Why the Roof-Deck Craze is catching on in Boston
A while ago, people needed to know someone who knew someone who had a roof deck with breath-taking views of the city of Boston. The scenario has since changed with the Inspection Services Department counting 2,500 decks on office and residential buildings, as well as small multi-unit and single-family homes. In the past, most buildings were set up without roofs and those that were lucky to have them had rugged staircases with heavy latches. What's more, you had to schlep a chair to the roof and count yourself lucky if the crate of beer arrived in one piece. A roof deck was not part of the building's amenity package. Thus, it did not feature contemporary lighting, trellis, or a kitchen.
Exciting Features of Modern Roof Decks
The roof deck craze has hit Boston with most spaces now fitted with swimming pools, music systems, wolf grills, outdoor flat-screen, ice makers, lawns, and misting stations. In fact, with the ever-growing demands of the millennials and new Bostonians, most decks are built on spaces as large as 3,000 square feet. Some buildings feature two roof decks- one on the main roof and another on the lower floor.
The Cost of Roof Decks
While the city does not have comparative data from the past years, building inspectors attest to a surge of the fixture in the recent times; as most inspection jobs involve roof decks. Upscale buildings now feature trendy roof decks with café tables and yoga spaces. Of course, the costs of erecting these areas are as high as putting up condos.
Prices soar as high as $ 250,000 because you need to engage professionals like structural engineers, electricians, florists, interior designers, builders, not to mention the additional cost of bringing up gas and water and installing an eco-friendly fire pit. Though most people don't use the spaces as much, the escalating prices of condos and other housing alternatives make the roof decks excellent additions that soften the blow.
Gardening on Roof Decks
Apart from the roof decks providing a great entertainment feature, some people have taken to using the space for other purposes like planting trees. Federal Realty in Somerville, for example, wants to allot personal gardening plots to the building's deck. As such, residents eager to grow their vegetables get to take advantage of such spaces. For some people, however, gardening may not be as forthcoming with some residents having their views interrupted by neighbors who plant trees on their roofs. Additionally, while great deals of residents may sign up to gardening, most of them may not be willing put in the effort that comes with the activity. It creates an unsightly feature of dead plants on roof decks.
While the swimming pools in the roof decks are specially designed for humans, pets also get to enjoy these unique amenities. Some roof decks come installed with on-site pet spas to bath your furry pals.
Popular Roof Decks in Boston
The Sinclair
The Cambridge-side spot provides a great getaway for your family. The roof deck features a waffle bar, a vast range of delicious entrees, and small plates. Its cocktail, beer, and wine selections will keep you entertained for hours.
Pier6 Boston
Apart from its vast deck space, the roof deck provides panoramic views of Boston City. It makes the perfect spot to enjoy a warm afternoon or evening with friends and family. The restaurant provides New England seafood dishes, filet mignon, pasta and seafood paella.
Roof Deck Bars
The Colonnade Hotel
The wicker lounge chairs and curtained cabanas of this spectacular roof deck give the illusion of visiting the tropical without leaving Back Bay. Colonnade Hotel not only makes a perfect after-work spot for the 9-5 working class but also great weekend getaway. You get to enjoy seasoned cocktails, light snacking by the poolside, and rotating craft brews.
The Theatre District
Located in the Theatre District's seven-story building, this 16,000 square foot roof deck was revamped to feature a bigger and sleeker bar space. It now features an entrance, so you don't have to walk past people splashing around in the pool. The high-end menu features Boston's favorite cocktails, including the Boston Common Cucumber and snacks like charcuterie and the tuna tartar tacos.