Rooftop terraces are “hot”

Rooftops terraces are surging in popularity with their chic bars, pools, and magnificent views of a city’s skyline. They have trendy decor, cool guests, and most importantly, a “door policy” that gives them an utterly exclusive feel. Quoting Samir Saab, principal of Prohotel International in an interview with Boutique Design magazine, “It gives you that feeling of going to a place that nobody else can come into. It’s limited to the elevator, to how many people it can accommodate.” Roofs are becoming so popular and desirable that they’ve gone beyond attracting tourists to hosting A-list celebrities and locals willing to pay hefty sums to soak up the sun and ambience.

Redesigning unused roof spaces, from hotels to office buildings, are a significant revenue source. Up in the sky, drink prices seem to have no limits. Add an outstanding view and a $5 beer can climb to $12 or more (served in plastic, no less). Order a martini at the Peninsula’s 23rd floor Pen-Top Bar & Terrace, and you’ll be $20 lighter. “People don’t mind paying the prices if they have a beautiful setting,” said Library Hotel’s co-owner, Guy Heksch. Expensive drinks mean big profits. “On a few occasions, the Gansevoort generated more revenue from the Plunge bar and rooftop events in one day than from its 187 rooms, including once when the hotel was sold out,” said former Guest Relations Manager of the original Gansevoort in New York.