The importance of the green roof
The green roof is one of the standout design and sustainability features of the First Building in Bradfield City.
Designed with climate resilience in mind, it acts as a ‘living shield’. It helps to keep the building cool and improves the energy efficiency of the biosolar rooftop by cooling the solar panels.
An important design feature, the green roof blends into the tree canopy of the Cumberland Plain, sitting lightly in the landscape.
The team behind the green roof
The green roof was planted by Three Owls Landscaping, a Sydney-based family business, owned and operated by Richard Downes alongside his wife and son. Richard has over 50 years of experience in horticulture, and has been working on green roof projects for 20 years. The First Building at Bradfield City is the largest green roof project he has worked on to date.
Richard and his son weed, prune, check moisture levels, check the irrigation system and lines during each weekly service.
Watch this video to hear from Richard about his experience.
First Building garden rooftop with Rick Downes
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Think Mammoth
Interactive diagram of the green roof
This diagram shows the high-tech layers of drainage and soil beneath the planting on the green roof. It also features six of the key plant species.
Green infrastructure at Bradfield City
The First Building and its green roof are exemplars for future development at Bradfield City. The City has a target of 80% green roof coverage or biosolar systems on available roof space to combat urban heat.
Visitors to the First Building at Bradfield City, including local schools, community groups, businesses and industry, experience the wonder of the green roof during their visit. It is educating visitors about sustainability, biodiversity and the importance of greening public infrastructure by making use of available roof space.

