The Sky’s the Limit | 6 Rooftop Terraces

Perched atop buildings from Manhattan to Montecito, these enviable roof terraces allow for alfresco relaxation in lofty locations with breathtaking backdrops.

Timeless Park Avenue Townhouse

New York, New York | Beverly J. Cole, Sotheby’s International Realty – East Side Manhattan Brokerage

This classic townhouse—which currently consists of two units—affords numerous possibilities. Every room is spacious and bright, with ceilings soaring up to 14 feet, and the stylish rooftop terrace is ideal for appreciating views of Park Avenue. Purchase of the building includes plans for a renovation that would transform it into one grand residence with a penthouse and approvals for the creation of a front garden and the addition of a basement for staff quarters and a wine cellar.

Premier Russian Hill Penthouse

San Francisco, California | Gregg Lynn, Sotheby’s International Realty – San Francisco Brokerage

A dramatic glass oculus skylight and oversized windows commanding panoramic skyline and bay views are hallmarks of this magnificent penthouse, on the market for the first time in half a century. Its grandly proportioned, elegantly detailed public spaces include a living room, a library, and a wet bar and wine room. The central great room opens through glass doors to a stunning terrace where a majestic vista unfolds. A keyed elevator and parking for three cars are among the many amenities offered.

La Ladera

Montecito, California | Tina Stern, Wish Sotheby’s International Realty

This impressive estate brings Old World Mediterranean grandeur to Montecito. The heart of the 2.72-acre sanctuary is a 8,306-square-foot residence that dates to 1912 and offers four bedroom suites, a two-bedroom guest apartment, elegant living and dining spaces, a Viking-equipped kitchen, and a gym. Overlooking the peaceful grounds—which boast colorful manicured landscaping, a pool and spa, a koi pond, and a meditation garden—is a breezy rooftop terrace designed for appreciation of views that stretch to the coastline.

Harbor’s Edge Aerie

Sag Harbor, New York | Frank Bodenchak & Dawn Bodenchak, Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage

In a condominium collection known for its luxurious amenities and convenient location, this stylish two-bedroom residence enjoys spectacular water views from nearly every room. In addition to a light-flooded kitchen, dining room, living room, master bedroom, and two guest suites, it offers a generous balcony designed for outdoor living and entertaining and features custom millwork, wallpaper, lighting, and fixtures by Katie White Interiors. Among the amenities at Harbor’s Edge is a rooftop “sun lounge” with a 50-foot swimming pool, a cabana, and a wet bar.

Modernist Masterpiece in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico | Neil Lyon, Sotheby’s International Realty – Santa Fe – 326 Grant Avenue Brokerage

In the hills of Tesuque, just north of Santa Fe, this distinctive modern residence designed and constructed by Robert Ritter features uniquely sleek rectilinear adobe walls and a minimalist interior that more closely resembles an urban museum than a Southwestern-style retreat. Glass walls frame priceless mountain views and create a serene, refined harmony. A wraparound portal and a rooftop mezzanine above the one-bedroom casita afford stunning sweeping vistas in four directions.

Mediterranean Majesty in Montecito

Santa Barbara, California | Elias Benson, Sotheby’s International Realty – Montecito – East Valley Road Brokerage

Atop a hill with a view encompassing the mountains and the ocean, this majestic five-bedroom residence recalls the villas of  Tuscany’s countryside. Vine-draped walls, barrel-tiled rooflines, decorative ironwork, four warming fireplaces, groin-vaulted ceilings and archways, and an idyllic courtyard with a fountain contribute to the romantic Mediterranean ambience. The master suite opens through double doors to an expansive arbor-covered verandah with breathtaking views. The acreage includes a 60-foot pool, a one-bedroom pool house, an avocado orchard, fruit trees, and manicured gardens.

Journey from the rooftop and out the backdoor to discover gardens