ESRI Canada Green Roof Landscape Architect Scott Torrance Landscape Architect Inc.
Occupying an unused 9th floor paved terrace, the design converted the space into a fully usable green
Client ESRI Canada Limited
methods to create a space that addressed the needs of the entire office while remaining cost-effective and low
Location Ontario, Canada
areas for office meetings, lunch breaks and bird habitat and enhances the client’s corporate profile.
Area 740 m²
outdoor rooms. A staff garden is located adjacent to the kitchen and break room, while a public seating area is
Photographer Margaret Mulligan, Scott Torrance, Lei Chang
roof and outdoor amenity space. The design process employed innovative design techniques and delivery maintenance. Integrating both extensive and semi-intensive planting methods, the completed roof provides Based on the interior layout and existing roof structure, the roof garden was divided into a series of unique located at the main reception area. Meeting rooms are located adjacent to more densely planted areas, while an outdoor meeting room is located adjacent to the Human Resources department. Semi-intensive vertical accent planters (1200mm deep) were restricted to locations with the highest load capacities (columns). Areas with moderate load capacity (structural beams) were populated with smaller semi-intensive vertical planters (600mm deep) and hedges. Extensive green roof modules (100mm and 150mm deep) were placed in areas with the lowest load capacities. Vertical planters and coniferous hedges frame the perimeter of the roof, providing a green edge while allowing for a view beyond the designed space. Within the roof area the vertical planters define the outdoor rooms. Planting areas used a palette of 39 plant species ranging from traditional green roof species (sedum sp.) to perennials and grasses to create a dynamic and diverse carpet. Using pre-planted modules created an ‘instant’ garden. The linear design and plant palette responds to and masks site restrictions, providing a compelling view for tenants and neighbouring buildings. Year-round visual interest, coupled with aromatic plantings, provide dynamic scenery and unique experiences for users throughout the seasons.
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