DIADEM® roof types
Explore the innovative use of rooftops that go beyond traditional building functions, inspired by a deep respect for nature and a commitment to sustainability. Our journey into roof gardens began with a simple, yet profound desire to compensate for the land occupied by urban development. Recognizing that building construction often takes away from nature, we embraced the concept of giving back by transforming roofs into vibrant, functional spaces. This not only restores a piece of the natural world but also enhances the utility of every building.
We began with green roofs and safety technologies, pushing the boundaries to ensure that rooftops could serve diverse functions just like the interiors of buildings. Over time, this has evolved into a comprehensive approach encompassing green, blue, conscious, yellow, and orange roofs—each designed with specific benefits that contribute to environmental sustainability and community well-being.
Green roofs
What they are
Green Roofs, in a more detailed light, are not just about adding vegetation to rooftops but are a multifaceted approach to reimagining the role of buildings in an urban ecosystem. They involve the installation of several layers on top of a roof to support the growth of plants, ranging from simple, drought-resistant sedum to complex landscapes with trees, shrubs, and walkways.
Green roof benefits
Concept behind it
The deeper philosophy of Green Roofs is rooted in the principle of living in symbiosis with nature, even in densely populated urban environments. They challenge the traditional view of roofs as merely protective covers, envisioning them instead as vital, productive components of urban ecosystems. Green Roofs symbolize a shift towards integrating natural processes into architectural design, promoting a model of development that supports life, fosters resilience, and enriches the human experience in cities.
Biodiversity
Psychological and physical health
The presence of green spaces has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and promote physical activity. Green roofs can serve as public parks or private retreats, contributing to the overall wellbeing of urban residents.
Stormwater management
An essential function of green roofs is their ability to absorb and retain rainfall, reducing runoff and easing the pressure on sewer systems. This capacity is critical in preventing urban flooding and water pollution.
Microclimate regulation
Green roofs play a significant role in mitigating the urban heat island effect by cooling the air and providing shade. This not only makes urban areas more comfortable during hot weather but can also significantly reduce energy consumption for air conditioning.
Blue roofs
What they are
Blue roofs are designed to mitigate stormwater runoff by temporarily storing rainwater before slowly releasing it, either to the sewer system or for on-site use. They can be simple, with basic detention mechanisms, or advanced, incorporating water quality treatment and reuse systems.
Blue roof benefits
Concept behind it
The essence of blue roofs lies in their innovative approach to water management, viewing rainwater not as waste but as a valuable resource. This aligns with principles of sustainable urban development and water-sensitive urban design, advocating for cities that work with natural water cycles to create more adaptable and resilient environments.
Stormwater management
Water conservation
By capturing and storing rainwater, blue roofs can provide a source of water for non-potable uses such as irrigation, flushing toilets, and cooling systems, reducing the demand on municipal water supplies.
Adaptation to climate change
They offer a practical solution for urban areas to adapt to the increasing frequency of heavy rainfall events associated with climate change, reducing the impact of floods and contributing to resilient urban infrastructure
Orange roofs
What they are
Orange roofs represent a critical aspect of building design, focused on safety measures specifically tailored to protect individuals from falls when accessing roof areas. These roofs are equipped with various fall protection systems, which are indispensable for legal and safe usage of rooftop spaces. The term “orange” symbolizes the visibility and importance of safety measures in construction and building management. This commitment to safety not only protects individuals but also aligns with broader goals of workplace safety and health regulations, fostering a culture of safety that extends beyond mere compliance to embody a fundamental corporate responsibility.
Orange roof benefits
Concept Behind It
The underlying concept of orange roofs is rooted in the principle of “safety first,” reflecting a proactive approach to hazard prevention in building design and use. It acknowledges the inherent risks associated with rooftop activities and addresses them through engineered safety measures. The design and installation of these systems take into account the specific needs based on who uses the roof and for what purpose, ensuring that all activities conducted at height are safeguarded with the appropriate level of protection.
Enhanced Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Orange roofs are integral to ensuring the safety of individuals working at or visiting roof areas, particularly in commercial and industrial settings. Systems installed on these roofs, such as those certified by DiaSafe®, meet rigorous safety standards, including the latest EU regulations. This not only helps in preventing accidents but also ensures that building owners and employers are compliant with occupational safety laws, thereby reducing potential liabilities.
Versatile Safety Solutions
Depending on the usage, frequency of access, and specific requirements of a rooftop, various safety systems are implemented. These can range from simple free-standing anchor points for occasional maintenance tasks to comprehensive linear anchor protection systems and railings designed for frequent and diverse use. This flexibility in safety system design allows for customized solutions that address the unique safety needs of each rooftop.
Preventive Approach to Workplace Safety
The emphasis on fall protection on orange roofs highlights a preventive approach to workplace safety, essential for any activities conducted at heights. By integrating advanced fall protection technologies and systems, these roofs provide a safe environment that protects workers and others from the risk of falls, a leading cause of serious and fatal injuries in the construction and maintenance sectors.
Conscious roofs
What they are
Conscious Roofs embody a comprehensive, integrated approach to roofing, combining the environmental benefits of Green, Blue, and Yellow Roofs with a focus on the social and human aspects of sustainability. These roofs are designed with an awareness of their impact on the environment, society, and future generations, incorporating safety features (Orange Roofs) to ensure the wellbeing of those who access or maintain them.
Conscious roof benefits
Concept behind it
At the heart of the Conscious Roof concept is the recognition that our built environment can and should be harmonious with the natural world and human society. It’s a manifestation of a worldview that sees buildings not merely as inanimate structures but as living, breathing components of our communities. Conscious Roofs challenge us to think about the legacy of our constructions and their effects on future generations, urging a shift from sustainability as an afterthought to sustainability as the cornerstone of design and construction.
Environmental stewardship
Social responsibility
Beyond their environmental benefits, Conscious Roofs are designed with the community and human wellbeing in mind. They provide safe, accessible spaces for social interaction, recreation, or urban agriculture, fostering a sense of community and connection to nature within urban environments.
Economic viability
While upfront costs can be higher, the integrated approach of Conscious Roofs leads to long-term savings and benefits. Energy generation reduces utility bills, green and blue roof elements can extend roof lifespan and reduce stormwater management costs, and the holistic appeal of these roofs can enhance property values.
Yellow roofs
What they are
Yellow roofs are distinguished by their integration of solar energy systems, such as photovoltaic (PV) panels or solar thermal collectors, into the building’s roofing material. These systems convert sunlight directly into electricity or heat, effectively turning a building’s roof into a power generation plant.
Yellow roof benefits
Concept behind it
The idea behind yellow roofs extends beyond the mere technical aspect of installing solar panels. It represents a paradigm shift towards utilizing our buildings not just as places for living or working but as active contributors to a sustainable and resilient energy system. This approach leverages the otherwise unused space of roofs for a critical purpose: to capture and utilize solar energy, reflecting a forward-thinking attitude towards energy production, consumption, and the role of architecture in environmental stewardship.
Yellow roofs exemplify how technological advancements can be harmonized with ecological goals, embodying the principles of sustainable development by reducing carbon footprints, promoting energy independence, and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Renewable energy production
Cost savings and financial incentives
Solar roofs can offer substantial cost savings over time. By generating their own electricity, buildings can reduce their energy bills. Additionally, many regions offer financial incentives, such as tax credits, rebates, and feed-in tariffs, to encourage the adoption of solar energy.
Adaptation to climate change
Yellow roofs, which integrate solar panels and solar collectors, play an active role in mitigating climate change and promoting a sustainable future. With the help of solar collectors, buildings utilize solar energy, which reduces dependence on non-renewable energy sources, and in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions. This use of renewable energy contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change and helps cities adapt to the challenges of climate change. Therefore, yellow roofs not only improve the resilience of urban infrastructure but also contribute to environmental protection.
Increased energy independence
By producing energy on-site, buildings with yellow roofs can achieve a degree of energy independence. This can be particularly beneficial in areas prone to power outages or where energy costs are high. Moreover, surplus energy can sometimes be sold back to the grid, providing an additional revenue stream or offsetting installation and maintenance costs.
Sustainability and corporate responsibility
For businesses, investing in solar roofs can signal a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This can enhance a company’s reputation, satisfy stakeholder demands for eco-friendly practices, and align with corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals.