Canadian Embassy (2005)

Berlin, Germany

Picture Gallery

The landscape concept for the new Canadian Embassy in Berlin is an integral part of the building. With its greenery, this elegant indoor/outdoor environment is a pleasure for the eye and soul.

The green roof is a symbolic Canadian landscape featuring the mystical, vast land of the North. It is a simulation of the river system of the Mackenzie, Canada’s longest river, as it winds its way from Alberta to the Arctic Ocean. The geomorphic shapes of the Mackenzie River are depicted with glass panels, which dramatically reflect the Berlin sky and tie the two countries – Canada and Germany – together. The “land” is planted with a groundcover pine found along the shores of the Mackenzie River.

Green Roof for the Canadian Embassy in Berlin

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The roof installation allows the rainwater to collect in a cistern in the basement of the building. This water is available for irrigation as well as washing paved areas and the glass roof. The green roof of the Auditorium is designed on a diagonal with alternate plantings of light and dark. Opposite this roof is a green wall planted with American bittersweet.

The plants are known to Canadians and are indigenous to the climate of Berlin. Plants were selected for low maintenance and low water requirements, demonstrating environmental responsibility.

Berlin Sky. The Creation Process

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“It is hoped that the landscape design of the Embassy will bring a better understanding between Canada and Germany to the users and visitors through nature and our common concern for our environment” (Oberlander). The simulated installation of Canada’s greatest river emptying into the Arctic Ocean brings to Germany a unique symbol of Canada’s vastness and fragile environment.