Office roof terrace design: Outdoor spaces that inspire

The office is no longer just a place to work, it is a space to connect, recharge and inspire. As businesses, landlords and developers look to elevate the modern office experience, roof terraces have emerged as one of the most sought-after design features.

These elevated outdoor areas offer more than just impressive views, they provide valuable space for informal meetings, socialising, quiet focus and much-needed breaks in the fresh air.

In this blog, we will explore why office roof terrace design is rising in popularity, the benefits it brings to both people and the property and how thoughtful planning can turn any rooftop into a dynamic and functional space.

Why office roof terraces are becoming a must-have

As expectations around workplace design continue to evolve, businesses and developers are rethinking how to make the most of every square metre, and rooftops are now prime real estate.

An office roof terrace is no longer considered a luxury, it is quickly becoming a strategic asset that supports employee wellbeing, fosters collaboration and enhances the overall appeal of a building.

In a competitive market, companies are using outdoor spaces to:

• Attract new employees
• Retain top talent

While landlords and developers are leveraging roof terraces to:

• Boost rental value
• Enhance resale value 

With hybrid working, wellness initiatives and flexible office design shaping the future of work, roof terraces offer a smart, sustainable way to add usable, inspiring space, without expanding the building footprint.

What’s driving demand for roof terraces in the workplace?

Several key trends are fuelling the rise of roof terraces as a desirable feature in modern office design. As workplaces adapt to new ways of working, outdoor spaces are becoming essential for both function and wellbeing. Here’s why demand is growing:

1. Employee wellbeing and mental health

Access to outdoor space has proven to reduce stress, improve mood and support overall wellbeing. As companies place greater emphasis on mental health, roof terraces offer a practical, nature-connected solution.

2. Hybrid and flexible work models

With the shift toward hybrid working, office spaces are being reimagined to be more than just desks. Roof terraces create flexible zones for informal meetings, solo work or recharging between tasks.

3. Talent attraction and retention

A well-designed roof terrace can be a standout feature that sets a company apart. It reflects a commitment to workplace experience and helps create an environment people genuinely want to spend time in.

4. Maximising underused space

In dense urban areas, space is limited, and rooftops are often underutilised. Converting them into usable outdoor areas increases a building’s functionality and overall value.

5. Sustainability and biophilic design

Planted terraces support biodiversity, reduce heat gain and align with ESG goals. They also reflect growing interest in biophilic design, connecting people with nature in the built environment.

Benefits of a well-designed office roof terrace

A thoughtfully designed office roof terrace offers more than just outdoor seating. It can transform the way a workplace functions and feels. It can serve as a quiet spot for focused work or as a vibrant space for team lunches. The right design delivers lasting value across multiple levels:

• Boosts employee wellbeing and productivity: Natural light, fresh air and greenery have a proven impact on mood, mental health and focus. Providing access to outdoor space helps reduce stress, encourage movement and improve overall job satisfaction.
• Adds value to the property: A roof terrace enhances a building’s marketability, particularly in competitive urban areas. For landlords and developers, it can increase rental yields and appeal to high-value tenants.
• Encourages informal meetings and social interaction: Roof terraces act as natural extensions of the office, supporting impromptu conversations, casual meetings and social events that help foster stronger team connections and company culture.

Maximising urban space with smart roof terrace design

In dense city environments, like London, where ground-level space is scarce, rooftops offer untapped potential. A smart roof terrace design allows developers and employers to transform unused space into valuable, multi-functional environments.

Whether it is a quiet retreat or a dynamic event area, rooftop spaces help maximise usability and flexibility in ways that benefit both the building and its occupants.

Key considerations for designing an office roof terrace

Creating a safe, functional and lasting terrace means going beyond just aesthetics. Successful roof terrace design begins with practical planning.

Key considerations include:

• Structural load capacity: Ensuring your roof can safely support decking, plants, furniture and foot traffic.
• Zoning and space planning: Dividing areas for relaxation, work and movement.
• Safe, convenient access: Ensuring you can gain access to all areas of the roof terrace system for maintenance.
• Weather protection: From sun, wind and rain, using weather-resistant materials.
• Privacy and acoustics: Especially in overlooked or noisy urban settings.

These details ensure your terrace is usable all year round and compliant with building regulations.

Bringing nature to the roof: Incorporating plants and greenery

Integrating greenery into your roof terrace design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also supports sustainability, biodiversity and wellbeing. Raaft’s Planterline planter systems make it easy to introduce greenery with style, precision and structural performance.

Including features like integrated planters helps soften hard landscaping and adds structure, privacy and seasonal interest to your roof terrace. You can create natural zoning, define seating areas and even introduce pollinator-friendly species to support local ecosystems.

Choosing the right materials: Why Raaft’s solutions stand out

Material selection is a critical part of any successful roof terrace design, especially in high-traffic, exposed environments like commercial rooftops.

At Raaft, our systems are engineered specifically for rooftop use, combining technical performance with architectural elegance.

Built for roof terraces

Our product range includes:

• Adjustable pedestal systems: For perfect levelling on uneven surfaces, allowing you to install decking or paving with excellent drainage and no structural compromise.
• Modular decking and paving: Durable, slip-resistant and easy to maintain. Our systems work with a wide range of finishes to suit any aesthetic.
• Fire-rated solutions: Safety is key. We offer Class A fire-rated materials, fully compliant with building regulations for rooftop applications.
• Integrated planter systems: Lightweight but structurally strong steel planters in straight, curved or bespoke forms, which are ideal for bringing greenery into your office rooftop terrace. 

Designed for performance and simplicity

All Raaft roof terrace systems are:

• Quick to install with minimal fixings
• Engineered for durability in all weather conditions
• Visually cohesive, allowing designers to create seamless and high-end finishes 

Whether you are building an informal meeting area or a high-traffic breakout zone, Raaft’s precision-built systems provide the foundation for roof terraces that last.

Roof terrace design that works

A well-executed roof terrace design transforms underused rooftops into valuable outdoor spaces that elevate wellbeing, boost property appeal and support modern workplace needs.

Whether you are creating a place to relax, collaborate or host events, thoughtful design, combined with the right materials, ensures long-term performance and impact.

At Raaft, we specialise in systems built for rooftop environments, helping architects, developers and designers bring rooftop visions to life.

Ready to design a rooftop that works as hard as the people who use it? Explore our full range of roof terrace solutions.