What can you grow and what can you put on a rooftop? Most designers know that sedums can easily be planted in rooftop gardens, but beds of sedums are surely not always the best design solution.
In The Professional Design Guide to Green Roofs
In the first part of the book, inspiration for design is explored in depth. The authors tells us that rooftops can be inspired by patterns on men's neckties, by the surrounding natural landscape, by paintings or perhaps by a building's architecture. Shapes and patterns also influence design, along with the purposeful creation of living spaces for private and public enjoyment. Hardscape elements are considered, too, along with rooftops that are wildlife-friendly, and how to select the proper plant palette.
Part Two of the book focuses on rooftop structure and construction: access, irrigation, site analysis, load factors and necessary documentation. There are also separate chapters on how to deal with private clients and public communities; master planning and conceptual design; contracts and maintenance management.
In conclusion, the authors asked a number of designers, ecologists, researchers and others to participate in a virtual round-table to discuss key issues that will affect the future of green roof tehnology and design. Landscape architect Claudia Harari envisions "continuous green membranes going indoors and out, and food production being incorporated into aesthetics." Plant ecologist Colleen Butler told the authors that regardless of a green roof's function, "if it is visible and accessible it needs to be good looking, because that's what people are going to cue off of."
And she may be right. If you've been to Millennium Park in Chicago, or The High Line in New York City, you simply want more and more of the same.
Nothing's been left out in this book ... it's one that every designer needs.
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