SDSU –Live Roof

OVERVIEW

From concept to production, Greenleaf gave this neglected university green roof a much-needed facelift. Having worked with San Diego State University in the past, we had the opportunity to create an environmentally friendly, multipurpose space. The goal? Restore it to the thriving Californian garden it was intended to be.

• Propose a new garden solution that was aesthetically pleasing, fit within budget, and resistant to the harsh roof-top conditions.
• Solution must utilize existing recycled water irrigation system.
• Final design should meet LEED certification requirements.

• A thorough evaluation determined that the previous plants could not tolerate the wind and excessive sun with such a shallow root system.
• Presented several ideas including hardscaping and arrangements of drought tolerant plants that could withstand windy conditions and extreme temperatures.
• Directed client to a selection of native grasses and flowering succulents that would create depth and contrasting texture.
• After clearing out the debris and old soil, we added a sprinkler system to distribute the water more thoroughly and consistently.

The final green roof system had to be functional and durable enough for long-term success. The result was a composition of flowing native plants that replicated a natural Californian drought-tolerant landscape.

• For maximum efficiency, executed an install procedure with two teams of 6: preparation and planting.
• Strategically designated grassy areas for plant technician maintenance to prevent walking on more delicate specimens.