We love outdoor space. We love grilling, sipping cocktails and playing games of skill. We think that everyone deserves a little bit of room where they can bask in the sun or cower beneath an umbrella depending on their tendency to gracefully absorb those rays or to crisp like a roasted chicken (oh how I burn). That is why we have paid some extra attention to the Avant Garage project’s ample roof space.

As you probably know by now, the Avant Garage homes share the small private section of Memphis Street on which they will be built with a fairly large warehouse. This warehouse was recently purchased and will soon be renovated as a residential building, adding to the vibrancy and value of the neighborhood. Unfortunately, this does not change the fact that it partially shades the Avant Garage roofs. That shading is just enough to make solar an iffy proposition, and we aren’t big on iffy propositions (at least not ones that might cost you extra money). So, we now have a large and relatively empty roof to work with. What better use for that space than a roof deck?

The roof deck we have designed for this project includes simple concrete pavers and a beautiful green roof mixed to the proportions of your choice. The base option (which is included) features the smallest amount of deck space with upgrades to increase that area as wanted. The more green roof you preserve, the better your storm water management. The more decking material you add, the better your parties. We leave it to you to strike the balance.

Of course, the most interesting part of a roof deck as simple as this one has got to be the view, and these decks will definitely have it. From the top of these homes you will have an excellent view of the city skyline and most of the surrounding neighborhood. To prove it, we borrowed a lift and jacked me up 35′ in the air to have a look. Here is a video to prove it. (This video also demonstrates that I was born without an appropriate level of self-consciousness, but hopefully you will be able to focus on the view)

We will be adding some additional customization options for the roof decks in the near future, but for now, why not try customizing your own Avant Garage home (and roof). It will also give you a chance to try to figure out why in the world I would name our roof deck options after types of boats (or ships).

As always, let us know what you think in the comments. Are the decks and green roofs a good addition to the project? What size deck do you think will be the most popular? What options would you like to see for these roof spaces? How’s the view?