Unsuspected by passers-by, the rooftops of Paris are rich in gardens that float between the elegant streets and the sky. From "up here" fortunate Parisiennes cultivate elegant gardens and enjoy spectacular views of landmarks of their city-some can even dive into a pool. Paris Roof Terraces opens the reader to an unexpected facet of Paris living. The owners of these green havens-like top designer Andrée Putman and Siki, the celebrity jeweler-reveal their rooftop garden design secrets and experience: how they choose plants; how they succeed in creating and maintaining a luscious green universe; and what their roof gardens mean to them. Their way of creating a small terrace or garden can be simple-a few strands of ivy curled around a terracotta pot, wisteria growing on a trellis-but the effect, as always in France, is to create a stunning sense of style bursting with color and vitality.

Lavishly illustrated with specially commissioned photographs, Paris Roof Terraces provides a visual treat and a source of inspiration for all those interested in gardening in a city environment, or who simply dream of a private space of their own in the City of Light.

Alexandra d'Arnoux is a former editor of Vogue magazine.

Bruno de Laubadère is co-author with Alexandra d'Arnoux of Secret Gardens in Paris.

Deidi von Schaewen is a journalist living in Berlin.