Roof garden at student housing on Kop van Zuid
1,100 m² of rooftop wildflower meadow
Right in the heart of Rotterdam, we completed a large-scale green roof project on the student housing complex of SSH Student Housing. A native rooftop flower meadow was created on a roof area of over 1,100 m², contributing to biodiversity, water retention, and climate adaptation in the city.
In collaboration with Dakbloemenweide, IKO Waterproofing and Insulation EU, and Oranjedak, the roof has been transformed from a functional roof surface into a vibrant green landscape. By choosing native plants, the green roof integrates with the local ecology and creates a valuable habitat for bees, butterflies, and other insects.
Results
Enhancing urban biodiversity
Improved water retention and delayed runoff of rainwater
Contributing to climate adaptation in the city center
Green and ecological benefits for student housing
Extended service life of the underlying roofing material
This project in Rotterdam highlights how rooftop flower meadows offer significant added value even in highly urbanized areas. It is a large-scale and technically challenging project that demonstrates how collaboration leads to sustainable and future-proof solutions.
Biodiversity and Water Retention in Urban Areas
In a densely built-up area like Rotterdam, green space is scarce. This project demonstrates how rooftops can contribute to a healthier and climate-resilient city. The rooftop flower meadow helps temporarily retain rainwater and release it more slowly, thereby reducing the strain on the sewer system during heavy rainfall.
In addition, the green roof helps cool the building on hot days and creates a more pleasant living environment around it. Thanks to support from the water board and the City of Rotterdam, this project was able to be implemented on a large scale.
Construction at a complex inner-city location
The location at Kop van Zuid presented a number of challenges. With high-rise buildings, the nearby cruise terminal, and a tight logistics schedule, careful coordination among all parties involved was essential.
It is precisely in this complex urban environment that the project demonstrates what is possible when design, technology, and collaboration come together. Despite limited space and logistical challenges, space has been created in the heart of the city for nature and biodiversity.
