5 Incredible Green Roofs in Asia
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Green rooftop connecting three buildings in Chongqing Taoyuanju Community Center, China.
1. What makes the Chongqing Taoyuanju Community Center's green roof unique?
This continuous green roof connects three structures of the Chongqing Taoyuanju Community Center, which features cultural, athletics, and public health facilities. Designed by Vector Architects, this ring-shaped layout of the complex follows the existing topography of its site in the mountains of Taoyuan Park.
Sloped grass-covered roof of Nanyang Technology University School of Art, Design and Media in Singapore.
2. How does Nanyang Technology University use its sloped green roof?
Designed by CPG Consultant, the key feature of the building design is the green roof that slopes almost at a 45-degree angle. Beyond being an aesthetic feature that doubles as a scenic outdoor communal space, the green roofs keep the ambient temperature low and reduce heat in the daytime. The roof turf consists of a combination of two types of grass, Zoysia matrella and. Beneath the grasses are four layers of interrelated matter which include crushed volcanic rocks, pumice and washed sand, and a moisture retention mat.
Government office with vegetated rooftop in Fukoka Prefectural International Hall, Japan.
3. Why is the Fukoka Prefectural International Hall considered innovative?
The city of Fukoka needed a new government office building that would provide green space yet also be functional.
Expansive rooftop farm at Thammasat University integrating agriculture and solar panels.
4. What makes Thammasat University’s rooftop farm the largest in Asia?
the largest urban rooftop farm in Asia, the 236,806 sq. ft. Green Roof tackles climate impacts by incorporating modern landscape architecture with traditional agricultural ingenuity, the green roof, urban farming, solar roof, and green public space.
Terraced green roof with vegetation above retail shops at Namba Parks in Osaka, Japan.
5. How does Namba Parks blend shopping with nature?
Namba Parks is a shopping mall in the middle of Osaka, Japan's second-largest city. Designed by architect Jon Jerde, this multi-story pasture camouflages the shops and boutiques, including a plot to grow vegetables.
About The Author
Alan Burchell is the Principal of Urbanstrong, an award-winning firm specializing in sustainable rooftop solutions. A professional engineer, LEED-AP, Fitwel Ambassador and certified Green Roof Professional, Alan holds a degree in mechanical engineering and a Master of Science in Sustainability Management from Columbia University, with a focus on Sustainable Water Management.
For over a decade, Alan has been at the forefront of designing and implementing Solar-Integrated Green Roofs to tackle advanced rooftop stormwater management challenges. His extensive experience spans all seven continents, where he has worked as an environmentalist, project manager, speaker, and sales engineer. This global perspective enables Alan to address critical energy and water management issues, helping building owners reduce costs while complying with local codes, enhance sustainability, and boost property values.
Contact Alan today at aburchell@urbanstrong.com or 215.480.2210 or book a 15min chat directly in his calendar here.