|
Photo Source: ZinCo International
3/98 Brochure |
|
Throughout Europe, underground parking garages utilize
greenroof systems to take advantage of all the environmental benefits of a
traditional intensive greenroof, while also
providing structurally
sound and stunning landscaped recreational areas to area users and residents.
Previously unused,
and often barren, space now can be designed for public enjoyment.
Earth-sheltered buildings are worth mentioning
here because
they offer some similar design solutions and environmental benefits, but are not
technically considered greenroofs. Greenroof build-up systems can be
customized for these applications.
Whereas
there is a distinct height separation from the earth to the roof with greenroofs,
at some point earth
shelters form a continuous layer between the ground and the roof. Basically,
they are built directly into the earth. Their most similar features are the
energy-saving insulation aspect, and the natural architectural integration of
earth and structure. Energy costs for earth shelters run approximately 40 to 70%
less than those for equivalent above-ground structures (The London Ecology Unit,
1993).
Introduction | History | Extensive Greenroofs | Intensive Greenroofs | Underground Parking Garages | Why | Conclusion
Back to Top
|
