10 Rooftop Deck Decorating Ideas to Make Your Space Amazing

Rooftop decks offer excellent opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. But if you’re just now starting to think about what you want from your rooftop deck, you might be a little overwhelmed. What is the purpose of your deck and how do you decide on rooftop deck decorating ideas?

To help point you in the right direction, we’ve laid out some of our favorite ways to decorate a rooftop deck. Take a look below and feel free to check out our project gallery for more inspiration.

What Types of Rooftop Decks are There? 

A rooftop deck is a platform, usually on the roof of a building, that provides outdoor space for relaxing or entertaining. Rooftop decks can be found on both residential and commercial properties. Different types of rooftop decks are available to serve different purposes. Some are better suited for private gatherings, while others make great places for public events. Here are a few examples of where you'll likely find rooftop decks:

• Hotels - Rooftop decks at hotels can be used for private gatherings, cocktails, or simply enjoying the stunning views.
• Apartment Living - Rooftop decks at apartments can be used for barbecues, dog parks, or relaxing in the sun.
• Private Houses - For those lucky enough to have a private house with a rooftop deck, the sky’s the limit! This is your own personal oasis to enjoy as you please (just make sure you always review code requirements before building your new rooftop deck).
• Restaurants: Restaurants interested in fresher ingredients can leverage a rooftop deck to cultivate and grow vegetables and fruits.
• Workspaces: Rooftop decks at corporate headquarters can be used as a secondary workspace or as a spot for mid-day breaks and relaxation.

What Are the Best Rooftop Deck Decorating Ideas?

Decorating a rooftop deck can be a challenge—after all, you want to make the most of your outdoor space while still respecting the rules and regulations of your building. However, with a bit of creativity, you can turn your rooftop deck into a beautiful space that incorporates some biophilic design principles.

Biophilic design is an approach to architecture that seeks to connect people with nature. The goal is to create buildings and environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also support the health and well-being of occupants.

There are several key principles of biophilic design:

• Connecting with nature: incorporating natural elements into the built environment, such as plants, water features, and views of nature.
• Promoting a sense of place: creating spaces that evoke a strong sense of location and identity.
• Supporting the human-nature connection: providing opportunities for people to interact with nature in positive ways.
• Enhancing biophysical comfort: using natural ventilation, daylighting, and other strategies to create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

Aside from biophilic design principles, here are some of our favorite ways to create a unique rooftop deck experience:

1. Gardens – A garden is a great way to bring some life to your rooftop deck. Add some potted plants or even a small vegetable garden for a touch of nature.
2. TVs – If you want to spend some time on your deck with a good movie or TV show, make sure to add a good television or projector. You can either mount it on the wall or get a freestanding unit.
3. Chairs – comfortable chairs are essential for any deck, but they’re vital on a rooftop deck where you’ll want to spend hours relaxing in the sun. Choose from lounge chairs, Adirondack chairs, or any other type that suits your style.
4. Bars – A bar is an excellent addition to any deck, but it’s especially perfect for a rooftop deck. If you have enough space, you can add a full bar, finished off with comfortable seating and added big screens for entertainment.
5. Tables – A table is necessary for any deck, but it’s especially important on a rooftop deck where you’ll want to enjoy meals outdoors. Mix it up with a handful of dining tables, coffee tables, and side tables. This is even more vital if our rooftop deck will be a hot spot for cocktails and appetizers.
6. Art – Adding some art to your rooftop deck will give it personality and make it feel like your own personal oasis. Hang paintings, sculptures, or Edison-style bulbs.
7. Hammocks – A hammock is a perfect addition to any deck, but it’s especially nice on a rooftop deck where you can enjoy the views.
8. Pools – If you have the space, a pool is a great way to cool off on a hot day. Adding a pool to your rooftop deck will make it the ultimate party spot.
9. BBQs – A BBQ is essential for any deck, but it’s especially perfect for a rooftop deck where you can cook and entertain at the same time. 
10. Flowers – Flowers are a great way to add color and life to your rooftop deck. Plant them in pots or on the ground or house them in large wooden containers.

Want more rooftop deck decorating ideas?

At Bison, we help people all across the country create a whimsical and inviting rooftop deck environment. From hotels to workspaces to community living, we're rooftop deck pros. If you want more ideas, inspiration, or examples of awe-inspiring rooftop decks, check out our project gallery.