When designing a flat roof, the primary purpose is clear: to protect the building from the elements by ensuring the enclosure is watertight. While this is the main objective of any roof area, using the space for a dual purpose is often overlooked.

A flat roof can be utilised in a variety of ways to add value to a property. As the pitch generally sits between one to two degrees, the opportunities to create a useable space are very achievable.

With land shortages and medium-density living on the rise in urban environments, the ability to increase living space is necessary to improve the quality of life in cityscapes.

Throughout the world, roof spaces have been used in a variety of ways that create value socially, economically and environmentally. From rooftop decks that help maximise outdoor living spaces to roof gardens that can be used to grow food or even roofs that can accommodate solar panels. 


With innovative products such as decking pedestals and roof mounts becoming more popular, roof spaces can be transformed into additional flat spaces for living and enjoying. The creative uses for a flat roof can be endless with the right design.

We have witnessed a rise in green roof specifications on multi-level apartments and commercial buildings in recent years. Green roofs contribute to sustainable values such as combating stormwater runoff, filtering carbon dioxide and improving aesthetics around often grey, concrete environments.