Location: Beuafort, North Carolina

Description:  The Ocean Conservation Center is located Beaufort, North Carolina at the Duke University Marine Laboratory. The building was designed by the office of Frank Harmon Architect PA and is a stellar example of merging the built structure with site. The green roof is one of many environmentally sensitive technologies at the Ocean Conservation Center. The system selected is a pre-vegetated, extensive system green roof with specialized components to secure the green roof from coastal high wind exposure.  The system was selected due to the structural capacity of the building, availability of regionally sourced material, LEED Platinum certification, and the challenges associated with a windy coastal climate. LRI worked with Frank Harmon Architect PA to design the green roof system and the irrigation which is supplied by a rainwater catchment system. The green roof is visible from ground level and from an adjacent 4-story faculty office and laboratory building. This project was completed in April 2010.  The green roof components were tested against wind uplift during Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Earl and experienced zero soil erosion or damage.

Green Roof System:  Extensive Pre-Vegetated

Size:  2,440 sqft

Irrigation:  Yes, using captured rainwater

Plant Material: Southeast Extensive Mix

Date of Completion:  Spring 2010

LRI Role:  Consultation & Installation