Green roofs add a touch of nature to the concrete jungle

Great thinkers have always known that nature is essential to the human spirit. Perhaps that is why more and more architects, designers and builders are choosing to create green retreats in their designs, including rooftops that allow the eye to drink in nature's beauty.

"There are just so many benefits to green roofs," said Kerry Ross, one of Canada's leading green roof experts and the first accredited green roof professional in the country. She spearheaded a number of "living architecture" projects, including the eco-roof at the University of Calgary Research Park and the green roof initiative at Calgary City Hall.