Plant Fantasies and FXFOWLE Architects recently conducted a tour of the green roof at 250 Hudson Street for members of the Urban Green Council, the New York chapter of the US Green Building Council (USGBC). Scott Melching, FXFOWLE project architect for 250 Hudson Street, and Michael Tull, landscape designer for Plant Fantasies, explained the sustainable aspects of the intensive and extensive green roof to tour participants. The fully tenant-accessible roof has spectacular views of the Hudson River, the New Jersey skyline and downtown Manhattan.To create a prairie-like look that would last from spring through fall for the roof, Plant Fantasies President Teresa Carleo carefully selected plantings that are wind- and weather-resistant and will grow to the proper scale. For example, white crabapple trees will remain low, while Boston ivy vines and Clematis are shade-tolerant and intertwining. Tull and Melching noted that the green roof significantlyreduces the heat island effect of paved roofs, making the building warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer; features self-irrigating and drainage systems; and uses dense, non-decaying woods as trellises. The renovated building that once housed a printing press is owned by Jack Resnick & Sons, owner/developers who focus on sustainability at all properties.“The exquisite natural setting is sure to enhance both the morale and productivity of the building’s tenants,” said tour participant Karen Hotte, a representative for DuPont Building Innovations.
