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Date of lecture: December 4th, 2024
Bio
Tom, a Principal at Melillo Bauer Carman, has been a key member of the firm since joining 30 years ago. He is a graduate of SUNY Cobleskill where his interest in horticulture led him to study and graduate from the Landscape Architecture program at Rutgers University. Tom has had the pleasure of designing and overseeing the completion of many successful multi-family mixed use developments over the years. He, along with the team at MBC have been recipients of many Landscape Architecture design awards.
Abstract
As urban density increases, the traditional single-family backyard is evolving into a shared, multi-family open space, particularly within these environments. This lecture explores the transformation of private backyards into communal, multifunctional spaces that cater to the needs of residents, most particularly in mid to high-rise settings. We will delve into the design opportunities and strategies used to create these spaces, focusing on how rooftop gardens, terraces, and recreational areas are being conceptualized and implemented in modern multi-family buildings. By examining the design process of these complex rooftop solutions and utilizing completed case studies, this session will highlight how these urban open spaces foster community interaction, enhance residents’ quality of life, and contribute to sustainable design.