Bookmen Stacks, Minneapolis, MN


Green Rooftop, 8750 sq. ft.

Client:
Bookmen Stacks, Minneapolis, MN

Project:
The owner of Bookmen Stacks, a new 10-story residential loft development in downtown Minneapolis, wished to provide a beautiful green park area for new residents that conformed to both urban space constraints and local ordinances.

Challenge:
The goal of RESI was to create a functional, beautiful, and environmentally sound urban green space that met the sensitive weight requirements for rooftop gardens.

RESI Solution:
A Muellner Green Roof System was installed to create a space-efficient green area, and a system of reflex mesh elements was installed in the grass to allow foot traffic while preventing damage. An Environmental Passive Integrated Chamber (EPIC) System was installed for efficient sub-surface irrigation.

Results:
By incorporating the Muellner system into the design, RESI was able to provide an efficient stormwater management tool that supports pedestrian traffic and recreational use, while reducing the weight of a traditional 12” sand profile by over 40%. The grass not only serves as a functional roof covering, but also provides insulation for the building, extends the life of the roof, increases oxygen production and reduces carbon dioxide. The use of the EPIC System saves over 50% in typical water usage, provides sub-surface irrigation for the turf, and eliminates or reduces the risk of building stains and the effects of wind on irrigation patterns. Shut-off floats can minimize the loss of water from the system, and sub-surface irrigation benefits are not limited to the alleviation of environmental concerns. Because sub-surface irrigation renders traditional sprinkler systems unnecessary, the green space can be more safely used, mowed, and maintained at any time.