Rooftop Retreat
By JMR Landscaping
The new owner of an Italianate home in East Wilmette envisioned a living and garden space off the third-floor office, utilizing the existing flat roof. However, a structural review revealed that the 1929 building couldn't support the intended design. With the interior renovation nearly complete, avoiding any modifications that would penetrate the roof membrane or add weight was essential. A grid of steel beams was installed within the surrounding walls to address this challenge, creating a ‘floating’ garden with movable elements for easy roof access. Custom corten steel planters filled with ornamental and native plants enhance the aesthetic and act as guardrails. Interior planters cleverly conceal the extensive HVAC system, while walkways are crafted from durable ipe wood tiles. The surrounding low plantings integrate green roof modules, ensuring a vibrant, sustainable outdoor retreat.
