A Terrace Inspired by Music
The owner of this 290 sf penthouse terrace came to us for a refresh. Looking for an informal, relaxed escape and connection to nature, we were specifically asked to provide a maintenance-free option to the tired and browning live cedars.
The starting point of the design was the client’s preference for a Classic style. And, as we learned in the early stages of the project, the owner was a classical musician.
A cream-coloured porcelain tiles with a darker border evokes the classical terraces of Italy. The use of rectangular tiles gives the space a contemporary flavour. A diagonal tile layout enlarges the sense of space by leading the eye to the building in the background.
The idea of musical notes and a score provided inspiration for the planting design. A feeling of rhythm and flow is suggested by alternating the shape of the plant containers between rectangular and round columnar shapes, and the horizontal grooves of the rectangle containers reference the lines of a musical staff.
The concept is further developed with the planting. Faux cedars evoke the stable presence of musical “whole notes,” anchoring the design and, at the same time, helping to mitigate the near-constant breezes experienced near the top of the building. Between the cedars, the shifting zephyrs move the tall grasses in endlessly changing arpeggios.
A customized decorative panel mounted over the building-installed translucent glass privacy panel creates a delightful and personal sense of privacy from the neighbouring outdoor space.
The result of the redesign is a terrace that is more beautiful, more comfortable, and lovely from both inside and outside in all seasons.
This terrace is truly personalized to the interests and needs of the Owner, starting from their personal sense of style.
Specifications
· Location: Uptown Toronto
· Level Above Street: 21st floor
· Surface Area: 289 Sq. ft.
· Design Tier: Essential
· Design-Builder: Garden Connections Inc.
· Year Renovated: 2022
· Activity Zones: 3
Materials and Components:
· Porcelain tile
· Loose pebbles
· LED in-deck lighting with WiFi Controls
· Faux plantings in fibreglass and polyethylene containers
· Customized decorative panel
· Dining chairs and table, lounge chairs and side tables