<p>Noted Uruguayan architect Rafael Vinoly has unveiled plans to convert an ageing shopping centre in the heart of California’s technology hub, Silicon Valley, into the world’s largest rooftop park.<br /><br /></p>.<p>The sprawling installation features a six-kilometre walking trail winding around orchards, vineyards, play-grounds and an amphitheatre.<br /><br />If realised, the green roof development would take the place of the existing Vallco Shopping Mall and would occupy a 50-acre site between Apple’s One Infinite Loop headquarters and the Norman Foster-designed Apple Campus 2. A part of Sand Hill Property Company’s $3 billion development plan for the area, the green roof initiative looks also to integrate two million square metres of office space, 800 apartments, mall with a cinema, and an ice rink and gym. Taking into consideration environmental factors, the green roof scheme has been designed to ensure the continued protection of existing healthy trees and will also be responsible for the planting of native and drought-tolerant flora.<br /><br />Sand Hill Property’s managing director, Reed Moulds is of the opinion that there will be nothing like the project when its done. The company believes its community focus will make this a remarkable place to live, work, dine, play, learn and recreate. Plans for the green roof initiative are being submitted to the City of Cupertino, and a public consultation is currently running live on The Hills at Vallco website.<br /></p>
<p>Noted Uruguayan architect Rafael Vinoly has unveiled plans to convert an ageing shopping centre in the heart of California’s technology hub, Silicon Valley, into the world’s largest rooftop park.<br /><br /></p>.<p>The sprawling installation features a six-kilometre walking trail winding around orchards, vineyards, play-grounds and an amphitheatre.<br /><br />If realised, the green roof development would take the place of the existing Vallco Shopping Mall and would occupy a 50-acre site between Apple’s One Infinite Loop headquarters and the Norman Foster-designed Apple Campus 2. A part of Sand Hill Property Company’s $3 billion development plan for the area, the green roof initiative looks also to integrate two million square metres of office space, 800 apartments, mall with a cinema, and an ice rink and gym. Taking into consideration environmental factors, the green roof scheme has been designed to ensure the continued protection of existing healthy trees and will also be responsible for the planting of native and drought-tolerant flora.<br /><br />Sand Hill Property’s managing director, Reed Moulds is of the opinion that there will be nothing like the project when its done. The company believes its community focus will make this a remarkable place to live, work, dine, play, learn and recreate. Plans for the green roof initiative are being submitted to the City of Cupertino, and a public consultation is currently running live on The Hills at Vallco website.<br /></p>