Rooftop - N. Williamsburg, BK

An apartment with a rooftop garden is a rare find in Brooklyn. Yet, as coveted as an area like this might be, without privacy and a sense of calm, rooftop space can feel less like a retreat and more like just extra square footage to maintain.

So when the owners of this North Williamsburg apartment approached our residential design team to plan a rooftop garden that felt secluded yet still open and natural, we were excited to take on the project. The area provided the perfect setting for the Tula House team to create a balanced, beautiful space in which the owners could relax and recharge.

Enveloped, Not Confined

Inspired by the client’s desire for a calm, natural environment amidst a bustling cityscape, our objective was to create equilibrium between privacy and openness, and to soften harsh, urban edges. The idea was not to exclude the skyline and neighborhood connection entirely, but to develop a soft barrier between the rooftop and the surrounding city — to frame the view rather than compete with it or close it off.

Plant Selection

Using greenery to create natural screens proved to be the perfect way to achieve a sense of protection that doesn’t feel restrictive. Lush but controlled layering adds warmth and color, further enriching and enlivening the space. The plants chosen by the Tula House horticulturists and designers include:

Tall ornamental grasses: These serve to insulate the rooftop. But because they allow light and air into the space thanks to their fluid movement, they don’t feel like an obstruction.

Juniper trees: Trees give the garden a park-like appeal while adding structure. As evergreens, junipers bring rich beauty to the rooftop year-round.

Wisteria vines: More flow and movement are felt in the space thanks to vining wisteria. The stunning late-spring blooms provide a welcome pop of color.

Echinacea: One of the most reliable perennials, echinacea is ideal for rooftops as it loves full sun. The plants’ bright blooms take over when wisteria fades.

Wildflowers: By featuring a selection of wildflowers, the garden takes on a more natural, ever-evolving vibe. Hardy blooms appear in surprising bursts, adding fresh, unexpected moments from spring through fall. 

The Result

A careful balance of privacy and openness makes this rooftop feel protected but not isolated. This project gave the Tula team an ideal opportunity to showcase how plant life can transform a stark, exposed space into a cozy oasis. Our clients love having a secluded, vibrant home garden right in the heart of Brooklyn — a place where they can escape, just above the city bustle.

Design Unique Spaces With Tula Gardens

For over a decade, our team of horticulturists and designers has developed creative gardens uniquely tailored to our clients’ indoor and outdoor spaces. Tula House services continue well beyond installation, as we offer ongoing garden maintenance to ensure your green spaces remain healthy and vibrant for years to come.

We invite you to view a sampling of our residential and commercial projects, and connect with Tula House when you’re ready to begin planning your own transformation.