rafael viñoly to build 'the world's largest green roof' in silicon valley

rafael viñoly to build ‘the world’s largest green roof’ in silicon valley
all images courtesy of the hills at vallco

uruguayan architect rafael viñoly has unveiled plans to build ‘the world’s largest green roof’ in cupertino, california. working alongside landscape architects OLIN, the mixed-use scheme — titled ‘the hills at vallco’ — will transform an existing shopping mall in a huge complex containing a host of amenities for the local community.

the development is located at the heart of silicon valley

located at the heart of silicon valley, and positioned adjacent to apple’s ‘campus 2’, the vast $3 billion USD development includes a new neighborhood with a vibrant mix of retail outlets, offices and recreational spaces. above, the enormous green roof boasts an integrated 30-acre park accessible for residents and visitors alike. 

a 3.8 mile trail can be used for recreational exercise

the large canopy incorporates a 3.8 mile trail for jogging and walking, and is populated with vineyards, orchards and organic gardens. a public amphitheater is included alongside children’s play areas and a refuge for native species of plants and birds. from an environmental perspective, the scheme ensures the protection of existing healthy trees, and will be responsible for the planting of native and drought-tolerant flora.

the green roof includes vineyards, orchards and organic gardens

at ground level a new neighborhood includes retail outlets, offices and recreational spaces

the scheme remains accessible to all residents

the green roof traverses existing streets

the scheme also contains theaters, bowling lanes and an ice skating rink