What is growing there? When we look closely, we always discover something new: here, a leaf pushes its way out from under a crumb of earth; there, a beetle crawls along.
A beautiful template for wishing you something for the new year. But what? Looking closely? A change of perspective? That would be fitting.
But we want to draw your attention away from the bustle on the other side and focus on its purpose. Because for us architects, greenery is an important building material. A green roof or facade can do amazing things: it insulates in summer and winter, stores rainwater and thus relieves the burden on the sewage system, which – attention, climate change! is important in times of increasing heavy rainfall. In addition, greenery provides habitat for insects, thus increasing biodiversity and improving the urban climate: green spaces cool heated cities, filter dust, and bind CO2. Unlike with concrete, steel, or plastic, there is no need to weigh up whether the use of greenery is worthwhile.
There are only advantages. So you can wish for a small animal zoo on your roof at any time with a clear conscience—Christmas!—or have it carefully planned by your architectural firm. Those who are critical of the costs and effort involved in greening a roof should not only consider the initial purchase price, but also the reduced follow-up costs, the ecological balance, durability, and better air quality. If you factor all of this in, a green roof is worthwhile; it is more attractive and more efficient.
This is therefore not only a plea for green roofs and facades, but also for good, contemporary architecture. We would like to work with you to develop a built environment that is beautiful and healthy, including in the new year. With this in mind, we wish you a happy 2026.
kadawittfeldarchitektur
Photo: Hans Hansen
Concept, design, and text: büro uebele
Editing: Miriam Holzapfel
