Sam Nunn Atlanta Federal Center

We built the Southeast’s largest vegetative roof at the Sam Nunn Atlanta Federal Center downtown. The complex includes the repurposed iconic 1924 Rich’s department store building and an adjacent eight story tower. The unique project required preparing the buildings to receive the soil necessary for planting the vegetation. This included a new roof system that recycled many elements of the old roofs.

Getting tons of soil up eight stories in the heart of the South’s biggest metropolis proved to be one of the biggest challenges. We employed a reverse vacuum system that forced the soil up through hoses set in place by cranes. The work was done at night and required street closings for equipment access and material delivery. Eighty percent of the existing roof material including the pavers, waterproofing membrane and rigid insulation was recycled. Over a 150,000 sedums were planted; today it flourishes as a beautiful natural garden.

Results of this design-build project include thermal and moisture protection, energy conservation, reduced utility costs, reduced heating and cooling and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Storm water runoff was cut by more than 600,000 gallons. We’re proud to have played a central role in the creation of a cutting edge roof that saves money and the environment.

This project received the Excellence In Design Award in Roofing from the Center for Environmental Innovation.