Alternate Rooftop Options


We would like to present a rooftop development plan that builds on the ideas discussed at the last AGM. As with any creative process, it's essential to explore ideas from all angles and see constraints as a source of inspiration. There are always alternative possibilities, and it can be valuable to explore them.
 
We fully appreciate the effort behind the initial proposal and share the same goal of enhancing the rooftop space. However, we believe there are other ways to achieve these improvements which do not fundamentally change the character of the rooftop as originally sold to owners, which we would like to propose for consideration.
 
Firstly, we agree that some elements of the previous plan are good. 
 
Consulting with Tim, the horticulturist from the Nightingale WWB building, is a valuable suggestion, as his expertise would undoubtedly guide us toward a more thoughtful and sustainable design. 
 
Additionally, returning the lawn area to the original curved shape, as intended in the initial garden design but never completed by Ironside, is a positive step.
 
We do suggest that it is not really reasonable to fundamentally change the nature of the rooftop area through the use an unproven substrate without community approval. Especially if the changes will result in increased heating of the rooftop area by replacing cooling grass with concrete, brick or plastic material.
 
With this in mind, we propose an alternative that we believe meets most of the objectives without making any fundamental changes to the nature of the rooftop, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and the rooftop space is improved in a practical, community-conscious way.
 
 It aims to meet the core objectives of the previous plan without compromising the amenity of the lawn area or undermining the efforts and resources already invested in the productive garden space. 

Grass Area Issues

  • the grass was never properly planted
  • the buried irrigation system is ineffective, as water is directed into the sand beneath the grass rather than top-watering as grass requires
  • the grass has suffered damage from heavy use and some areas have died off completely
  • the original proposal suggests removing the grass entirely and replacing it with semi-permeable pavers

Considerations

  • pavers will still require watering during the drier months to prevent the small tufts of grass within from dying, but they cannot be irrigated and would need to be watered with sprinklers
  • whether made from concrete, brick, or a plastic hybrid, these materials will reflect and store heat, making the rooftop significantly hotter in the summer
  • the aesthetic may resemble that of a car park or driveway, as these are the most common uses for such pavers
  • this approach is likely to be more expensive than simply replanting the grass area properly


Why retain the grass area?

  • It provides a cool, comfortable space amidst a rooftop environment dominated by hot, heat-retaining surfaces such as concrete, tiles, wooden decking, and steel walls
  • The grass was an integral part of the original design and was highlighted as a key feature during the sale of the property
  • It is loved and used by many residents (including dogs) and contributes to the overall appeal of the building, enhancing their living experience
  • Semi-permeable (SP) pavers are not used on any of the Nightingale rooftops; introducing a material that lacks precedent in communal rooftop areas raises questions about its suitability


Recommendation

  • we propose a well-installed and properly water grass area that is smaller in size, complemented by enlarged and reshaped garden beds 
  • this approach would significantly reduce water usage while enhancing the maintainability of the grass
  • to further protect the grass, we suggest reshaping the entry point to prevent damage caused by dogs running from the deck onto the grass at high speeds
  • we would use a hardy native grass, probably Burra Weeping grass (Microlaena stipoides) which has high drought & frost tolerance, but is still quite soft, and stays green all year round
  • additionally, we could include natural stone stepping stones to create a meandering path across the lawn. A cluster of stones could be arranged in one area to provide a space for comfortable outdoor furniture, creating a delightful nook for reading or relaxation amidst the greenery.
  • this design approach is similar to that of the Wurru Wurru Biik/ Yambook rooftop, the latest Nightingale building located just north of Albion St.