Patios, Rooftops & Terrace Design
Philadelphia homes often have outdoor spaces that feel unfinished — rooftops that are too exposed, patios that don’t quite come together, terraces that aren’t being used to their full potential. With thoughtful outdoor living design, these spaces can become natural extensions of the home, creating places to relax, entertain, and spend time outside in a way that feels easy and comfortable.
Rowhouse Growhouse specializes in rooftop garden design in Philadelphia, along with patio design and terrace garden design for city homes. Each project is shaped by how the space will actually be used, with a focus on creating outdoor environments that feel cohesive, functional, and visually grounded.
Outdoor Living Design Services
WE OFFER
INNOVATIVE, STYLISH,
CUSTOM-MADE SHADE SOLUTIONS
AND DROUGHT-HEARTY PLANTS
FOR YOUR ROOFTOPS,
TERRACES, AND SUNNY
BACKYARDS.
"Rowhouse Growhouse was wonderful to work with. They transformed our patio in the sky into a welcoming, comfortable, attractive space. We have spent more time there in the last two weeks than in the 2 years we have lived here. Kristin was supremely professional, listened closely and adapted to our suggestions. We now have a genuine oasis."
— Neil M., Philadelphia
Exterior Design for Urban Living
Outdoor spaces in Philadelphia come with real considerations. Sun exposure, wind, drainage, and layout all play a role in how a space performs over time — whether it’s a rooftop, terrace, or patio.
Rowhouse Growhouse designs urban outdoor spaces that respond to these conditions while maintaining a refined and welcoming aesthetic. This is especially important in roof deck landscaping and urban rooftop gardens, where exposure can be more extreme, but it’s just as relevant for patios and terraces that need structure, shade, and thoughtful layout.
Many outdoor living design projects include:
• Architectural planters and irrigation
• Drought-tolerant plants suited to city environments
• Roof deck privacy screens and wind buffers
• Shade structures and canopies for rooftops, patios, and terraces
• Seating areas designed for relaxation or entertaining
• Discreet enclosures for HVAC units and utilities
When these elements come together thoughtfully, the result is an outdoor space that feels effortless to enjoy.
If you're thinking about improving your rooftop, patio, or terrace, this is a good place to start.
Rooftop Gardens, Patios, and Terraces
Each outdoor space comes with its own mix of advantages and challenges — sometimes an incredible skyline view, sometimes a blazing sun with no shade in sight, and sometimes a layout that simply needs to be more thoughtfully resolved.
A rowhouse roof deck may require carefully selected container plantings that can withstand wind and full sun while still feeling composed and intentional. A terrace may call for layered planting design and privacy screens to create a more comfortable and defined outdoor room.
For homeowners seeking terrace garden design, considered plant selection and layout can transform even a narrow terrace into a lush urban retreat that feels calm, balanced, and complete. A ground-level patio might become a green oasis through thoughtful patio design in Philadelphia, with container plantings, architectural planters, and seating areas that bring structure, softness, and cohesion to the space.
Rowhouse Growhouse designs rooftop gardens, patios, and terraces that respond to the specific conditions of city living while still feeling natural within their surroundings. Many rooftop garden projects also incorporate container gardens, allowing plants to flourish even where traditional soil beds are not possible.
"I love the way Kristin approached my project both visually and logically. She created such a calm and beautifully curated spot for me that I wish I could stay out there all year! The difference between a gardener and a real exterior designer, is truly seen in the way the whole space comes together. I’d highly recommend Rowhouse Growhouse!"
-Patty M
An Urban Garden Right at Home
A well-designed outdoor space offers a different way to experience the city — whether it’s a rooftop garden, a quiet terrace, or a thoughtfully planted patio just outside your door. In Philadelphia, even compact spaces can become places of retreat, from a Center City rooftop with skyline views to a tucked-away patio that feels more private and grounded.
There’s also something quieter that happens in these spaces. Being surrounded by greenery, even in a small way, makes it easier to slow down, reset, and spend a little more time outside — whether that’s morning coffee, an evening glass of wine, or simply a few quiet minutes to yourself. With thoughtful planting, comfortable seating, and considered materials, a rooftop, patio, or terrace becomes a place you naturally return to.
The transformations are often more dramatic than expected — subtle shifts in layout, planting, and materials can completely change how a space feels and functions. See below for before and after transformations. The result is an urban garden right at home — a space that offers a sense of escape while remaining connected to everyday life.
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Our Procedure
Every project begins with a conversation.
Consultation
We start with a complimentary fifteen-minute phone or video consultation to learn about your space, your goals, and what you’re hoping to create.
It’s a relaxed, no-pressure conversation where you can ask questions, explore ideas, and start to envision what’s possible — while making sure we’re the right fit to move forward together.
Site Visit
Next, we schedule a site visit to experience your space in person and better understand how you want it to function day to day.
We assess sunlight, layout, and existing conditions, take measurements, and talk through your goals — so we can begin shaping a design that feels thoughtful, functional, and tailored to your space.
Installation
Once your design is finalized, our team takes care of the installation, bringing every detail together with care and attention.
It’s a smooth, well-managed process where everything is thoughtfully placed and styled — so you can step outside into a space that feels complete, comfortable, and ready to enjoy, right from the very first day.
Let's Create Your Outdoor Retreat
A rooftop, patio, or terrace has the potential to be a quiet place for morning coffee, an evening outside, or a more meditative moment at the end of the day. It might be a space for yoga, or simply somewhere that helps you slow down and reset.
Rowhouse Growhouse works with homeowners throughout Philadelphia to shape outdoor environments that feel natural, comfortable, and connected to the rhythm of the home. Whether it’s a rooftop garden, roof deck landscaping in Philadelphia, or a terrace designed for gathering, these spaces begin to feel like they’ve always belonged.
If you're ready to reimagine your space, we’d love to hear about your project. Let’s start with a simple conversation about your goals and explore what’s possible.