I´m working in a Project in Buenos Aires, Argentina, that is trying to achieve SSc5.1. As per LEED Calculations, we need 2,012.05 square meters (21,657.53 sf) of vegetated area, with native plants that guarantee a good native habitat while restoring the site with native species. The project is a tall tower in an open site, which has both hardscape surfaces for pedestrians and vegetated areas for native plants. The site is in a dense downtown area, with tall buildings and few green spaces.
Currently the Project has 2,089.60 sm (22,492.27 sf) in three major areas:
1. Green Vegetated Roof: 199.86 sm (2,151.28 sf)
2. Green Aras in the Ground Plaza – Open Plaza (also has Pedestrian Areas): 1,653.86 sm (17,802.00 sf)
3. Interior Vegetated Areas in the Ground Floor: 235.88 sm (2,539.00sf)

The architects have decided that in order to reinforce the green and sustainable concept of the building, the green areas from the Plaza will become part of the interior Ground Floor space. The ground level has a glass curtain wall that will permit the views from the interior to the exterior, unifying both spaces. The intention is that the green areas flow both inside and outside of the building.

The main question then is: can I count this interior surface as part of the vegetated areas? The plants that will be used will be native plants that can live in interior conditions. If I do not count this interior vegetated area; I will be off by 158.33 sm (1,650.43 sf), almost 7 % less than what is required, and will not make use of one of the most important green and sustainable elements of the building, its connection to the outdoors.

Any Advice? Is it ok to count these interior areas?