Opulent Rooftop Definition

Opulent Rooftop Definition

• An opulent rooftop is the topmost floor of a restaurant or hotel converted into an area appropriate for high-end social gatherings and planned events. An establishment may also convert this area into a permanent business. For example, the Skyroom at the Marriott Times Square in New York City is a permanent luxury lounge occupying the top two floors of the hotel. Many restaurants and hotels across the country convert rooftops into these luxury establishments as a means of attracting wealthy clientele.

Seasonal Rooftop Locations

• Because an opulent rooftop uses the building's roof as its own floor, a restaurant or hotel must install a second roof to use the location year round. An establishment electing to leave the location at least partly open to the air may use the facility as a seasonal establishment. For example, a hotel may open a rooftop bar or restaurant during the warm summer months for guests who wish to dine outside and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. This can provide a seasonal boost in revenue for the business and garner more attention from tourists.

Residential Rooftop Conversions

• Converting the roof of a residential home to an opulent rooftop can be difficult. A residential roof may not have the structural supports needed to adequately manage the weight of people routinely walking on it. Adding cooking equipment, tables and chairs to the roof also increases the weight the structure must support. Only a licensed building contractor can survey the building to determine if making an addition to the rooftop is safe and economically feasible. The cost of such a conversion can easily stretch into the thousands of dollars.

Building Codes and Ordinances

• Making an addition to a residential rooftop may be against local ordinances and building codes. Inquiring with local and city building officials is necessary to determine if such an addition is legal. If the city or municipality where the homeowner lives does not allow rooftop additions, any licensed contractor who takes the job could lose professional licenses and credentials. A homeowner could also incur stiff fines for remodeling her home in a manner that violates building codes and safety regulations.