By Meyers Roofing Co. | Serving Southern California

When you think of roofs, the standard asphalt shingle or clay tile might come to mind. But here in Southern California—and around the world—some homeowners and architects are getting creative with roofing styles that are anything but ordinary.

At Meyers Roofing Co., we specialize in both traditional and innovative roofing systems. Whether you’re remodeling your home or building a new one, here are 10 unique types of roofs that stand out for their style, sustainability, and functionality—perfect inspiration for homes in Southern California’s diverse climate and landscape.

1. Green (Living) Roofs

Sustainable, Stylish, and Smart

Covered in live vegetation, green roofs help insulate your home, reduce heat, and absorb rainwater—ideal for eco-conscious homeowners and businesses in Los Angeles, San Diego, or anywhere facing rising energy costs.

Green roofs are literally alive. They’re built with layers that support grasses, succulents, or even full gardens. These living roofs provide natural insulation, absorb rainwater, reduce urban heat, and even improve air quality.

Why It Works in SoCal:
With our sunny weather and increasing interest in sustainable living, green roofs are ideal for eco-conscious homeowners—especially in dense urban areas like Downtown LA or Long Beach. Plus they make beautiful gardens!

2. Butterfly Roofs

Modern Design with a Purpose

This eye-catching, inverted V-shape design channels rainwater to the center, making it perfect for water conservation—an important feature for homes in drought-prone areas of SoCal.

This roof resembles an open butterfly’s wings, with two slopes angling inward toward a central valley. Originally popularized in mid-century modern design, it’s gaining popularity again in places like Palm Springs and the Hollywood Hills.

Why It Works in SoCal:
Its inward slope allows for rainwater harvesting—perfect for drought-prone regions. It also provides high clerestory windows, maximizing natural light.

3. Thatched Roofs

Rustic and Naturally Cool

While rare in the U.S., thatched roofs bring a unique, tropical feel. They’re sometimes used for poolside cabanas or guesthouses in luxury Southern California homes.

Made of dried straw, reed, or palm fronds, thatched roofs are among the oldest roofing types in the world. Though uncommon in modern Southern California homes, they make a stunning choice for outdoor structures, poolside cabanas, or luxury guesthouses.

Why It Works in SoCal:
Thatched roofs provide excellent insulation and create a beachy, resort-style vibe—perfect for homes in coastal areas like Laguna Beach or Santa Barbara.

4. Skillion Roofs

Simple, Sleek, and Solar-Ready

Also known as shed roofs, this single-slope style is great for modern homes in Palm Springs or Malibu, giving a clean, contemporary look while allowing solar panel installations.

This roof has a single slope, making it perfect for minimalistic, contemporary architecture. It’s easy to install, affordable, and works especially well with solar panels due to its clean angle.

Why It Works in SoCal:
The high slope allows for efficient rainwater runoff and easy solar integration—ideal for desert areas like Joshua Tree or energy-efficient homes in Orange County.

5. Mansard Roofs

Double-Slope Elegance and Extra Space

This elegant, French-inspired design creates extra space in the attic—ideal for ADUs or home offices in growing areas like Orange County or Riverside.

The Mansard roof features two slopes on all four sides, with the lower one steeper than the top. It’s an iconic element of French architecture that adds a sophisticated aesthetic and creates more usable space in the attic or upper floor.

Why It Works in SoCal:
Perfect for homeowners looking to add ADUs or extra living space—without altering the building’s footprint. Great for historic renovations or urban infill developments.

6. Dome Roofs

Architectural Boldness with Efficiency

Curved and spacious, dome roofs are structurally sound and visually striking. They’re perfect for custom homes that want to stand out in upscale neighborhoods.

A dome roof curves in all directions, forming a hemisphere. It’s extremely strong and energy-efficient, offering great airflow and temperature regulation.

Why It Works in SoCal:
Dome roofs are perfect for custom desert retreats, wellness centers, or high-end hillside homes where thermal performance and views are priorities.

7. Sawtooth Roofs

Industrial Edge Meets Modern Innovation

Popular in industrial architecture, sawtooth roofs are now making their way into creative residential builds. Their shape allows maximum daylight, which helps reduce electricity use.

This roof alternates between sloped and vertical surfaces, resembling a saw blade. It was originally used in factories for light diffusion but is now a trendy option for homes and studios.

Why It Works in SoCal:
The vertical windows can bring in indirect sunlight—ideal for artists’ studios, workshops, or loft-style homes in creative communities like Venice Beach or Silver Lake.

8. Saltbox Roofs

Asymmetrical Charm with Practical Benefits

The traditional New England style is surprisingly practical in Southern California, especially in hilly regions where asymmetry helps with water runoff.

This roof style features one short slope in the front and a long slope in the back. It originated in colonial New England but is now loved for its character and weather-handling capabilities.

Why It Works in SoCal:
Ideal for areas that experience sudden rain or where homeowners want a home that stands out without breaking local zoning rules.

9. Gambrel Roofs

Classic Country Style, Maximum Storage

A barn-style roof that offers charm and function—perfect for farmhouses, accessory units, or even stylish garage conversions.

Like a mansard roof but with two sides, gambrel roofs are commonly found on barns but make excellent residential options too—especially for garages or ADUs.

Why It Works in SoCal:
They offer generous attic space and evoke rustic charm—perfect for homes in rural Riverside County or Santa Ynez Valley.

10. Hyperbolic Paraboloid Roofs

Sculptural, Strong, and Futuristic

This futuristic, curved roof is an architectural standout. It’s strong, lightweight, and ideal for custom builds in modern Southern California homes.

The saddle-shaped design is created by a series of straight lines, but it forms a unique curved surface. It’s a structural feat that offers strength, drainage, and dramatic aesthetics.

Why It Works in SoCal:
It’s ideal for custom architecture, especially for homeowners and businesses looking to push design boundaries in high-end communities like Beverly Hills or Newport Beach.

Let’s Design a Roof That’s as Unique as Your Home

At Meyers Roofing Co., we believe a roof should be more than just protection from the elements—it should be part of your home’s identity. From traditional Spanish tile to cutting-edge architectural concepts, we bring expert craftsmanship, Southern California know-how, and personalized service to every project.

Get in touch today at (949) 691-3228 for a free estimate or to explore custom roofing options for your next home and commercial improvement project.