Set within the grounds of Eltham Lodge, Royal Blackheath Golf Club occupies a site of exceptional historic significance. As the oldest golf club in England, the setting is defined by the presence of the Grade I listed Lodge, a Restoration-era building that continues to shape the character of the surrounding landscape.
When plans were developed for a new pavilion adjacent to the Lodge, it was clear that any addition would need to sit comfortably within this sensitive environment. A key part of achieving this was the introduction of a green roof that could soften the structure and help it integrate naturally into its surroundings.
Sedum Supply were proud to provide a complete sedum and wildflower roof system for the project, designed to complement both the architecture and the wider landscape.
Covering approximately 105m², the roof was formed using a modular Smart Box system, allowing for a consistent and efficient installation while supporting a diverse planting scheme. The introduction of wildflower elements alongside the sedum helps to create a more varied and natural appearance, enhancing the overall visual impact of the roof.
The system build-up included a specialist drainage layer, engineered growing medium and a fully established sedum carpet. This layered approach creates a lightweight and free-draining solution that supports healthy plant growth while managing rainwater effectively.
As with all Sedum Supply systems, the focus was not only on appearance but also on long-term performance. The combination of drainage, substrate and established planting ensures the roof can sustain itself with minimal intervention once established.
Sedum roofs are particularly well suited to projects of this nature, offering a robust and low maintenance solution that can adapt to changing weather conditions. The planting itself will continue to evolve over time, with seasonal variation bringing subtle changes in colour and texture throughout the year.
In addition to its visual qualities, the green roof contributes to biodiversity by supporting pollinators and creating valuable habitat within the built environment.
The completed roof now sits comfortably within the grounds of Royal Blackheath Golf Club. From a distance, it reads as an extension of the surrounding landscape, helping the pavilion to blend into its setting rather than stand apart from it.
Projects such as this demonstrate how carefully designed green roof systems can play an important role in sensitive environments, offering both aesthetic and environmental benefits while respecting the character of historic sites.
The installation was carried out by MJ Rooney Construction, delivering a high-quality finish that reflects the care and consideration given to the project.
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