Flourish Magazine

FALL/WINTER 2014 • FLOURISH 11 they absorb and filter between 60 and 100 percent of the storm water that falls on a building—resulting in less contamination to local sewer systems and natural water- ways. "A living roof can help residential and commercial building owners meet county and city regulations related to storm water," says Falkerson. "Even if some storm water does start to run off a living roof, the water is delayed. That helps municipal systems, which are often overwhelmed by a surge of water immediately after a big storm." Ancient Wisdom, Modern Practice Protecting and insulating a building by covering it with vegetation is an ancient concept that saw a revival during the eco- design movement of the 1970s. Today's improved design strategies and new ma- terials make it easier for architects and construction managers to implement living roofs. Plus, there are powerful motivators. Appropriately designed living roofs can help building projects comply with Califor- nia's new Green Building Standards and earn points toward coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. In California, installation of living roofs occurs primarily as part of an extensive renovation project or new building con- struction. It's best to introduce the living roof concept early into a construction project, not only to ensure structural integ- rity but also to build in features that work best according to a roof's slope. A steeply pitched roof, for example, requires more soil stabilization, whereas a flat roof might need to be modified to ensure adequate drainage. In the wine industry, vegetative systems have been used atop wine storage and processing buildings in order to maintain a wine-friendly temperature of 55 degrees inside. Again, projects range from massive to tiny depending on the size and budget of the winery. The Martorana family win- ery in Healdsburg is built into the hillside, resulting in a structure that blends into the landscape rather than imposing upon it. The sides of the winery are covered with Petite Sirah vines and the living roof is planted with sedums, providing natural air-conditioning and attracting beneficial insects. "Our guests love walking on the win- ery's roof and learning more about it," says Wendy Cox, hospitality manager at Martorana Family Winery. "Relaxing with a glass of wine while enjoying the impressive views from our living roof is the ultimate Dry Creek experience." Living Roofs at Work Two recent SYMBIOS projects exemplify the visual and practical benefits of install- ing a living roof. Green Acre Farm, just outside the town Certified Green Business & 100% Solar Powered Since 2006 Your Concerns... Our Solutions. e Best In Self Storage Open 7 Days a Week Award Winning Self Storage 2012 Heroes of Marin Environmental Stewardship Awardee Awarded Green Business of the Year 2012 by the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce Supporter of San Rafael Clean Campaign Member of Marin Clean Energy Solar Power Water Conservation Packing Solutions Lighting Recycle Open 7 24 Bellam Blvd., San Rafael • 415-454-1983 • www.bellamstorage.com Stay Green.... purchase your Moving Boxes and Packing Supplies at Bellam Self Storage. Best Selection, Best Prices, made from recycled materials. View from the roof at Martorana Winery in Healdsburg. Photo courtesy Wendy Cox.

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