Integrating green roofs into urban spaces

In a world where concrete and steel dominate our skylines, green roofs offer a breath of fresh air. They’re not just visually appealing - they help insulate buildings, manage rainwater, and increase biodiversity in urban environments, making cities more liveable and beautiful.

What is a green roof?

A green roof is a layer of vegetation planted over a waterproofing system that’s installed on top of a slightly sloped roof.

Benefits of green roofs

Green roofs have a significant environmental impact as they reduce the urban heat island effect.

The vegetation in a green roof can help filter out pollutants and provide habitats for birds and insects, as well as fuel for pollinators.

In terms of stormwater management, green roofs absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and decreasing the load on city drainage systems.

On top of that a well-designed green roof can transform a stark plain roof into a lush, inviting space for growing a range of plants, herbs and flowers.

Green roof considerations

When planning a green roof, consider these key factors:
Choose a product with a high-quality waterproof membrane and a sloped roof to further support drainage.

Go for plants suited to your climate and the specific conditions of where your roof will be placed (thinking about sunlight, wind exposure etc.). Also make sure you choose plants suitable for shallow planting, which you can read more information on here.

Green roofs at home

You don’t need a lot of space to enjoy the benefits of a green roof. Bluum offers products like green-roof-ready garden storage units and bin, recycling, log and bike shelters that bring this eco-friendly innovation to domestic gardens and small urban spaces.

Green roofs are a smart, sustainable way to beautify and improve urban spaces. Whether you're a homeowner or renting, incorporating green roofing into your life can have a profound impact on the environment and the quality of life in a city.