How Florida Green Roofs are Born - an Idea and a Sketch

Where does one start on a green roof project?  For me it is with an idea then a rough sketch.

Florida Green Roof ideas start with a client's idea, then to a sketch. Great projects start with a simple idea.

 Many times the first sketch creates more ideas and those thoughts open more doors to expanded imagination.

Sometimes the idea may be shelved, but I suspect never forgotten.  Once an idea is created the concept has been released to the universe and could be around for a very long time.

Fabulous art deco building in the planning process for rehabilitation.

This building will be a health food, yoga and coffee shop in the near future.  The owner desires to incorporate vertical green.  We start with an idea and a sketch.

Some of the first issues we discuss include:

• Structural capabilities (the roof is reinforced concrete)
• City permitting requirements for landscape and stormwater
• Wind exposure
• Sun intensity
• Budget
• Maintenance
• Theme
• Adjoining buildings, and
• so much more

But all journeys start with an idea.  Like a seed, the first thought grows and begins to take root.  Soon new forms appear.  Over time the creation matures, one step at a time, beginning with an idea.

My advice to all green roof and living wall designers is, "dream and let ideas flow".