All-Weather Rooftop Bars Hit New Heights

More and more South Australian hotels are creating rooftop bars that can be enjoyed by patrons all year round, regardless of the weather.

But rooftop bar designs need to offer more than just a great view.

From innovative structural elements to clever design choices, local hotels are creating versatile bars that can withstand scorching heat, pouring rain, or freezing cold.

One approach worth serious consideration is to work with the elements, not against them.

That means choosing furniture and materials that doesn’t just weather well, the weathering actually becomes part of the look and feel. In other words, the wear and tear becomes part of the overall effect.

For example, choose timber, metal coatings and other finishes that create a rust effect, while still maintaining strength form and function.

FURNITURE AND DECOR

The furniture and furnishings you choose for your rooftop bar play a significant role in creating atmosphere.

• Don't be afraid to get creative with your decor choices, as they can be a great way to make your rooftop bar stand out from the competition.

• For many venues, the goal is to create a space that is visually appealing and Instagramworthy, as this will attract more customers and generate buzz.

• But it’s important to consider both style and functionality. Opt for materials that are durable and weather-resistant, as your rooftop bar will be exposed to the elements. Metal, hardwoods, outdoor grade finishes that are UV resistant and polyethylene are popular choices for outdoor furniture due to their durability and resistance to fading and weathering.

• For a more laid-back atmosphere, you may choose to incorporate more comfortable seating options, such as plush sofas and oversized lounge chairs.

• On the other hand, if your target audience is looking for a lively social scene, you might opt for high-top tables and bar stools to encourage mingling and interaction among guests.

• Additionally, consider the comfort of your guests. Choose seating options that suit your target demographic. For older patrons, they need to be ergonomic and provide ample back support, while young crowds might be comfortable sitting on a wooden box!

MAXIMISING SPACE

Rooftop bars often come with limited space, making it crucial to maximise every inch available.

Consider how you can make the most of the available square metres, while still providing comfortable seating and circulation areas for your guests.

• One effective way to maximise space is by utilising multifunctional furniture. Look for pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as benches with built-in storage or tables that can be easily folded and stacked when not in use.

• Additionally, consider the layout of your bar. By positioning it in a central location, you can create a focal point that encourages social interaction and minimises congestion.

• But many of the top bars in SA have bars set to the side, with access to back areas, that also maximise the space for patrons.

• Incorporating different floor levels and seating areas can add visual interest and create a sense of depth, making your bar feel larger than it actually is.

• To optimise the layout of your rooftop bar, it's essential to carefully plan the flow of traffic. Ensure that there is enough space for guests to move comfortably between seating areas, the bar, and other amenities. Avoid bottlenecks and create clear pathways by strategically placing furniture and considering the natural flow of foot traffic.

Sol Rooftop

GO GREEN

For city pubs, one of the key advantages of a rooftop bar is the opportunity to create an oasis in the midst of the concrete jungle. Incorporating greenery and outdoor elements not only adds visual appeal but also helps to create a connection with nature, providing a calming atmosphere for your guests.

Whether you have a small rooftop or a sprawling space, there are numerous ways to incorporate greenery into your plans.

• Firstly, consider vertical gardens or living walls. These can be attached to existing structures or incorporated as standalone features, adding a burst of colour and texture to your rooftop bar.

• Vertical gardens not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also help to regulate temperature.

• Additionally, potted plants and planter boxes can be strategically placed throughout the space, influencing the flow of traffic and creating areas of privacy.

• Opt for low-maintenance plants that thrive in outdoor conditions and require minimal watering and care.

• In addition to greenery, consider incorporating other outdoor elements such as water features or fire pits.

LIGHTING AND AMBIANCE

Lighting sets the mood and can highlight architectural features or stunning views.

As with any other part of your hotel, it also serves practical purposes that are critical to the safety of patrons and your staff.

• Functional lighting refers to the lighting that serves a specific purpose, such as illuminating pathways or providing task lighting at the bar area. LED strip lights are a popular choice for functional lighting as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and can be easily installed. Additionally, consider incorporating dimmable lights that allow you to adjust the brightness to create different moods throughout the day and evening.

• Decorative lighting, on the other hand, adds aesthetic appeal and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. String lights, lanterns, and pendant lights are popular choices for decorative lighting in rooftop settings. They can be hung from pergolas, umbrellas or overhead structures. Additionally, consider incorporating lighting fixtures that highlight architectural features or provide accent lighting to specific areas, such as water features or greenery.

THE HIGH - TECH ROOFTOP

• Big screen TVs for music videos or live sport.

• Touch-screen ordering systems or mobile apps that allow customers to browse the menu, place orders, and make payments directly from their smartphones.

• Smart sensors and automated systems for lighting, temperature control, and irrigation can help save energy and reduce operational costs.

2KW

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS FOR ROOFTOP BARS

Rooftop bars come with a range safety considerations that must be addressed to provide a safe environment for both patrons and staff.

• It’s essential to comply with local building codes and regulations. These codes often include requirements for railing height, fire safety, emergency exits and load-bearing capacity. Working closely with a professional architect or engineer can help ensure that your bar meets all necessary safety standards.

• Consider the placement and security of your furniture and decor. Secure any loose or movable items to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds or accidentally falling over.

• Use non-slip materials for flooring to prevent accidents, especially when wet from rain or spills.

• Proper lighting and clear signage can also help prevent trips and falls, especially after dark.

• Conduct regular safety training sessions and ensure that your staff members are well-versed in handling emergency situations.

STOPPING NOISE LEAKAGE

Noise leakage can be a common issue for rooftop bars, especially in densely populated areas. It is important to address this concern to ensure a good experience for your guests and mitigate potential noise-related complaints.

• Consider incorporating soundabsorbing panels or tiles.

• Direct noise away from residential areas.

• Use directional speakers.

• Additionally, strategically placed barriers such as planters, green walls, or trellises can act as sound barriers, helping to contain noise.

• It's also important to be mindful of noise levels during live performances or events. Consider implementing sound limiters or setting noise curfews to ensure that noise levels remain within acceptable limits.

WIND AND RAIN

Being exposed to the elements is one of the most frequent complaints made by patrons. If people freeze in winter or swelter in summer, they won’t be quick to return.

Ideas to keep out the wind and rain:

• Incorporate windbreaks. These can be in the form of glass solid walls, or even landscaping elements such as hedges or green walls to create a sheltered space or reduce wind speed

• Retractable awnings

• Umbrellas for temporary coverage during rain showers

• Pergolas or covered seating areas that provide permanent rain protection.

• Double check that your rooftop plans incorporate proper drainage to prevent water pooling and potential damage. You could even consider incorporating rainwater harvesting systems that can collect and repurpose rainwater for irrigation or other uses within your rooftop bar.

THE LAST WORD

With so many things to consider, it pays to get professional advice.

Rooftop bars can require significant investment and simple mistakes – such as not choosing tables and chairs that allow for water run-off –can lead to expensive remediation.

Likewise, your budget needs to incorporate recurring maintenance so that fixtures and furniture are kept in peak condition for as long as possible. Your future forecasting will also need to factor in replacement costs and when these will occur.

But when all of the serious issues have been considered, don’t forget that rooftop bars are meant to be fun!