The Growing Strength Of Green Architecture
Like all revolutionary ideas with roots, they grow exponentially. As is the case with green buildings. Beyond walls and alcoves, a trend is growing around the world to add foliage such as small plants, shrubs, and even trees, to the exterior surfaces of a towering building, along with innovative use made of high rise rooftops. Green buildings deliver the same benefits of vertical gardens, yet multiply their impact significantly. The more foliage and vegetation utilised, the greater the positive benefit to people and the environment.
THE GLOBAL TREND FOR FOLIAGE SYSTEMS
Across the globe, cities are overshadowed by concrete buildings, with parkland decreasing dramatically. Many cities are responding to this by taking charge of their environments and combining foliage systems across buildings to balance out greenery vs construction.
It’s encouraging to see that cities are taking action and by doing so, they are creating more oxygen and absorbing more carbon dioxide in their environment. Not only does this lead to healthier lifestyles but the visual impact is extraordinary.
On a global level, the concept of using a building’s roof to grow plants for a wide range of purposes is spreading. ‘Green roofs’ have been created to provide additional public spaces such as playgrounds, and have even been used to grow food for community garden projects.
GREEN BUILDING BENEFITS FOR ALL
The concept also reaps its rewards for more than simply children and foodies. Green buildings on a whole, increase the biodiversity of urban environments – welcome news to regional birds and insects who continue to lose ground to commercial and residential development.
Architects are continuously designing new innovative methods of sending plants skywards, through vertical gardens fostered on the sides of building, extraordinary rooftop designs, foliage facades, green walls and so much more.
Galeria de SkyVilla. WOHA. SCDA Architects. Singapore
Here at SRS Group, we are chomping at the bit to get involved in a green building project here in New Zealand or afar. If this is a dream you also share, then talk to us first about how we can bring this vision to life together. These methods are introducing a fresh urban flair back into the city, recreating a connection to the earth.