Author(s): Theodore Osmundson

Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company; 1st edition (November 1997)

Hardcover: 320 pages

ISBN: 0393730123

ISBN-13: 978-0393730128

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Sometimes called “green roofs” by promoters of sustainable architecture, roof gardens have stimulated much discussion among architects and urban planners. A great many roof gardens, from intimate private enclaves to enormous public spaces have been built in the last fifty years. But there has been little formal research into the systems that support successful roof gardens, the technical requirements of a long-lived, healthy roof garden — nor about the costly failures that can result when such requirements are ignored.

In the first comprehensive study published in English, respected landscape architect Theodore Osmundson provides the practical information professionals need to be able to include well-designed and well-constructed roof gardens in their projects. Roof Gardens covers site considerations, construction, design elements, and maintenance, as well as useful data and sources of supply and information. It presents a wealth of material, including typical sections and details of raised planters, walls, paving, drainage and lighting. It also discusses planting soils and root-proofing. New construction techniques — largely unknown in the United States are also reviewed.

In addition, Roof Gardens offers a richly illustrated tour of roof gardens around the world and through history.

“This should become the guidebook on the subject of roof gardens, acquired by every landscape architect employed in the task of greening cities and buildings.”-Ian McHarg, FASLA

“This long-awaited treatise on rooftop landscape architecture is . . . an authoritative work . . . a practical, creative, and stimulating book that is bound to make a difference.”-John Ormsbee Simonds, FASLA

1999, 320 pages, 100 in color, Hardcover