With the increase of student population from the construction of the West Campus Student Housing, emphasis was placed on creating rooftop open space. These new construction projects created the opportunity for intensive green roof courtyards above podium style parking garages. Native and adapted shrubs, grasses and vines combine with an effecient drip irrigation system to create an accessible rooftop gathering space for student residents. With building structural loads limiting use of trees, lightweight shade arbors with ceiling fans and an outdoor shower create relief for the midday summer sun. Raised planters with seat walls allowed soil depths to reach 21" for plant beds and 12" for the lawn area. The project received a 2 star rating from Austin Energy Green Building.
