As part of the GreenCityLabHuế project, concepts for the small-scale implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) in the form of green infrastructure elements were developed in a design competition together with students and representatives of civil society. They are referred to as “showcases for nature-based solutions” and are intended both to demonstrate what can be achieved with NbS in terms of climate adaptation and air quality improvement and to gather valuable experience for their planning, implementation and maintenance in Huế. These small-scale, place-based examples of NbS will help to create a shady and cool public space for residents on hot days, thereby improving local quality of life and climate resilience. Short films will be made for all 4 showcases to document their implementation and impacts.
In July 2024, the GreenCityLabHuế project launched a series of activities to set up the first green showcase on the third floor rooftop terrace of the Phu Hoi Ward Community Cultural Center in Huế. The aim was to create a green and shady space where citizens can spend time together and escape the heat on sunny days. First, the original condition of the roof terrace and the facade of the cultural center was filmed to document the status quo. In addition, residents of the Phu Hoi ward and the winning design team were interviewed about their design.
Subsequently, planting materials, soil and plants were transported to the roof terrace and the metal frame system of the roof and facade were reinforced to ensure the safety of people using the green space. This measure was proposed by the Ward People’s Committee to ensure the measure’s resilience to all weather conditions, as Huế is regularly hit by storms in October and November. Climbing plants were planted along the façade, which will grow up the metal frame construction in the future.
The roof garden was completed by installing the drip irrigation system to ensure sufficient water and nutrients for the plants to grow. It is expected to take about 12 months for the plants to fully climb up the ceiling of the metal frame system and completely shade the roof terrace of the Phu Hoi Ward Community Cultural Center. However, even before then, the greenery will help to improve the amenity value of the roof terrace and cool the surrounding air through the evaporative cooling effect of the plants.
The GreenCityLabHuế project will continue to monitor the growth of the plants and carry out other activities to introduce the new green space to the public in Phu Hoi district and Huế city. The project wants the public to welcome the green space and use it for community activities, sports, entertainment and other activities to raise awareness of green living in urban areas.
The GreenCityLabHuế project sincerely thanks the support of the Thua Thien Huế Provincial People’s Committee, the Huế City People’s Committee and the departments and agencies in carrying out the procedures to establish the first public rooftop garden in Huế city. The project also thanks the Phu Hoi Ward People’s Committee and related divisions for their active support in the successful implementation.
Huếlens recorded the current status of the 3rd floor rooftop of the Phu Hoi Ward Community Cultural Center and the preparation work for plants at Thao Nguyen Green Tree Shop.
Transporting materials and plants by crane to the 3rd floor rooftop of Phu Hoi Ward Community Cultural Center and recording planting activities during the implementation of Phu Hoi.
Setting up of the drip irrigation system for each potted plant.
