Designing a rooftop deck or pergola in Chicago is an exciting way to expand your living space and create a closer connection to the outdoors. But before we dive into finishes, furnishings, and plantings, it’s crucial to ensure that every detail is built on a safe, code-compliant foundation.
Read MoreWe’re big plant people here at Rooftopia — no surprise there! This holiday season, we’ve gathered a few of our favorite nature-inspired gifts to share with you. Whether you’re shopping for a devoted gardener, an outdoor nature lover, a birding enthusiast, an urban design admirer, or someone who simply enjoys bringing a little green into their home, this guide is full of thoughtful ideas to inspire your gift-giving.
Read MoreIf you’ve ever spotted a striking shrub or small tree with fuzzy branches and cone-shaped clusters of deep red berries along a Chicago roadway or hillside, you’ve likely encountered the Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina). This hardy native brings bold texture, brilliant fall color, and incredible ecological benefits to Midwestern landscapes—proving that beauty and resilience can go hand in hand.
Read MoreRooftopia is proud to be Chicago’s premier certified Renson dealer, bringing cutting-edge design and craftsmanship to your outdoor spaces. Our passion for creating luxurious, highly personalized environments shines through every project—whether it’s a dramatic rooftop lounge or a serene backyard retreat. With Renson pergolas and Rooftopia’s signature design expertise, you’ll experience the perfect balance of elegance, comfort, and all-season versatility.
Read MoreAs autumn settles in and many summer blooms fade, asters step up to keep the garden alive with color. These hardy, star-shaped flowers bring cheerful purples, pinks, blues, and whites to the landscape just when you think the season is winding down. Even better — asters are native powerhouses that support pollinators, add texture, and return year after year with very little fuss.
Read MoreIf you're looking to enhance your landscape or rooftop deck with beauty, biodiversity, and year-round interest, consider planting a Serviceberry—our latest Illinois Native Plant of the Month. Also known as Juneberry, Shadbush, or Saskatoon depending on the region and species, Serviceberry is a multi-season standout that benefits both people and pollinators. This adaptable small tree or large shrub typically grows 15 to 25 feet tall, making it well-suited for a range of garden sizes and urban environments.
Read MoreIf you’re considering a new deck for your home in Chicago, you’ve likely come across multiple material options—wood, composite (like Trex), and porcelain pavers. Each has its own pros, cons, costs, and maintenance needs. Choosing the right decking material depends on your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Let’s break it down and see what our top recommendation is!
Read MoreThe Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is a must-have for homeowners looking to add beauty, shade, and sustainability to their landscape. Fast-growing and highly adaptable, it thrives in city settings, providing cooling shade, cleaner air, and natural stormwater control.
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