Vision

The Zen Green Roof at 124 Queen is the first of its kind in the Niagara-on-the-Lake Region in Ontario. Situated on the rooftop of an underground parking garage, the project brings life to an otherwise ordinary grey structure. The unique design of the Zen Green Roof sets a precedent for future podiums to promote the integration of community and environment. The area can be enjoyed by pollinators and people alike with the various vegetation ranging from flowering perennials to large trees. The incorporation of accessible areas allows the community to become one with their surroundings and directly benefit and learn from nature.

Design

The concept design for this project was completed by ZinCo’s in-house design team. The layout was further refined by Environmental Design Group, whom went on to complete the install.

This roof boasts 1,800 sq.m (20,000 sq.ft) of mixed extensive-, intensive-green roof, hardscaping, landscaping, and water features. The roofscape is seamless to the point it’s tough to believe you’re on the roof of a parking garage.

Green Roof Assembly

The type of green roof system used is a blend of ZinCo’s Perennial Garden assembly and Roof Garden assembly. It can best be described as a multifunctional green roof buildup with high water storage capacity. It supports a wide range of plant material and landscape design. It is suitable for lawns, perennial plants and with deeper growing medium, shrubs and trees. In addition, it integrates with hardscapes like walkways, terraces, driveways, ponds or play areas, making any landscape design a possibility. The Zen Green Roof at 124 Queen perfectly captures nearly all the potential a green roof can offer.