Boronggook Drysdale Library

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AGIN AFFILIATES
Extensive Green Roof
Drysdale
VIC
Australia
Traditional Owners & Custodians
Wadawurrung People

Fytogreen collaborated on the Boronggook Drysdale Library to deliver a distinctive 544 m² sloped green roof, the first of its kind in the Greater Geelong region. Completed in December 2022, the project integrates living architecture into a circular building design, with slopes reaching up to 45 degrees. This innovative roofscape supports 4,770 plants across 17 native species, creating a habitat for birds, bees, and butterflies while enhancing the building’s thermal performance and visual appeal 1.

To accommodate the steep pitch, Fytogreen implemented a geoweb cellular confinement system, ensuring soil stability and plant health. The green roof extends to the building’s façade, blending seamlessly with the adjacent parkland and reinforcing the library’s connection to its natural surroundings. A remotely monitored irrigation system supports water efficiency, while a large underground tank captures rainwater for reuse, contributing to the building’s environmentally sustainable design.

The project was developed in partnership with Nicholson Construction, Antarctica Architects, and Architecture Associates, with ongoing maintenance by Fytogreen. It forms part of the City of Greater Geelong’s commitment to 100% renewable energy and aligns with its UNESCO City of Design accreditation, which promotes innovation in public infrastructure 1.

The Boronggook Drysdale Library is located at 8 Wyndham Street, Drysdale, VIC 3222, on land traditionally owned by the Wadawurrung People, whose enduring connection to Country is acknowledged and respected.

In 2024, Fytogreen was awarded the "World's Best Green Roof" at the World Green Infrastructure Congress held in Auckland for the Boronggook Drysdale Library green roof.  A stunning project recognised for its innovative design and environmental impact.

details

project
Boronggook Drysdale Library
team
Client / Developer

City of Geelong, and Geelong Regional Library Corporation

Green Infrastructure Specialist

Fytogreen Australia

Architect / Landscape Architect

Antarctica Architects & Architecture Associates

Build / Construct

Nicholson Construction Pty Ltd

Specialist Suppliers
Maintenance Provider

Fytogreen Australia

Researcher / Educator

Fytogreen Australia

Researcher / Educator
type
Extensive Green Roof
address
8 Wyndham St
Drysdale
Australia
sector
Government
Accessibility
Institutional
Local Government Area
City of Greater Geelong
  • AREA TYPE
    Spacious
    Suburban
  • AVERAGE RAINFALL
    Low Rainfall
  • URBAN FOREST COVER
    moderately below
year
December 15, 2022
cost
$50K-$250K
size - M2
544
Different Species
17
Total Plants
4770
sustainability metrics
Stormwater is captured in an underground tank for irrigation, managed remotely for efficiency. The garden supports local biodiversity and is powered by 100% renewable energy via the City of Greater Geelong.
key features
Total depth 160–170mm. 224m² with a 45° slope. Includes a remotely monitored irrigation system and a 7.3m internal courtyard tree planter box.