CSIRO

Cities around the world are becoming denser, with greater built form resulting in more hard surfaces and less green space. One way of creating more natural environments within cities is to incorporate green roofs and walls in new buildings or to retrofit them in existing structures.

From our own Parliament House, to the underground homes in Coober Pedy, living architecture is becoming a part of our iconic designs. And it's also a trend that will continue to grow as we face the issues of climate change, and the predicted increased temperatures which result in an urban heat island effect.

A new publication from CSIRO PUBLISHING, Living Architecture, explains the very real benefits of turning modern buildings into living walls and roofs, complete with a range of case studies, and information on how to get your own building growing.

Some of the benefits of green roofs an living walls for the wider community include:

• reducing the urban heat island effect
• air pollution reduction
• stormwater management and improved water quality
• urban agriculture opportunities
• reclaiming urban wastelands

However individual home owners can also clothe their buildings in green, and enjoy benefits such as:

• reduced energy consumption and temperature control
• insulation and reduction of noise level
• improved indoor air quality
• increased market value

Living Architecture provides design inspiration and practical advice. This book will appeal to a wide range of readers interested in how they can more effectively use the rooftops and walls of their homes, workplaces, and community, to increase green open space in the urban environment.