Cabana Party: Putting a Premium on Shared Space
Up on the roof—celebrated in song—is where city folks went to enjoy the view, extend the party or share a romantic sunset. From the bare bones "tar beach" to the tastefully landscaped roof gardens of better buildings, this terrace-in-the-sky helped make up for space often missing from one's own apartment. Recently there has been a trend toward creative re-thinking of common space to maximize desirability to a building's residents, and rooftops are a big focus. Roof-deck plans for 52 East 4th Street include an "endless stream" spa pool while at Sutton 57 a rooftop "moon garden," is offered with several varieties of foliage whose flowers open in the evening as part of the design.

Private rooftop cabanas—sold separately to residents—offer river views, the world's most stunning skylines and prices some would expect to pay for a small apartment. The cabana trend began when unused roof space existed but building tenants couldn't be assured access to it. Developers realized they could divide private spaces with lattice or fencing to sell separately. At condos like the Visionaire, private cabanas line a landscaped walkway.

Other shared spaces are being designed to keep up with residents' tastes. For example, elegant European-style libraries with paneling and ladders are one current trend. Many residents-only common spaces also feature a home-office area with computer access. Another trend is to offer media screening rooms that resemble mini-movie theaters with high-tech big screens and projectors. This trend hits its peak at 165 Charles Street, where there's a professional screening room that boasts Richard Meier-designed leather seats for residents and 35 guests. 

Find buildings with the best, most innovative common spaces here:
http://www.cityrealty.com/new_developments/