The Watergarden project serves as a model for how existing rooftops can be retrofitted and used strategically for urban climate adaptation. The project began in May 2025 and provides a platform for holistic, interdisciplinary thinking, bringing together research, teaching and societal dialogue. While serving as a research space, it also provides students and staff with a high-quality open space embedded in their everyday campus life. As part of the Living Lab HIL, the project’s outcomes can be scaled up in the coming years.
Expected results from the first phase:
- Establishment of an open-air design laboratory spanning 1000 m²
- A toolbox for practical applications
- Knowledge gained on the effects of heat development
- Insights into the typologies, limitations and possibilities of water retention
- The effects of common rooftop gardens on the everyday teaching and research culture at ETH
- Impact on ETH rooftop planning processes
- Transfer of knowledge for local and national policymaking.
Timeline
- Summer 2025: refinement of the concept and completion of initial projects
- Autumn 2025: expansion of the rooftop garden
- Winter 2025: installing measurements and calculations, consolidating teaching formats and establishing collaborations with D-BAUG and USYS.
- 2026-2029: further development of research and teaching
- 2027-2029: integration into the planning of Living Lab HIL
