Green rooftops, also known as green roofs or living roofs, offer a wide range of benefits for urban environments. In Philadelphia, these sustainable rooftop spaces help purify the air, conserve energy, reduce stormwater runoff, and promote biodiversity. Whether you’re interested in visiting some of the city’s most innovative rooftop gardens or creating your green roof at home, this guide shares must-see locations and expert advice to get you started.

Visiting Green Roofs in Philadelphia

Cira Green – A Park in the Sky

Located twelve stories above street level in University City, Cira Green (80 S. 30th St.) sits atop the Cira Centre South Garage. Open to the public year-round, this 31,221-square-foot rooftop park features lush lawns, skyline views, movie nights, and a breezy bar with cocktails, wine, and beer. It’s a perfect spot for families, date night, or stargazing. Parking is available at Cira Centre South Garage, 129 S. 30th St.

CHOP Healing Gardens

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has integrated green rooftops into its care facilities:

• Sea Garden at Children’s Seashore House (3405 Civic Center Blvd) features native plants, edibles, flowers, and shrubs to support holistic healing.
• The Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care (3500 Civic Center Blvd) includes a rooftop garden for patient rehabilitation and relaxation.

Note: These gardens are not open to the general public and are accessible only to patients and their families.

PECO Green Roof

Located on the 8th floor of PECO’s headquarters (2301 Market St), the PECO Green Roof spans over one acre and is designed to reduce stormwater runoff by up to 70%. It also contributes to air purification, carbon absorption, and provides pollinator habitats. In partnership with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS), PECO offers public guided green roof tours every Tuesday evening. Register for a PECO Roof Garden Tour.

Parkway Central Library Green Roof

At 1901 Vine St., the Parkway Central Library’s green roof is the first on a city-owned building. Designed by Moshe Safdie and Associates, it features over 5,400 plants across 5,000 square feet. Visitors can access it through the fourth-floor Skyline Room, where signage offers educational insights about the diverse plant life.

How to Create a Green Roof or Rooftop Garden at Home

Hiring a Green Roof Professional in Philadelphia

Installing a green roof requires careful planning, especially for existing buildings. “I interviewed several green roof contractors for the projects at 2016 Walnut and 1330 N. 5th St.,” said Deborah Solo, Owner/Broker of Solo Real Estate. “Jeanne Weber, owner of Philadelphia Green Roofs, offered the most reasonable estimate and was highly knowledgeable about the City’s Business Tax Credit and Water Revenue Programs. I was very pleased with her work.”

Weber, who has specialized in green roofs since 2011, cautions that residential buildings often lack the structural support needed for a full green roof. “There is rarely enough support in existing homes for the extra 30 lbs per sq ft,” she explains. “A structural engineer would need to evaluate it, which may require opening up parts of the roof or ceiling to inspect the rafters. Costs typically range from $25 to $30 per sq ft, but can go up to $60–$65 if roof repair is needed.”

DIY Rooftop Container Gardens

If a full green roof isn’t feasible, container gardening offers a beautiful, lightweight, and budget-friendly alternative for rooftops, decks, or terraces.

Basic Steps to Start a Rooftop Container Garden:

1. Choose the Right Plants
   Consider your roof’s sun exposure (full sun, partial, or shade). Pick plants based on your preference for color, texture, and fragrance.
2. Select Containers
   Opt for durable containers (ceramic, fiberglass, or metal) with drainage holes. Larger containers retain more moisture and reduce watering frequency.
3. Use the Right Soil
   A high-quality, well-draining potting mix is essential. Add perlite or vermiculite to enhance drainage.
4. Maintain Your Garden
   Regular watering, fertilizing, and occasional repotting will keep your plants healthy.

Hire a Philadelphia-Based Rooftop Gardener

Prefer the guidance of a professional container gardener? Philly has some excellent options that will do it all, from a consultation to selecting containers, planting and maintenance. They include: City Garden Guru, EC Urban Gardens, Potted Perfection, City Planter, Urban Jungle Designs.

Get Inspired: Visit the PHS Pop Up Garden

Before planting your own rooftop oasis, swing by the PHS Pop Up Garden on South Street at 1428 South St., supported by Solo Real Estate. This lively seasonal space features lush plants, gardening tips, community plant swaps, and a bar with beer, cocktails, and light bites. Visit the garden on Monday – Wednesday 5:00 – 10:00 pm., Thursday 5:00 pm-11:00 pm, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 – 12:00am and Sunday 12:00 – 9:00pm.

Green Roofs for a Greener Philly

From public rooftop parks to therapeutic hospital gardens and inspiring home container setups, green roofs are transforming Philadelphia—one building at a time. At Solo Real Estate, we believe in creating and supporting more sustainable, beautiful, and livable communities throughout the city.

Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or invest in a property with eco-conscious features or want guidance on how to incorporate green design into your existing space, we can help. Reach out to us if you’re interested in a home with sustainable, eco-friendly features.