The new California Academy of Sciences is a masterpiece of green design that displays nature and is also part of nature. Renzo Piano gave the museum a roof made of rolling earth planted with more than 1.7 million plants from nine different native species. The green roof provides a natural habitat for wildlife and endangered species like the San Bruno butterfly.
Below the earthen mounds is a 4 story re-created rain forest. Motorized porthole windows in the roof provide light and ventilation. A glass lobby and open exhibit rooms offer the sweeping natural views.
Renzo Piano's green roof cuts the building's energy needs by about a third.
Learn More About the California Academy of Sciences Building:
- Photos: Slideshow from the New York Times
- Official Site: California Academy of Sciences