Portfolio: Featured Green Building Projects

Living Wall Installation: Brooklyn Commercial Space

Project Type: Interior Living Wall Installation Location: Brooklyn, New York Size: 200 square feet Completion: 2024

Challenge

A commercial office space had a large blank wall that felt sterile and uninspiring. The client wanted to improve air quality, create visual interest, and establish a connection to nature in the workplace.

Solution

We designed and installed a custom modular living wall system featuring a diverse plant palette including sedums, ferns, and ivy varieties. The system includes automated drip irrigation with smart timer controls.

Design Approach

The living wall was positioned as a focal point visible from the main work area. We selected plants that would thrive under the available light conditions while providing visual diversity through varied textures and colors.

System specifications: - Modular panel system for easy maintenance - Automated drip irrigation with smart controls - Mix of 15+ plant varieties - Professional installation and 6-month establishment support

Results

The living wall transformed the office environment. Employees report improved mood and reduced stress. Air quality improved measurably. The installation became a signature feature of the office, impressing clients and visitors.

Ongoing benefits: - Improved air quality and employee wellbeing - Reduced stress and improved focus - Enhanced office aesthetics - Conversation starter and brand differentiator

Passive House Renovation: Brooklyn Brownstone

Project Type: Historic Building Passive House Retrofit Location: Crown Heights, Brooklyn Year Built: 1920 Renovation Completed: 2023

Challenge

A 1920s Brooklyn brownstone was energy-inefficient, with high heating costs, drafts, and inconsistent temperatures. The owner wanted to modernize the building while preserving its historic character.

Solution

We completed a comprehensive Passive House retrofit including envelope insulation, window replacement, air-sealing, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

Design Approach

The renovation prioritized energy efficiency while maintaining the building's historic character. We:

• Added insulation to exterior walls without disrupting interior finishes
• Replaced single-pane windows with high-performance triple-glazed units
• Sealed air leaks throughout the building envelope
• Installed a heat recovery ventilation system
• Added radiant heating for comfort and efficiency

Technical Specifications

• Wall insulation: R-30 (added externally)
• Window U-value: 0.15 (triple-glazed, insulated frames)
• Air-tightness: 0.4 ACH50 (Passive House certified)
• Heating system: Radiant heating with heat pump
• Ventilation: Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) with 85% efficiency

Results

The building now maintains 68-72°F year-round with minimal heating/cooling energy. Annual heating costs dropped from $2,400 to $180. The home is exceptionally comfortable with no drafts or cold spots.

Performance metrics: - 92% reduction in heating energy - Annual energy savings: $2,220 - Improved indoor air quality - Superior comfort and consistency - Maintained historic character

Green Roof Installation: Residential Building

Project Type: Extensive Green Roof System Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn Size: 2,000 square feet Completion: 2023

Challenge

A residential building had an underutilized flat roof that was contributing to heat gain and stormwater runoff. The owner wanted to improve energy efficiency, manage stormwater, and create outdoor space.

Solution

We designed and installed a comprehensive extensive green roof system with sedum and native groundcover plantings.

Design Approach

The green roof was designed as an extensive system (4 inches of growing medium) with drought-tolerant plants requiring minimal maintenance. The design prioritizes stormwater management and energy efficiency.

System specifications: - Waterproofing membrane with root barrier - Drainage layer with perimeter drainage - 4-inch lightweight growing medium - Sedum and native groundcover planting - Perimeter safety railings

Plant Selection

We selected plants suited to roof conditions: - Sedums (primary planting, drought-tolerant) - Native groundcovers (support local ecosystems) - Ornamental grasses (texture and movement) - Wildflowers (pollinator support)

Results

The green roof provides multiple benefits:

Environmental: - Manages 60% of annual stormwater runoff - Reduces roof surface temperature by 35°F - Supports pollinators and urban biodiversity - Improves air quality

Economic: - Annual energy savings: $1,200 - Extended roof lifespan (40+ years vs. 20 years) - Stormwater fee reduction: $400/year - Increased property value

Quality of life: - Beautiful outdoor space - Connection to nature - Improved air quality - Reduced urban heat

Sustainable Materials Project: Office Renovation

Project Type: Green Building Renovation with Salvaged Materials Location: DUMBO, Brooklyn Completion: 2022

Challenge

A commercial office needed renovation but wanted to minimize environmental impact through sustainable material sourcing and waste reduction.

Solution

We sourced reclaimed and salvaged materials for the renovation, including reclaimed wood flooring, recycled metal fixtures, and non-toxic finishes.

Materials Used

• Reclaimed hardwood flooring (salvaged from 1890s warehouse)
• Recycled metal office partitions
• Low-VOC paints and finishes
• Reclaimed brick and stone accents
• Salvaged wood for built-ins and shelving

Results

The renovation achieved: - 85% waste diversion from landfills - Reduced environmental impact vs. new materials - Unique character and aesthetic - Healthier indoor air quality (low-VOC materials) - Cost savings through material sourcing

Environmental Design: Biophilic Office Space

Project Type: Biophilic Design Integration Location: Park Slope, Brooklyn Completion: 2023

Challenge

A tech startup wanted to create an inspiring, healthy work environment that supported employee wellbeing and productivity.

Solution

We designed a comprehensive biophilic workspace integrating natural elements, living systems, and connection to nature.

Design Elements

• Living wall installation (200 sf)
• Natural light optimization
• Plant-filled workstations
• Water feature (natural sound)
• Natural wood and stone materials
• Connection to outdoor views
• Indoor air quality optimization

Results

Employee feedback: - Improved mood and stress reduction - Enhanced focus and productivity - Greater job satisfaction - Reduced absenteeism

Environmental: - Improved air quality - Reduced energy consumption - Enhanced biodiversity - Sustainable materials

Professional Approach

All projects follow a comprehensive process:

1. Assessment: Site evaluation, client goals, environmental analysis

2. Design: Detailed planning, material selection, technical specifications

3. Implementation: Professional installation, quality control, timeline management

4. Establishment: Monitoring, adjustment, support during establishment phase

5. Maintenance: Ongoing care plans, troubleshooting, optimization

Client Testimonials

"The living wall transformed our office. Clients comment on it immediately, and our team loves working in the space. The air feels fresher and everyone seems happier." — Commercial Client, Brooklyn

"We can't believe how comfortable the house is now. No more drafts, consistent temperature, and our heating bill dropped dramatically. It's like a completely different home." — Residential Client, Brooklyn

"The green roof is beautiful and we're already seeing the benefits. The space is cooler, it looks amazing, and we love knowing we're managing stormwater and supporting pollinators." — Residential Client, Williamsburg

Ready to Start Your Project?

I offer complete design, installation, and maintenance services for green building projects throughout New York City. Whether you're interested in living walls, Passive House renovation, green roofs, or sustainable materials, I can help bring your vision to life.

Contact: gennarobc@gmail.com | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gennarobc | Eco Brooklyn: ecobrooklyn.com