An environmentally friendly green roof sits atop a public structure in Singapore which was recently the recipient of an environmental engineering award.

The Marina Barrage is a dam commissioned by PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency. It has three major purposes – to boost Singapore’s water supply, to alleviate flooding in low lying areas and to provide a new lifestyle attraction and venue for recreational activities.

The rooftop area is used for outdoor concerts and performances and as a picnic and recreation area for the complex’s thousands of visitors. Pivotal to the success of the structure is VersiCell, a drainage module that enables the grass to thrive without risk of compaction despite significant pedestrian and maintenance vehicle traffic. The modules also enable large volumes of water to be dispersed and drained rapidly, which is particularly important during Singapore’s frequent and heavy rainfalls.

The VersiCell drainage modules used in the project were made by landscape engineering company Elmich. VersiCell drainage modules are lightweight and made of high-strength recycled plastic. They provide efficient drainage without the need to use heavy gravel and also protect the waterproofing membrane.

Landscaping for the project was carried out by Nature Landscapes. A total area of 15,000 sqm was planted with cow grass (Axonopus Compressus). Elmich supplied the VersiCell as well as the waterproofing membrane, Bitulen SK 347, for the Marina Barrage project.