How Milwaukee’s Café Benelux Rooftop Became a Year-Round Destination

How Milwaukee’s Café Benelux Rooftop Became a Year-Round Destination

The Vision: Bringing Summer Energy to Every Season

Café Benelux has long been a Milwaukee favorite for its European-inspired fare and Third Ward rooftop views. But in a city where winters are long and unpredictable, outdoor dining has always been seasonal until now.

To create a space that could welcome guests year-round, the Lowlands Group partnered with Roll-A-Cover to design a custom retractable glass enclosure for the rooftop, now known as the Lux Skyhaus.

The Challenge: Weather Without Compromise

The goal was simple in theory but complex in execution: protect guests from Wisconsin’s wind, rain, and snow without losing the open-air feel that made the rooftop so popular.

Every element, from the structure’s framing to the panel transparency, needed to enhance the skyline view and maintain Café Benelux’s signature atmosphere. 

“It’s a great vibe,” says Ileana Rivera, Chief Creative Officer at Lowlands Group. “No matter the temp and no matter the forecast, our guests will be able to enjoy the views of Downtown all year round.” – Milwaukee Magazine

The Roll-A-Cover Solution

Roll-A-Cover engineered a motorized retractable glass enclosure system that glides open when the weather is perfect and seals tightly when it’s not. The system integrates seamlessly with the existing rooftop layout, allowing natural light, skyline views, and a sense of openness even when fully enclosed.

Inside, the space features lush greenery, string lights, and a cozy fireplace, which are all visible through the glass enclosure, creating the feeling of being outdoors no matter the forecast.

The Result: The Lux Skyhaus Experience

Since opening, the Lux Skyhaus has quickly become one of Milwaukee’s most sought-after dining experiences. Guests can enjoy the same rooftop ambience on a snowy December night as they would on a sunny June afternoon.

This transformation didn’t just enhance guest comfort. It also expanded the restaurant’s usable square footage year-round. It provides a return on investment through additional seating and extended operating hours.

A New Standard for Rooftop Design

Café Benelux’s project reflects a broader trend across the hospitality industry. Property owners are rethinking how to make every square foot count. Retractable enclosures are no longer a luxury. They’re also an investment in flexibility, comfort, and longevity.

With Roll-A-Cover’s custom systems, spaces can operate in all weather conditions while maintaining architectural integrity and brand aesthetic.

P: (203) 393-7292
E: sales@rollacover.com