Mann Library Green Roof

This elevated courtyard on the Cornell University campus was designed to convert a roof into a human occupiable landscape. It features modular planting trays and permeable hardscape, which together store water and reduce run-off. The Green Roof is a favorite “secret” garden to students and faculty, but its seclusion means that not many frequent it.

My design remedies puddling problems by making the existing drainage scheme visible in an attractive water feature, culminating in a fountain alongside the stairs. This fountain replaces an obstructing pillar and provides a more inviting entrance to the garden. The design also improves circulation with an additional staircase and adds variety and interest to the ground plane by terracing the existing planting trays. Seasonal vegetative interest and nighttime lighting complete the reimagined design.