Up on the Roof - A client purchased a vintage row house in Northwest DC’s Adams Morgan neighborhood with the goal of converting it into four airy units—including a top-floor penthouse.

While working with Balaton Builders and residential development and design firm Lukors, the owner and design team made a discovery: The empty roof, with views of the Capitol, could be converted into an expansive deck. “The owner envisioned being able to enjoy the outdoors in the middle of a busy area,” recounts Balaton principal Javier Baldiviezo. Accessible only from the penthouse via a spiral staircase, the new roof is clad in Brazilian tigerwood siding and decking. It features plenty of seating—including a long bench incorporated into the siding—and a shower with a riverstone floor, positioned for privacy. A kitchen unit with a grill, refrigerator and workspace is tucked into one corner; a living wall beyond it conceals the building’s mechanical systems.

Up on the Roof - The A/V system supports a TV, speakers, security cameras, an intercom and Wi-Fi.