Three green roofs can be seen from many of the patients’ rooms at the new Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital that was dedicated last November. A 6,000 square foot terrace green roof, with a deck that is accessible only to patients and families, utilizes the LiveRoof® Hybrid Green Roof System, a modular green roof system.
More than just an aesthetic, the LiveRoof provides for insulation and storm water management, spreading rainwater evenly through each section. LiveRoof also qualifies the Hospital for LEED credits.
“Incorporation of natural spaces like green roofs helps Penn State Hershey fulfill our mission of providing comprehensive care to sick or injured children and their families, care that is focused on them and designed to help them heal not only physically, but spiritually and emotionally as well,” said Penn State Hershey Medical Center director of design and construction, Richard Aradine, in a press release. “Inclusion of these green spaces also puts us in a good position to achieve LEED certification for the new Children’s Hospital building, a commitment we’ve made for all new construction on our campus.”
The environment was a consideration throughout construction of the hospital, which was built with green materials. Construction waste was recycled whenever possible. Five large air handlers move air efficiently, with less energy than traditional models. Fan Wall Technology™ was implemented, which uses an array of small fans to reduce the footprint of the air handler and saves energy.
“Views of beautiful landscapes and access to green space were central considerations and drivers in the design of the new building,” said project architect, Leon Drachman, AIA, principal, Payette (Boston, Mass.). “A series of courtyards ranging from large, public gathering spaces to private healing spaces, secret gardens and the rooftop terrace joins the network of existing green spaces to connect patients, families and caregivers back to the landscape.”
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