Summer has arrived, and people are flocking outdoors. A big part of that centres around one standout setting: rooftops. From rooftop bars to open-air cinemas and elevated events, these sky-high spaces are in high demand. But what is it that draws us to events held above it all, especially those on the top floor?
1. The appeal of altitude: control, escape, and perspective
Psychologically, the vertical separation from street level fosters feelings of detachment and reflection. Rooftops create a mental “pause,” allowing people to disconnect from the noise and stress below and reconnect with themselves. This is why rooftop gardens, bars, and lounges often feel more serene or introspective, even in bustling cities.
2. Safety meets exposure: The thrill factor
There’s also a subtle tension at play. Rooftops are often open-air and exposed, spaces where the sky looms large and edges are near. This slight edge of risk can activate a thrill response, heightening awareness and emotions. That’s why rooftop experiences can feel more memorable or romantic: they’re stimulating yet controlled.
3. Social dynamics: Elevated status
From a sociological perspective, rooftops can symbolise elevation in status. VIP rooftop access, rooftop penthouses, or sky bars signal exclusivity. This reinforces the psychological link between height and prestige, a phenomenon rooted in language (“moving up,” “top floor,” “climbing the ladder”).
4. Biophilic design and nature on high
Adding greenery to rooftops, whether through gardens, beehives, or planters activates the benefits of biophilic design, where nature is integrated into built environments. Rooftop gardens have been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive performance, and offer therapeutic benefits, especially in dense urban areas where green space is scarce.
5. Cultural and cinematic influence
Culturally, rooftops occupy symbolic space. They are sites of revelation, rebellion, romance, or reflection in film and literature. Think West Side Story, The Great Gatsby, Inception, or even Batman. This feeds into our collective imagination: rooftops as liminal spaces, where rules bend and transformations happen.
Rooftops – the best place to host your next event.
