Boulogne : BA4

Each panel is offset from the next, creating horizontal channels where water, dust and pollen can accumulate, creating an environment  which encourages plant growth. Vertical cracks between each panel allow rainwater from the roof to drain through the pockets of porous concrete underneath. Here, vegetation such as moss, ferns and lichens can grow.

In order to emphasise the terraced morphology of the building and to maintain the feeling of openness in the concerted development area (ZAC), the landscape on the roof is planted in gradation. We move gradually from the hardscape of the schoolyard through the vegetable roof gardens and the wild orchard towards the densely planted trees by the Jules Guesde traverse. This ecological reserve is mostly inaccessible apart from a practical ‘floating’ footbridge. The pathway towards the vegetable gardens is playful; children can move along a path through tall planting, past a view point and over a bridge connecting two buildings. Here, at 12m above ground level, the children can see the entire surrounding built environment.