These Architects Proved That You Can Grow a Garden Even on a Rooftop (12 photos)
It's no secret that major cities are desperately lacking in greenery. Fortunately, modern architects are finding clever ways to bring nature back into urban spaces, transforming even the drabbiest buildings into vibrant green oases. 
Moomin House in Japan
Tucked away in a park near bustling Tokyo, this fairytale house with a green roof looks like it jumped straight out of a storybook. It's the kind of place kids and adults alike dream of spending some time in. 
ACROS Fukuoka Hall in Japan
The ACROS Fukuoka International Hall is a lush oasis right in the heart of the city. Roughly 35,000 plants thrive across 15 cascading terraces, offering a stunning view for passersby. 
Hotel in Israel
Adorned with neatly manicured spherical trees, this cheerful building in Eilat is a real head-turner. Beyond catching the eye of passersby, it offers guests a refreshing retreat from the scorching southern sun. 
Retail Store in Toronto
Built around eco-friendly principles, this building saves its best feature for the top. Visitors can stroll alongside flowerbeds and garden plots while taking in views of the surrounding modern skyscrapers. 
Spa Hotel in Austria
Designed by famed Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this spa hotel is a true architectural masterpiece. Its undulating roof features a rich blend of shrubs, trees, and lush green lawn. 
Country Home in China
An intricate pattern of lawn weaves across the rooftop of this Chinese home, effortlessly blending the structure into the surrounding countryside. 
Garage in Canada
A charming mini-garden that anyone could recreate in their own backyard. It’s a clever solution to the eternal question: "Where else can I plant some flowers?" Mom would definitely approve. 
University Campus in Singapore
The Nanyang Technological University campus is the largest in Singapore—and arguably the most uplifting. Whenever students grow tired of studying indoors, they can simply head up to the rooftop garden for a quick mood boost. 
Government Building in Chicago
Getting onto the roof of Chicago City Hall requires a guided tour, but the rooftop garden is clearly visible from 33 surrounding skyscrapers. Bonus fact: the roof yields around 200 pounds of honey every year. 
Houses in the Faroe Islands
Turf roofs are a familiar sight across Nordic countries, and until the mid-20th century, they were the most common roofing style around. Thanks to their rich tradition and excellent natural insulation, many locals still happily live in them today. 
Swedish Restaurant in the US
The owners of a Swedish restaurant in the US took green roofs to a whole new level. Not only did they recreate a traditional Swedish house, but they also trademarked a truly unique feature: goats grazing on the roof.
