An architect's house in the heart of Paris

Designed by Pablo Katz, this very demanding project in terms of sustainable development and high environmental quality benefited from the expertise of BMI and in particular from waterproofing set under the Dalle Boise slab on the terraces.
Roof terrace flooring

Flat roof terrace

Flat roofs may be used for purposes other than those traditionally associated with a roof. If properly designed, they can help create more space and facilitate outdoor living. Transforming a roof into a terrace can be an effective solution for those who live in city centres, where it is not always possible to increase the space and where outside areas, such as balconies, are often not available.

Converting a roof into a habitable terrace is an option often considered also in more modern commercial buildings. The absence of outside space in high-rise structures could be addressed by converting flat roofs into recreational areas. In some situations, it is worth considering whether, in addition to a terrace, a garden or sports area can be created to enjoy during work breaks.

In the event it is decided to convert an existing roof, the administrative and procedural aspects related to converting the total volume of the building must be considered. Additionally, if the roof terrace is installed in replacement of a pitched roof, a static test must be performed for the purposes of understanding the static condition of the building. This will detect any changes in the gravitational load and the foundations and will check the building's seismic resistance.

Other decisive factors to consider when choosing a terraced roofing system is the presence or otherwise of inhabited spaces underneath the roof, which will inform decisions regarding insulation and waterproofing and the choice between warm roof and inverted roof solutions. The choice of warm roof or inverted roof defines the composition of the roofing system both with regard to its components and the sequence in which they are installed.

To complete the design of the roof terrace, a decision must be made regarding which type of parapet and flooring to install. Apart from the aesthetic aspect, both of these elements affect the security and durability of the roof.

Project Highlights

  • Contracting authority: private

  • Architectural firm: Pablo Katz

  • Period of the works: 3 years

  • Waterproofing company: Isochape

An architect's house in the 20th district of Paris

Waterproofing at the service of contemporary design

Hélène and Laurent bought land not far from Porte de Bagnolet, at the foot of a small village dubbed “La campagne à Paris” (“Countryside in Paris”), in the 20th district of the French capital. They built a town house there designed by Pablo Katz, winner of the Archinovo Prize for this design.

Made of glass and wood set on a stone base, this architect's house achieves a transition between the one-storey terraced houses built at the beginning of the 20th century and the nearby 6-storey (ground floor + 5) and 7-story (ground floor + 6) collective housing buildings.

The house features a terrace/balcony on the perimeter of the rooms on the top floor, a loggia on the first floor which overlooks a micro-garden, as well as a terrace at the top with a view of the rooftops of Paris, the perfect place to relax. To support this ambitious and highly demanding project in terms of sustainable development and high environmental quality, BMI has contributed its expertise in waterproofing, in particular by introducing waterproofing under the Dalle Boise slab on the terraces which brings a warm touch to the contemporary architecture of the house. 

To find out more about this work by Pablo Katz

Project Highlights

Project Highlights

  • Contracting authority: private

  • Architectural firm: Pablo Katz

  • Location: 20th district of Paris

  • Period of the works: 3 years

  • Waterproofing company: Isochape

Terrasse01

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