Installed in May 2009, the green roof on the second floor of Schleman Hall of Student Services provides visitors with patio relaxation and study areas surrounded by a vegetative oasis. The project was spurred by the student-run Boiler Green Initiative and was one of the group’s
first projects. 

The surface of the roof is covered with reflective pavers intended to optimize the amount of green space while maintaining a sufficiently usable area. The majority of plantings are sedum, a hardy, highly adaptable perennial capable of surviving long droughts in the summer and harsh Midwestern winters. 

Utilizing plants in place of more traditional roofing
materials such as concrete slabs or shingles greatly improves the energy efficiency of the building, reduces storm-water runoff, increases biodiversity, and reduces the heat-island effect.

A second green roof installed in 2012 on the Hampton Hall of Civil Engineering was spearheaded by the Civil Engineering Student Advisory Council. The student gathering space was conceived as a living laboratory space that offers students opportunities to study and work on
sustainability and green initiatives in a real-world setting. The roof features various soil and plant media, sensors to measure energy flux, and a weather station. It also is used for hydraulics research, incorporating a rainwater-collection system.

What are your favorite hidden gems on campus? Let us know in the comments below.