GREEN ROOF MAINTENANCE FOR COMPLEX MICROCLIMATES
Designed by KPMB Architects and completed in 2022, this iconic building is a striking feature of the Boston skyline, often described as a “Jenga tower” or a stack of books. The building includes multiple levels of green roofs, each with its own unique microclimate shaped by intense glass reflections, high winds, and the risk of soil erosion.

Originally installed by others, the green roofs experienced early challenges due to these extreme conditions. Boston University turned to Recover Green Roofs to restore and stabilize the landscapes, bringing in specialized horticultural expertise to address the site’s complex needs.

Our experienced horticulture and maintenance team provides a tailored approach to caring for these dynamic environments, which feature a diverse mix of sedum, perennials, and pollinator-friendly species. Through seasonal plant care, irrigation adjustments, organic pest management, soil testing, debris removal, and detailed system inspections, we ensure these high-profile rooftop gardens remain healthy, resilient, and beautiful year-round.These green roofs have also become important urban habitats, supporting increased biodiversity with regular sightings of bees, butterflies, and even a red-tailed hawk (photo below) perched on a railing.

Recover’s customized maintenance program plays a key role in keeping these high-performance green roofs thriving despite challenging urban microclimates, supporting both ecological function and the building’s striking architectural design.