Lower East Side Terrace Garden

Project Overview

Location:

Lower East Side, Manhattan

Project Type:

Residential terrace garden

Scope:

Terrace design, planter specification, plant procurement, and installation

Design Intent

This terrace sits high above the Lower East Side and is exposed to strong northwestern winds. The clients wanted the space to function as both a social dining terrace and a quieter retreat for morning coffee and exercise.

The design also needed to manage contrasting views. The southwest side of the terrace offers a striking skyline view, while the southeastern side faces less desirable surroundings.

The planting design was developed to reduce wind exposure, frame the preferred view, and visually connect the terrace to the interior renovation of the apartment.

Before Installation

Before the installation, the terrace was largely exposed, with strong wind sweeping across the open parapet wall. The clients found the space uncomfortable to use for dining or relaxation.

Spatial Organization

The terrace was divided into three zones based on how the clients use the space.

Dining Terrace (Southwest)

This portion frames the skyline view and supports evening meals and gatherings.

Exercise Area (Center)

Planter spacing creates breathing room for movement and stretching.

Morning Coffee Garden (Southeast)

A quieter seating area that includes a small herb garden with rosemary, oregano, and thyme.

Wind Mitigation Strategy

The terrace experiences strong northwestern winds. To reduce wind velocity without blocking views, a layered wind barrier system was installed.

A metal trellis panel and rows of vertical Hollywood Junipers diffuse incoming wind while maintaining openness and light.

Grasses and trailing plantings further soften airflow across the seating area.

Plant Palette

The planting palette balances structure and movement.

Vertical evergreens provide year-round structure and wind protection. Perennial grasses respond to the steady breeze and create motion throughout the space.

Nepetas and muted orange flowering perennials connect visually with the interior color palette of the apartment, while seasonal annual planters introduce variation throughout the year.

Material Language

Matte black rectangular planters with occasional fluted textures establish a strong architectural rhythm along the terrace edge.

The dark planters contrast with the light terrace flooring and emphasize the greenery while reinforcing the restrained brutalist aesthetic requested by the clients.