Extensive but irrigated green roof at Kaufland Maritimo Constanța

3 min read

The green roof at Kaufland Maritimo in Constanța is the kind of project that clearly demonstrates that nature, when understood and technically respected, knows how to collaborate perfectly with modern constructions.

Located right near the sea, on a building permanently exposed to wind, salt aerosols, and sudden temperature variations, this green roof enters spring in a spectacular way: blooming uniformly, without gaps or “tired” areas.

The vegetation layer was chosen with care, not from a catalog, but based on experience. The plants are resilient species, accustomed to the specific climatic stress of the coast, capable of dealing with salty winds and drier periods. Beneath them, however, lies the true invisible work: a correctly sized drainage system, a balanced substrate, and a layering designed so that water is retained exactly as much as needed, without puddling or premature drying—and all this within an incredibly thin layer of just 6 cm.

In spring, when the plants enter the active growth phase, the roof starts working seriously for the building. Evapotranspiration increases, the temperature at the waterproofing level drops, and the commercial spaces below benefit from a real boost in thermal comfort. To amplify this effect, the roof is irrigated in a controlled manner—not excessively, but just enough to support the vegetation during key periods and to actively cool. This is more efficient than massive air conditioning units with energy consumption that would considerably decrease the store’s profit.

The result is not just aesthetic, a “beautiful roof.” It is a mature ecological construction solution that insulates, manages rainwater, and proves that even on the coast, under harsh conditions, green roofs can function correctly and over the long term.