(1) If we are landscaping using a mixture of gravel with bushes, how do we calculate the amount of vegetated space? Can we count the entire area enclosed by the gravel/bushes mixture or do we have to exclude the gravel? Also, the bushes will grow over time and thus their amount of their "ground coverage" will increase over time. So, how has LEED historically handled this situation?

(2) While I understand that turf-grass doesn't count towards the 25% of vegetative space, would something like ice-plants be acceptable?

Best,

Michael

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David Posada

Integrated Design & LEED Specialist

SERA Architects

LEEDuser Expert

1361 thumbs up

Thu, 02/13/2020 - 01:16

Michael, The pervious soil area of landscaping is generally considered the vegetated space, not the surface area of the plants, since it's assumed the plants will spread across the soil and fill in over time. These would correspond to the areas shown on a landscaping plan drawing. I'm not that familiar with ice-plants, but I imagine they'd be acceptable for this open space credit, although they may not be considered native species for your region if you also pursue the Habitat credit.

emily reese moody

Sustainability Director, Certifications & Compliance

Jacobs

LEEDuser Expert

469 thumbs up

Thu, 02/13/2020 - 01:26

The ice plants I'm familiar with are around here in southern California, and are closer to succulents. If that's what Michael means, they're not good for recreation, but would be vegetated space for this credit provided it meets the required criteria for the open space aspect.

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