Roof Decks and Outdoor Space in City Townhomes

Outdoor space is hard to come by in a dense city. Many Philadelphia rowhomes have a small rear yard or none at all. That is why so many owners look up. A roof deck turns unused space into a place to sit, eat or take in the sky. Some new homes go further and add decks on more than one floor.

Why Outdoor Space Is Worth Planning For

Outdoor space changes how a home is used. It adds room for morning coffee, a meal outside or simply fresh air. In a narrow townhome, it also adds light and a sense of openness. The question is not only whether a home has outdoor space, but where that space sits and how easy it is to reach.

Three Decks in One Home

A new community in Packer Park, South Philadelphia, gives each townhome three separate outdoor areas:

  • A large fiberglass roof deck at the top of the home
  • A deck off the kitchen on the 2nd floor
  • A deck off the primary bedroom on the 4th floor

Each one serves a different purpose. The kitchen deck sits beside the main cooking and dining area, so it is easy to step out with a plate. The primary deck is a private spot off the bedroom. The roof deck luxury homes for sale Philadelphia 19145 is the largest open space in the home.

Getting Up There Easily

A roof deck is only useful if you actually go up to it. In a four-story home, stairs can make that a chore. These homes include a 5-stop elevator from the lower level to the 4th floor, with a 4-person capacity. It is included in the base price. That makes the upper decks much easier to reach. If you are searching for Philadelphia townhomes with elevator access, this is a key detail.

What Surrounds the Decks

The setting matters for outdoor space. The community sits next to FDR Park, one of the largest green spaces in the city. It is also convenient to the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, the Navy Yard, the Walt Whitman Bridge and Philadelphia International Airport. Packer Park itself is a quiet residential neighborhood.

Tips for Using a Roof Deck Well

  1. Choose outdoor furniture that suits the size of the deck.
  2. Add planters for greenery, keeping weight and drainage in mind.
  3. Plan for shade on sunny afternoons.
  4. Use lighting so the space works after dark.

Inside the Home

The decks connect to a well-equipped interior. Each home has about 3,200 square feet of living space, 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Large Andersen windows bring in daylight. A 2-car garage has an interior entrance. The kitchen includes a Sub-Zero refrigerator and a Wolf range.

The base price is listed from $1,175,000, and initial prices are subject to change as costs and demand rise. The site lists a full ten-year tax abatement; confirm the terms with the City of Philadelphia or your advisor.

Visit the Model

The community is Renaissance Estates in Packer Park. The furnished model home is open by private appointment. Limited homes remain, so check current availability. Call (215) 551-5100 or email [email protected].