Outdoor spaces: roof terraces and balconies

Roof terraces and balconies can provide outdoor spaces and play areas. These areas will require appropriate guarding and an external fire-escape staircase may be required depending on the circumstances.

Fuji Montessori Kindergarten, Tokyo, Japan.

Design features

• The entire roof of the setting forms a continuous ring of roof terrace play space.
• Roof terrace provides views down into the building, affords direct contact with mature trees, and provides slides and steps down from the roof to ground level.

Realt Beag, Ballyfermot, Dublin.

Design features

• Play area provided at first-floor level with direct access to internal children’s room.
• Covered area providing shelter and shade.
• The retractable awning can be rolled back when not needed.
• The fire escape to the ground level opens straight off the roof garden, ensuring a safe exit in case of an emergency.

Design tip

• If installing a retractable awning ensure it is waterproof, allows for rainwater to run off and the surface beneath is drained appropriately.
• The addition of tubs for planting would enhance children’s experience of nature.