Focus — Babylon Chicago

(continued from page 30) with the app on their phones. The firepit, the lights, even the umbrella are all programmed.”

The clients also wanted to maximize sight lines to the stunning city views. “The north side of the terrace is across from McDonald’s Hamburger University, so the clients wanted some implied screening for privacy,” reported Webber. “We also specified a low sectional in our collaboration with James Thomas Interiors, so when you’re seated, it feels like you’re tucked away.”

Although the clients specified a modern to mid-century aesthetic for the furnishings, the wife loves English gardens. Chicago Specialty Gardens had to get creative in their plant choices that would reflect the romanticism of the English style and stand up to being 8 floors up in Chicago winds. “We chose hardy roses, magnolia, and sweet autumn clematis among others,” commented Webber.

The Challenges

Chicago Specialty Gardens was fortunate to work with the clients from the beginning so that water and electricity could be incorporated into the build out of the condo. “It was a really fun challenge to make sure that we had the electrical service we needed for the fire feature, the kitchen space, the lighting, and the umbrella,” said Webber. “We had to really think about the layout to maximize every square foot and ensure that the systems would function, even in winter.”

Because the terrace is on the top floor, the team had to also plan for the window washer system. The davit bases for the system are permanently installed and Webber had to work around them. She chose ORE Designs to fabricate custom containers for the whole terrace, but particularly to accommodate the anchors. “The containers fit over the davits. They have hidden locking casters, so when you need access, you pop open a front panel, unlock the wheels, and move the planters out of the way,” reported Webber. “There’s also a quick connect for the drip irrigation and lighting systems at the bottom, so you can easily disconnect and reconnect.” The containers not only had to accommodate the window washing mounts, but also blend seamlessly into the design. “ORE was wonderful to work with on these planters. They are a high-grade aluminum so fit in well to the industrial feel of the space. We also had them made extra deep so we could accommodate woody plants like roses and trees.”

Furniture choices were kept low with clean lines to take advantage of every view. The building has strict regulations, so a pergola to provide shade wasn’t allowed. “The umbrella is cantilevered over the dining table and is considered a garden décor element versus a full structure,” observed Webber. “Plus, the clients travel a lot, so it’s easy to fold up and keep tidy when they’re away.” A custom gas-powered fire feature is controlled with the tap of a button to provide a flickering blaze in seconds.

The clients, while being a modern couple, love the romantic softness of an English garden. This provided the Chicago Specialty Gardens team with an interesting challenge. “How do you choose plants that can handle the crazy winds and exposure of a Chicago rooftop and still be beautiful and luxurious? It was a good challenge to stretch ourselves as horticulturists,” said Webber. The orientation to the east helps protect the terrace a bit from the punishing northwest winter winds. “We chose Drift shrub roses in cream and pink. Boxwood for evergreen elements and winter interest. Sweet autumn clematis is woven through the short trellises for privacy because it’s just tough as nails. We also managed to tuck in a small magnolia and a Japanese maple in the most protected corner and they’re doing quite well.” A bank of panicle hydrangeas fills the space between the terrace and the neighbors, allowing for a soft traditional flower, plus screening and durability.

The custom container design is part of the maintenance package and include perennials, annuals, grasses, and foliage plants. “We handle the maintenance for this client, which includes seasonal change outs for the containers,” commented Webber. “It’s fun and interesting to me because as long as the plantings are full and lush, we can pick the plants. It lets us play with textures and colors. I usually thread a pop of blue through the plantings. We also do winter arrangements in the containers, so the garden is always fresh and green, no matter the season.”

The Result

This terrace invites you outdoors to experience all the best aspects of Chicago from the sweet summer days to the bustling nightlife. With amenities available at the touch of a button, the clients can entertain on a whim or cuddle up for a cozy night at home. The roses, vines, and perennials offer traditional fragrance and flowers to this sophisticated rooftop space. It’s easy to linger and enjoy outdoor living. “The clients let us play with plants and that’s really something special,” commented Webber. “The clients adore this space, and it gave us the opportunity to do some creative solutions and build something truly beautiful.”