Craving outdoor space for grilling and gardening, designer Laurie Blumenfeld-Russo and her husband, Bob Russo, considered buying a weekend place in Connecticut. Instead, the couple went vertical, turning the roof of their brownstone into a multiseason entertaining oasis. Complete with lush greenery, a restaurant-worthy outdoor kitchen, and room for hosting, “It’s like a vacation home, but we have the shortest commute!” says Blumenfeld-Russo. —Carisha Swanson
1. DINING AREA
The wraparound banquette has under-seat storage and is made of ipe, a hard-wearing wood that is naturally mildew resistant. “Adding the chaise extension on the left side created a cozy spot for post-meal lounging,” says Blumenfeld-Russo. The eight-foot-long custom table, built from reclaimed oak, seats 10.
2. CREATING SHADE
Flowering clematis vines scale the pergola, softening the industrial feeling of the support…
