Have you thought about making your unused rooftop space into something more? If so, a private rooftop deck, with a dramatic retractable roof access unit, might just be the way to go. A rooftop deck can add tremendous value to your home by increasing its appeal and resale value. Moreover, a low-profile, retractable roof access system could take that plan to the next level – inviting light and fresh air into the core of your home while allowing for convenient, elegant access to that deck.
To help jump-start the inspiration, here is an in-depth look at a recent roof access system built for a San Francisco family.
The Bernal Heights neighborhood is one of the most desirable in San Francisco, CA, with a wide variety of architectural styles and a reputation for being family-friendly. It’s also a neighborhood where people have put down roots and take pride in their homes.
Achi and his family bought a home in this neighborhood in 2016. From the beginning, they knew they wanted to add more space. Because of the lot’s size and shape, the only place to go was up, which meant adding a third story. Working with their architect, the family also planned for a rooftop deck along with their retractable roof access to take advantage of their magnificent vistas.
Solution – Retractable Roof Access
Designing retractable roof access to that space proved challenging. Options like an outside stairwell, for example, wouldn’t provide the convenience they desired. Moreover, there were height restrictions to satisfy. A retractable roof access system emerged as the best approach, and Rollamatic was a natural choice.
“When we settled on the plan for a retractable glass roof, we incorporated an open stairwell into the interior design that lets the light flow not only into the new 3rd floor of the home, but all the way down into the second floor. What started out as a means of accessing the rooftop transformed into a central piece of the whole remodel,” Achi explained.
We were delighted to work with the customer and architect to design a single-section retractable roof access. It consists of about 80 square feet of glass that lights the interior of the home during the day and provides views of the night sky after sunset. An indoor switch smoothly opens the roof up to the halfway point, permitting both fresh air and people (via the stairwell :)) to pass through.
“It’s rewarding to contribute to a project like this, where our retracting roof is a critical component of unlocking the potential of the property,” shared Dan Roberts, President of Rollamatic.
Result
The homeowner is delighted with the outcome. In addition, Rollamatic recently modified the switch to open and close the unit to be operated by a key. “Our young children found it a little too fun to open and close the roof. Now it’s more under our control,” explained the owner.
The family is enjoying the light, fresh air, ease of access, and uniqueness of this central feature of their expanded home. And now that Autumn is around the corner, they have even more to look forward to.
We Can Help
We love a challenge. Bring us your idea, no matter how complex, simple, small, or big. Our team will work with you to design the perfect retractable roof for your business or home, then guide you every step of the way through the installation.
Contact us today if you have any questions or want to get started.