Rooftops and balconies are often overlooked as usable space. Many people see them as small or impractical. Francesco Saltarelli, a Montreal-based landscape designer and founder of Saltarelli Outdoor Design, has spent over a decade transforming these spaces into functional and stylish urban retreats. He has worked on rooftops, small backyards, and balconies throughout the city, helping clients turn underused areas into vibrant outdoor living spaces.
“On one project, a client had a tiny balcony that barely fit a chair. We added a vertical garden, a foldable table, and compact planters. It became their favorite spot for morning coffee,” Saltarelli recalls. “Small spaces don’t have to feel cramped if you use every inch wisely.”
Understanding the Potential of Small Spaces
Small outdoor spaces have unique advantages. They are easier to maintain, more private, and can be customized to your needs. According to a 2022 urban living study, 68% of apartment dwellers said they wanted to spend more time outside, but only 25% had access to functional outdoor space. Rooftops and balconies can fill this gap.
When evaluating your space, consider sunlight, wind, and visibility. These factors will affect what plants will grow, where furniture should go, and what features are practical. Saltarelli advises, “Before you buy anything, spend a few days observing the space at different times. Notice where sunlight hits, where shadows fall, and where people naturally walk. That shapes the entire design.”
Start With Function
Small spaces need a clear purpose. Do you want a seating area, a garden, or a combination? “One rooftop I worked on was initially empty concrete. The client wanted a mix of entertaining and private relaxation. We added seating zones, raised planters, and a small herb garden,” Saltarelli says. “Even in 300 square feet, you can create multiple zones if you plan carefully.”
Choosing the Right Plants
Plants make a space feel alive, but they need to suit the environment. Urban rooftops can be windy and exposed, while balconies may get limited sunlight. Native and drought-tolerant plants reduce maintenance and survive extreme conditions. Saltarelli recommends, “I like using grasses, small shrubs, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. They handle Montreal’s weather and add texture and smell. Even a small planter with basil or lavender can change the vibe completely.”
Vertical planting is also effective. Walls, trellises, and hanging pots save floor space while providing greenery. Saltarelli adds, “On a narrow balcony, we used a metal frame for climbing plants. It gave privacy, color, and didn’t block the walkway.”
Use Containers Wisely
Containers and planters should be functional and aesthetic. Saltarelli advises choosing lightweight materials like fiberglass or resin. Heavy stone can stress balcony floors. Containers can be mobile, allowing seasonal rearrangement or repositioning for sunlight. Grouping pots in odd numbers makes spaces feel more natural.
Furniture and Layout
Size matters when choosing furniture. Foldable chairs, stackable stools, and narrow tables work well. Saltarelli often uses multi-functional pieces. “We built benches that doubled as storage for cushions and tools. Clients were surprised how much space they could save while keeping it stylish.”
Create clear pathways. Even a tiny balcony should allow for easy movement. Avoid overcrowding with too many pots or decorations. Leave open space for flexibility.
Adding Lighting and Ambiance
Lighting transforms small spaces after dark. Saltarelli uses solar-powered LEDs along railings, string lights above seating, and small spotlights for planters. “On one terrace, the client wanted a cozy evening spot. We installed solar lights that shifted colors and highlighted their favorite plants. It became the most used area in the building,” he recalls.
Adding texture and color through cushions, rugs, or outdoor fabrics makes a balcony or terrace feel inviting. Saltarelli notes, “Even a tiny rug can define a seating zone and make the space feel larger.”
Maximizing Privacy
Urban spaces often lack privacy. Screens, trellises, and tall plants create barriers. Saltarelli says, “On a crowded street, we added bamboo screens and potted evergreens. It blocked sightlines and created a sense of calm, even in a busy neighborhood.”
Mirrors can also make spaces feel larger and reflect natural light. Small rooftop terraces benefit from mirrors near planters or along walls to enhance depth.
Sustainability Tips
Small urban spaces are perfect for eco-friendly design. Use native plants, rainwater collection, and efficient watering systems. Saltarelli recommends drip irrigation or self-watering planters. “One client had a rooftop that dried out in summer. We added drip lines and a few drought-tolerant plants. It saved water and kept plants thriving all season,” he says.
Composting small amounts of kitchen waste for potted plants is another simple sustainability step. Even minimal effort adds environmental benefits.
Final Thoughts
Rooftops and balcony gardens can transform urban living. Even tiny areas can become functional, stylish, and restorative. Francesco Saltarelli Montreal emphasizes observation, careful planning, and thoughtful plant selection. “Small spaces are not limitations. They are opportunities to be creative, practical, and connected to nature,” he says.
With the right plants, furniture, lighting, and layout, any urban terrace or balcony can become a personal retreat. Start small, plan zones carefully, and focus on features that enhance your daily life. A few square feet can make a big difference in comfort, wellbeing, and the overall enjoyment of city living.
Peyman Khosravani is a seasoned expert in blockchain, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, with a strong focus on innovation in finance, business, and marketing. With a robust background in blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi), Peyman has successfully guided global organizations in refining digital strategies and optimizing data-driven decision-making. His work emphasizes leveraging technology for societal impact, focusing on fairness, justice, and transparency. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of digital tools, Peyman’s expertise spans across helping startups and established businesses navigate digital landscapes, drive growth, and stay ahead of industry trends. His insights into analytics and communication empower companies to effectively connect with customers and harness data to fuel their success in an ever-evolving digital world.
