The Da Vinci Discovery Center Project
This month we’re spotlighting the Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science & Technology, located at 815 Hamilton St. in Allentown, PA. Da Vinci is an educational institution dedicated to STEM. This project, encompassing 10,568 square feet, was completed in April 2024 and is the vision of Barry Isett & Associates. The installation was carried out by The Warko Group, under the general contracting of the Butz Family of Companies.
The Da Vinci Discovery Center is dedicated to STEM education, and the green roof serves as an educational tool, providing a real-life example of green infrastructure. It is useful in teaching ecology, sustainable practices, engineering and thermodynamics. Visible from the café and outdoor seating area, the LiveRoof® installation inspires the ever-increasing need for sustainable practices in urban environments, a relatively new concept in Allentown.
Additional Benefits and Features of this Green Roof
Aside from its educational values LiveRoof® at the Da Vinci Discovery Center offers numerous other benefits, including stormwater management, energy savings, and membrane protection. It also provides a habitat for pollinators and a pleasant environment for visitors. The design incorporates several growing areas across multiple levels, creating a flowing pattern that enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal. This provides an opportunity to teach about the value of artwork and green space for human health, and the cohesiveness of society.
LiveRoof® sedum mixes
The planting plan at Da Vinci included three different LiveRoof® sedum mixes: Classic Mix, Mahogany Mix, and Evergreen Mix. Additionally, the perennial area along the outdoor café features Armeria maritima, Sesleria autumnalis, and Sporobolus heterolepis ‘Tara’.
LiveRoof® Take Off plan
Da Vinci Discovery Center – Outdoor Cafe with Green Roof Perimeter
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| For those interested in viewing the installation process, a time-lapse video is available on the Da Vinci Discovery Center’s website, showcasing the construction of the LiveRoof®.
Click to view the Da Vinci Discovery Center Construction The addition of the LiveRoof® at the Da Vinci Discovery Center marks a significant step towards promoting green infrastructure in Allentown, potentially paving the way for more green roofs in the area. |
About the Grower
Riverbend Greenroofs, a prominent provider of LiveRoof® solutions based in Riner, VA, is proud to highlight its collaboration with the Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science & Technology in Allentown, PA. Since 2006 Riverbend Greenroofs has completed over 621 projects, covering a total of 1.6 million square feet.
Michele Deery, MLA, GRP, is the LiveRoof® representative for PA, NJ, and DE. Known for her hands-on approach and enthusiasm, she ensures clients receive optimal LiveRoof® solutions by frequently visiting project sites to provide support and expertise.
Jonathan ensuring quantity control, down to the last LiveRoof module riding up the conveyor belt
Riverbend Greenroofs stands out due to their dedicated LiveRoof® Grower, Jonathan McIntyre, who ensures high standards by managing LiveRoof® stock fields from production to shipment. His responsibilities include maintaining the facility, advising on plant selection, and supporting the sales team. Jonathan’s expertise and dedication result in remarkably healthy and visually stunning sedum, making Riverbend a leader in sustainable green roofing solutions.
About this Piece:
This is the fifth article in the series: Why do a Green Roof? We hope you enjoy the series throughout this year. I’m Jodi Griffin, Business Development Manager for LiveRoof® Global. I can be reached via email at jodi@liveroof.com.
For more information about Riverbend Greenroofs- Click HERE
