Can it be done? Yes! The Pusey Library at Harvard is tucked 1/2
underground and has a planted plaza with a lawn, shrubs and walkways
above. It was built in 1976 and houses a map collection and a theater
collection. This is what is being called an "intensive" green roof as
opposed to an "extensive" green roof which uses a thin, lightweight,
growing medium.

Should it be done? It depends :)
Would you do this for energy savings? A light reflecting membrane
roof could also save energy.
Would you do this to control stormwater runoff? Stormwater runoff
could possibly be controlled at or below grade.
Would you do this to reduce the heat island effect, provide green
space and blend in with the beautiful landscape of Ithaca? It would
be very effective for this if you have weighed the risks.
What kind of collections do you have? Sculpture? Farm equipment? Fine
Art on paper? Would a possible leak that was difficult to locate pose
a major inconvenience or worse?
There is technology available now that can pinpoint a leak if it
happens but that will cost you extra. The added cost and risk would
weigh against a vegetated roof over a fine arts collection. Less so
over administrative offices, restaurants, museum store. I'd consider
an extensive roof before an intensive roof but it is al least worth
considering.

Mike


>Date:    Wed, 13 Dec 2006 17:50:37 -0500
>From:    Cheryl Kramer <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Another facilities questions
>
>Hello all,
>
>Thank you for all of your advice on ceiling height.  Any thoughts on
>aroof garden (i.e. a 2' layer of dirt and plants across the entire
>roof)or a green roof for a Museum/Gallery?
>
>Thank you so much in advance.
>
>Cheryl
>
>Dr. Cheryl Kramer
>Director, Handwerker Gallery
>Gannett Center
>Ithaca College
>Ithaca, NY  14850

--
*****************************************************************
Michael McHugh AIA, LEED AP
LEED Program Director
E. Verner Johnson and Associates
Museum Architects and Planners
300 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02115
tel:   617-437-6262
fax:  617-437-1272
http://www.vernerjohnson.com

=========================================================
Important Subscriber Information:

The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes).

If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).