The Wonder of Modular Green Roofing

We were recently approached by BetweenBricks, an architectural collective based in London who were working on a series of projects as part of the OPEN HOUSE scheme.

What Is Open House?

OPEN HOUSE is a series of events where buildings and sections of London not previously available to the general public are opened up to allow visitors. They were organising a guided tour of the secret green spaces in London had an idea to try to green up bus stops and other traffic hubs, to create better environments. They needed an easy to install and easy to take away solution as the OPEN HOUSE event was taking place only across a weekend.

The Ideal Solution

We immediately knew that our M-Tray modular green roof system was ideal and offered to donate the plants and fittings.

We offered guidance and advice on how to install the modules on a cantilever metal roofed bus stop and delivered them overnight to the “Silicone Roundabout” area of Old Street in the east of the City.

Sedum Green Roof Construction

BetweenBricks constructed a sedum green roof on the bus stop and introduced other plants in the vicinity to create a natural space in which passengers could enjoy the experience of waiting for a bus.

They included the idea and technical aspects of the “green bus stop” into the walking guided tour they were organising as part of OPEN HOUSE and the response was extremely positive.

Easy Installation

BetweenBricks were keen to stress the ease of installation with the minimum of disruption and explained to the people who joined the tour that they are making representations to Tfl regarding installing these types of green roofs on many more bus shelters across London.

The response was overwhelming, according to BetweenBricks. The public were extremely interested in the concept of an easy way to create attractive habitats on lost space in the city. A lot of passers-by stopped to take photos and ask questions about the concept of the “instant greening” and supported the idea of it being extended throughout London.

What Did BetweenBricks Say?

Laura Rowland of BetweenBricks said:

“The event went really well………….. There were over 1,000 people who looked [at] the installation as they passed, around 300 people stopped to have a closer look and another 100 people stopped to ask questions or talk to us about it. ………..There was overwhelming support and interest with our idea from people that stopped to talk to us. ……..

Between Bricks are very keen to take this idea forward and speak to tfl, the local council and other interest groups about installing green roofs on existing bus stops. ……

The sedum roof was a huge part in the success of the installation and we wouldn’t have been able to put it on without it. Thank you so much”

A Long Term Commitment

Wallbarn remains committed to supporting this concept as we feel that instant sedum roofs and coverings as we feel it not only makes ugly and lost spaces attractive and a haven for wildlife; it can protect those decks from exposure to the elements, reduce pollution and offer localised cooling benefits to the environment.