An adaptive reuse project for Harvard University, the project at 29 Garden Street transformed a former police station and parking garage into a new residence hall for graduate students, faculty, and employees. A second-floor courtyard above the existing garage created a new garden amenity space for the buildings’ residents. New shade tree plantings and sidewalk paving revitalized the pedestrian environment on Garden and Chauncy Streets.
Working with limited soil loading capacity on structure, RBA designed two masses of sedum species in alternating bands of yellows and reds to reduce bulk weight. Wood decking and unit paver paths cut through the vegetative composition and intensive planters with flowering trees and evergreen hedges were added to provide screening from surrounding buildings. This notable example of a sustainable green roof design in the Boston area continues to be the most sought after residence hall on Harvard’s campus.