Matej Erd said that the conference is known for evaluating all implemented green roofs and works in Slovakia. “An important awarded work from the past was also the NIVY shopping center in Bratislava. Unfortunately, most roofs are not open to the public, which inspired us to allow people to access roofs that are not normally accessible,” said Erd. Their project, which was awarded, is the result of cooperation on the revitalization of a factory building from the 1970s. Erd emphasized the importance of cooperation and the contribution of structural engineer Vladimír Steiner. “Mr. Steiner provided us with the necessary calculations and load options, without which the project would not have been possible,” said Erd. This combination of expertise and creative design created a roof that is not only functional, but also pleasing to the eye.
“In this case, it was about improving the climatic conditions of the building, which has a quantum of effects. It improves the microclimate, cools the building and reduces noise. The construction itself is a brilliant product that should be used everywhere,” said Richard Masár, emphasizing the need for state support and greater promotion of this solution. Matej Erd underlined the importance of caring for green roofs even after their implementation, because “you have to take care of the greenery. The first 3-4 years are the most demanding, until the greenery takes hold. It is a living organism,” explained Erd. According to him, the implementation and maintenance process is gradual, so that the composition of plants can be appropriately supplemented and their effective growth can be ensured.
Erd and Masár noted that interest in green roofs is increasing among architects, but they emphasized the need for more intensive education. “We often receive projects that are not even close to budget or graphic. There are mistakes,” explained Masár, adding that feedback for designers and budgeters is important. Problems often arise when structural architects with insufficient experience take on these projects. Matej Erd appreciated that this conference also provides five credits for architects for participation, but he emphasizes the importance of arousing students' interest in this topic. "However, it is up to the student himself whether he will educate himself in this area. This conference will not teach him how to make a green roof or how to design it. But there are also architects who draw those green roofs and are intensely interested in how to draw them, how to make that composition," concluded Erd.
