Slussen’s green roofs come to life

Developed with a strong biomimetic ethos, the roofs are built to function like natural ecosystems, from soil composition to water retention. Their south-facing slope ensures the greenery is clearly visible from both the street and surrounding buildings, transforming the rooftops into a “fifth façade” – a living, ever-changing landscape in the city’s visual field.

The intense solar exposure poses a challenge, increasing the risk of drought and placing high demands on the system’s capacity to retain moisture and sustain life.

To help the vegetation flourish, the roofs are built with technical solutions that mimic natural systems. For example, microtopography has been created using cellular glass blocks – a lightweight material that allows for deep root systems without overloading the structure. Deep crevices collect moisture and create variation in humidity and nutrients, fostering greater species richness. Different substrate blends, including biochar, provide a variety of soil conditions that support diverse plant life.

The green roofs include everything from blooming dry meadow species with touches of red to more lush vegetation with flowering perennials and shrubs. Together, they form a living roofscape – a new home for plants, small animals, and pollinators in the heart of the dense city.