When the New York Genome Center embarked on a major expansion, they dreamed of a roof garden. Viridian delivered the dream. Working with the client’s fast-track schedule—design to garden in 6 months— Viridian invited Roofmeadow, pioneers and leading experts in green roof design and technology to support them. We embraced the magnificent New York skyline and quickly recognized that this 10,000sf outdoor space should serve as more than a backdrop for the workings of this scientific organization, but rather its “creative heart.” The space serves scientists, administrators, donors and movers and shakers. Outdoor rooms allow for varied user interactions: dining rooms for meeting and eating, living rooms for brainstorming and dreaming rooms in which to refresh oneself and vision. The north terrace collaborative space, the first garden completed, looks to the Empire State Building and is set within a rich and varied landscape that responds to the unique high roof microclimates.

 

Viridian worked closely with the client, architects, structural engineers, code consultants, construction managers and the building owner to deliver a dynamic space for the organization while responding to interior improvements, structural constraints and lease requirements. The project was produced on time and on budget within a limited timeframe.

 

It opened to great acclaim on 19 September as part of the official opening of the $54 million, 170,000-square-foot facility in Manhattan (link). Fundraising for the south terrace is currently underway.