Why Hotels Are Investing in Year-Round Rooftop Spaces

Hotel rooftops have become much more than a place to take in the view. Across the hospitality industry, rooftops are being transformed into restaurants, bars, lounges and event venues that can become destinations in their own right. For hotels, these spaces offer an opportunity to create memorable guest experiences while making better use of valuable square footage.

There is one challenge, however: the weather.

A rooftop restaurant or bar may be a major draw on a beautiful day, but rain, wind, cold temperatures and other unpredictable conditions can quickly limit its use. As hotels look to maximize their outdoor spaces, more properties are designing rooftops that can adapt to changing conditions and remain usable throughout more of the year.

Making the Most of Valuable Rooftop Space

Every square foot of a hotel property has value, and rooftops provide an opportunity to transform previously underutilized areas into functional hospitality spaces.

Rather than limiting rooftop operations to a few months of favorable weather, hotels can incorporate weather protection into the design from the beginning. Retractable roof and enclosure systems can help turn seasonal rooftops into more versatile spaces while maintaining the outdoor atmosphere that makes them appealing in the first place.

When the weather is beautiful, the enclosure can open to the sky. When conditions change, it can close to provide protection for guests and the space below.

Creating More Opportunities for Revenue

A rooftop can serve many purposes within a hotel. In addition to a restaurant or bar, the same space may host private dinners, cocktail receptions, corporate gatherings, weddings and other special events.

The more frequently that space can be used, the more opportunities a hotel has to generate revenue from it.

Weather-dependent spaces can present challenges, particularly when events are booked weeks or months in advance. Incorporating a retractable enclosure gives hotels greater flexibility to use rooftop spaces even when the forecast isn’t ideal.

Giving Guests the Outdoor Experience

Part of the appeal of a hotel rooftop is the experience itself. Guests can enjoy natural light, fresh air and city views in a setting that feels distinctly different from an indoor restaurant or ballroom.

Creating a year-round rooftop doesn’t have to mean sacrificing that open-air experience.

Unlike a permanent roof, a retractable enclosure allows hotels to respond to the conditions of the day. On a warm, sunny afternoon or comfortable evening, the system can open to create an outdoor environment. When rain or cooler weather arrives, the space can be enclosed while maintaining views and natural light.

The result is a rooftop that can offer both an indoor and outdoor experience within the same footprint.

Expanding Event and Private Dining Potential

Hotel rooftops are natural settings for memorable events. Skyline views and an elevated atmosphere can make them particularly attractive for weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events and private celebrations.

But event planners need spaces they can depend on.

A rooftop that relies entirely on good weather may require a backup location or last-minute changes. Designing the space with weather protection in mind can give hotels greater flexibility when hosting events and private functions throughout the year.

Creating a Memorable Hotel Amenity

Today’s travelers aren’t only choosing hotels based on where they sleep. Restaurants, bars, pools, wellness spaces and other amenities can all contribute to the overall guest experience.

A well-designed rooftop can become one of a property’s signature features. In some cases, rooftop restaurants and bars can attract local customers as well as overnight guests, giving the space an identity beyond the hotel itself.

Making that amenity available during more seasons allows hotels to get more from the investment while providing guests with a distinctive experience regardless of when they visit.

Designing Rooftops for Flexibility

Ultimately, the goal isn’t simply to cover an outdoor space. It’s to create a rooftop that can adapt.

Roll-A-Cover’s custom retractable enclosure systems allow hotel rooftops to transition between open-air and protected environments as conditions change. Systems can be designed specifically for the property, helping hotels maintain the architecture, views and atmosphere that make their rooftop unique.

As hotels continue looking for ways to maximize their properties and create standout guest experiences, flexible rooftop design is becoming increasingly valuable.

With the right enclosure, a rooftop doesn’t have to be defined by the season or the forecast.

Contact Roll-A-Cover today for a retractable enclosure design and quote for your hotel!
p: (203) 393-7292
e: sales@rollacover.com