Planting on a roof begins with the conditions we create for the roots.
01 / Context
The rooftop terrace is open to the east, south and west. Planting along its edges creates a green frame, while the route between the planters stays clear. Trees help organise the space from the outset.
02 / Constraints
Exposure to sun and wind, together with a limited soil volume, sets the growing conditions. Tree selection is therefore linked to root space, water availability and care after planting.
03 / The design decision
Common hornbeam (Carpinus betulus) was selected for most of the trees. Planters follow the terrace edge and façade, while varied planting heights give depth to the long space. Construction photographs show the planters’ structure and arrangement before planting.
04 / The space after planting
In their second growing season, the trees continued to grow after several strong storms. This is an encouraging early sign of establishment; their long-term development still needs to be monitored.
05 / Maintenance is part of the design
On a rooftop terrace, the project doesn’t end with planting. Regular care and observation are part of keeping the space working in the long term, so we continue to follow its development after completion.
