Green roof reflected in the value of a property

It is truly refreshing when we can spend time in a green, vibrant environment.

We have all felt, at least once, the calming effect of a walk through a park, a forest, or a green meadow. It is that moment when we feel the daily stress fade away and our mind becomes clear. But have you ever wondered why nature has such an impact on us? The explanation lies in the deep and natural connection we have with our surroundings. Nature represents the source of life on Earth, a complex ecosystem that sustains our existence, and this instinctive bond with the natural world is called biophilia.

Scientific research has shown that the presence of nature in our daily environment has measurable effects on both physical and mental health. Studies indicate that simply looking at plants or a natural landscape can lower heart rate, stabilize blood pressure, and regulate stress hormone levels. Moreover, these beneficial effects are not temporary – they persist even after direct interaction with nature.

Experiments conducted in schools and office spaces have demonstrated that access to green areas or the integration of natural elements into building architecture (such as indoor gardens or living walls) can increase concentration, productivity, and academic or professional performance by up to 300%. Similarly, in medical environments, patients with access to green views or natural spaces recovered faster and showed significant improvements compared to those who did not benefit from such conditions.

These results highlight the importance of integrating nature into our everyday lives. Whether it’s green roofs, urban parks, or vertical gardens, nature-based solutions can promote a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, both for individuals and communities.

In a world where artificial environments and digital technology surround us at every step, maintaining an authentic connection with nature has become more important than ever. This need is even more evident in the context of rapid urbanization, which transforms cities into true centers of concrete and glass, where green spaces are increasingly scarce. However, through innovative sustainable architecture and intelligent urban design, we have the opportunity to reintroduce nature into the everyday landscape and create more balanced, healthy, and harmonious environments for all city dwellers.

The economic value of these buildings has increased significantly due to the presence of green structures.

What is the impact of this phenomenon on the growth of real estate value?

In our fast-paced era, we all feel the negative effects of shrinking green spaces, which are essential for a healthy living environment. In a reality dominated by urban infrastructure and machinery, we feel reenergized whenever we have the chance to enjoy a lively, natural setting.

Even in the midst of monotonous urban landscapes, the existence of even the smallest green areas plays a crucial role. The presence of plants induces relaxation, optimism, and satisfaction in those nearby. Although cities often have many parks and green areas, they are frequently located at considerable distances, meaning residents do not always enjoy direct contact with nature in their daily lives. Thus, a building that offers immediate access to natural elements and a relaxing experience becomes highly appreciated. These green spaces create the feeling of an oasis of calm, where harmony and the beauty of nature combine to form a pleasant atmosphere.

It is remarkable that properties featuring green design elements — such as planted roofs or living walls — increase in market value by approximately 16%. Beyond creating a welcoming and pleasant environment, such buildings reflect a modern commitment to sustainability and ecology, trends that will continue to gain ground in the future.

Integrating green spaces directly into the structure of buildings creates a lush and spectacular atmosphere, transforming buildings and their surroundings into true sanctuaries of calm and freshness — attractive to both buyers and investors. Numerous remarkable projects emphasizing green roofs have gained popularity thanks to this innovative investment approach.

However, the increase in property value is not due solely to the aesthetic effect or the psychological benefits brought by nature. At the building level, green roofs offer numerous practical advantages, including the extension of waterproofing membrane lifespan, reduction of traffic noise, and improved sound insulation — all contributing to a quieter environment for residents. The vegetation and substrate act as thermal insulation, reducing the energy needed for heating and cooling, which can generate savings of up to 22% during the cold season.

Additionally, green terraces efficiently manage rainwater by retaining up to 80% of it, using it for irrigation, and gradually releasing excess water into the drainage system. Buildings equipped with green roofs can obtain certifications such as LEED and BREEAM and can help achieve nZEB standards, adding both prestige and market value. Moreover, the integration of modern technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), enhances the efficiency and sustainability of urban constructions, aligning with global environmental objectives.

The benefits of green roofs also extend to the surrounding environment, contributing to the maintenance of a balanced urban ecosystem. These spaces support biodiversity, providing shelter and food for various species — including pollinators, whose natural habitats are increasingly affected by urbanization. Furthermore, green areas help cool urban environments, mitigating the heat island effect by reducing surface temperatures by 25–40°C and air temperature by about 5°C. Their water absorption capacity reduces flood risks and supports the efficient functioning of drainage systems. Through photosynthesis, plants filter fine particles and carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen and improving air quality.

Thus, green roofs represent an excellent solution for maximizing a building’s potential, transforming it into a high-value property equipped with modern, innovative, and sustainable technologies. Their natural and harmonious appearance creates a distinctive visual impression and contributes to a more pleasant lifestyle within a bustling urban environment. Although the initial investment is higher compared to conventional roofs, these costs are recovered in a short period, offering long-term economic benefits.

Economic studies — including analyses of residential buildings in Belgrade — show that the net present value (NPV) of green roof projects can be significant, with estimates indicating an NPV of €43/m² for extensive green roofs and €82/m² for intensive ones. These figures clearly highlight the financial advantage of investing in green roofs, offering a strong argument for property owners.

In conclusion, green roofs are becoming a highly valued feature in the real estate sector, attracting environmentally conscious buyers and contributing to increased property value.

Every green roof installation we create will have the best cost/efficiency/safety ratio in operation, providing you with customized green roof system solutions tailored to your specific project. We are at your disposal with designs, system solutions, cost estimates, and professional consultancy.