Ariel Rios South Courtyard, Washington, D.C.

Green Infrastructure and storm water management create a "living classroom".

This is an example of a government green infrastructure and storm water management project completed at the Ariel Rios Building.  The Ariel Rios Federal Building is located in the Federal Triangle in the Nation’s Capital, across 12th Street from the Old Post Office (i.e. the new building it was designed to replace).

Excavation and placement of storm water collecting cistern.
 

Specialized paving materials includes porous concrete and permeable pavers. Sandstone patio drains into cistern.
 

Storm water is collected in the cistern, and re-distributed through the irrigation system to landscape plantings.
 

Almost all plants are native to the region. This attracts wildlife and reduces maintenance costs.
 

Fountain draws wildlife into a natural habitat, and is a focal point for the landscape (also drowns out urban noise).

Aerial view shows a completely sustainable garden and park retreat for visitors and federal employees.