdoor entertaining and outdoor kitchen, boardwalks, golf green and more. Each element was carefully positioned to maximise the extraordinary views whilst creating distinct zones for relaxation, dining, and recreation. The boardwalks weave through the space, creating pathways that guide movement and define different areas without the need for solid barriers that would interrupt sightlines.
The green roof elements play a practical role in insulation and stormwater management whilst adding layers of planting that soften the hard edges typical of rooftop spaces. The pool provides a focal point for summer entertaining, whilst the outdoor kitchen allows for seamless alfresco dining with the ocean as a backdrop. For the homeowners who enjoy golf, the putting green offers a unique recreational feature rarely seen in apartment living.
The result is a sophisticated rooftop sanctuary that feels grounded despite its elevated position—a space where the homeowners can enjoy their morning coffee surrounded by greenery, entertain friends with the coastline stretching out before them, and experience the garden lifestyle they thought they’d left behind. This penthouse rooftop garden design proves that with thoughtful planning and expertise, even the most challenging sites can be transformed into something beautiful.