Babylon Chicago — Fulton Market Panorama: A Room with a View

by Heather Prince

The Brief

Editor’s Preface:

Babylon Chicago begins an interesting series of stories about elevated gardens, sometimes far from the pedestrian eye. The roots of this series go back to the 2022 Design Tour in Chicago. There, I had an interesting conversation with a long-time ILCA member about the challenges he had getting specimen trees to a hidden roof deck on a 40+ story roof garden. Almost 12 months to the date of that conversation, I am pleased to introduce this feature series. RR

InChicago,

there are a wealth of intriguing garden spaces that dwell above the pavement, from rooftops, to terraces, balconies, and more. In the heart of the bustling Fulton Market District, a hip and modern rooftop retreat provides endless views of the Chicago cityscape while also creating an intimate getaway for a busy couple. The terrace is thoughtfully designed to make the most of every square foot while seeming effortless in style. We talked with Gwyneth Owen Webber, Designer & Director of Horticultural Services at Chicago Specialty Gardens about this beautiful project.

The clients chose a condominium in a new luxury brick building that has an industrial edge and loft feel fitting for the manufacturing history of the neighborhood. Their unit is on the top floor and features one of the four open terraces. They are a young urban couple that love entertaining, but also treasure a quiet cup of morning coffee. “They wanted that California-type lifestyle of blending indoor and outdoor living,” commented Webber. “Part of that desire for effortless transition is being able to easily control the outdoor features. The garden elements are part of their home automation system, so they can operate everything with the touch of a button or (continued on page 34)