GMB Receives Landscape Architecture Citation for GRCC Vegetated Roof
American School & University magazine has selected GMB Architecture + Engineering for a Landscape Architecture Citation on the Grand Rapids Community College Vegetated Roof project.
GMB A+E was honored along with 20 other national entries selected from 178 projects.
Grand Rapids Community College commissioned GMB A+E to design a 21,000 square foot vegetated roof on the second level of the 20 year old Applied Technology Center building and to renovate a plaza incorporating the same green roof technology on the first level of the building, with a goal of enhancing an “al fresco” dining experience for their Secchia Institute for Culinary Education program.
Liveroof pre-vegetated roof modules were selected for the basis of the roof design. New windows, door access, and an observation deck were also added to the project to create maximum contact and viewing. Additionally, educational plaques located on the roof and plaza graphically demonstrate the roof system and provide explanations of plant types and colors. Students of all ages, as well as the public, will be encouraged to learn about the plants and the roof’s benefits as well as sustainability.
Thomas Smith, Director of Facilities for GRCC, points out that there are many benefits to a green roof, some less visible than others. “The roof itself can actually save the college money because it enhances the roof’s longevity and provides insulation year-around. It even enhances acoustics in the building.” Smith added that green roofs absorb rain, a feature that provides some relief to the city’s storm water system, lessening the threat of overflow that pollutes our rivers that flow into Lake Michigan.
The vegetation design for the second floor roof area was derived from the circular shape of the building’s three story atrium. Three sedum mixes were used to enhance the radial pattern of the design. The plaza area incorporates raised landscape block planters filled with the same vegetated module tray system.
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