Urban Roof Gardens

We can transform the thousands of neglected urban rooftops in London into valuable green spaces in the sky. Benefiting all urban dwellers. Those whose space it is and can enojy it. Those who can see it and can enjoy the green view. And the rest of us who’ll enjoy the green benefits of roof gardens.

Green roofs and roof gardens in cities are common in many urban centres throughout the world. Toronto, Chicago, New York, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Melbourne, Tokyo. London, lags. That is our challenge.

Our mission

To raise awareness of the benefits of urban roof gardens, terraces and green roofs. To collate and publish world-class research and best-practice relating to urban roof gardens. And to offer concept to completion advice and services to both the lay and the professional citizen wishing to build urban roof gardens.

Concept to Completion

Feasibility and design

Existing terraces, flat roofs and balconies are obvious to all. But a trained eye will spot other opportunities for green spaces. And professional help in translating requirements into outline designs is essential.

Planning and building approvals

Statutory approval for roof gardens will almost certainly be required, and London’s Mayor has given his personal endorsement in no less than three of his objectives in The London Plan for green roofs and roof gardens. Then methodical engineering calculations will determine whether strengthening of the existing roof structure will be required (and it is surprising how light the modern materials are).
Architectural design

Roof gardens are architectural spaces, requiring careful consideration of both form and function, and the appropriate selection of materials, textures and finishes. Lighting, sound, heating, irrigation and other services may also need to be considered.

Landscape and planting design

As the interior designer dresses the spaces created by architects, so roof gardens need “exterior design”, encompassing both hard (furniture, decking, fabrics) and soft (planting) elements. Modern roof gardens utilise a wide range of low-maintenance plants which easily can withstand the extremes often found on roofs.

Construction

The use of modern lightweight materials requires a contractor who has experience in these matters. Combined with a high degree of care and attention to detail, since materials often have to be moved through existing living spaces, and the finish required is more akin to shopfitting.

Maintenance

Low maintenance the design and planting may be, but consideration also needs to be given to on-going maintenance and upkeep.

Urban Roof Gardens
42 The Grove
London W5 5LH

Tel: 0800 652 8848
E-mail: info@urbanroofgardens.com
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Building Design and Construction Services Directory providing information for Architects, Building Services Engineers and Facility Managers.

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Tel : 01622 745333