The Sophie Private Roof Terrace
At the recently completed Sophie on the Bayou Bend Luxury Condominium building along Memorial Drive is a private Roof Terrace retreat. Situated adjacent to the Buffalo Bayou ravine, with a backdrop of nature, this 52’ by 58’ roof terrace is a personal garden for a homeowner who loves the arts and enjoys the outdoors.
Working closely with the owner in a span of over two years, garden rooms were created that consist of a color garden with perennials, flowering trees and shrubs, and ornamental grasses; an olive tree grove for quiet reading; and a turf area for the owner’s two dogs and flexible activities. Sculptures from the owner’s personal art collection were placed as focal points throughout the terrace.
Collaboration between the architect, structural engineer, and contractors resulted in a keen understanding of the structural load, wind uplift, drainage, and waterproofing requirements. Raised planters, edging, LiveRoof modules, structural foam, carefully arranged planting areas and pedestal pavers were used to define the various Garden Rooms. The well-composed roof terrace garden looks seemingly effortless.