Rooftop Alternatives: Exploring Practical Greenhouse by Design Simulation for Sustainable City

Rapid urbanization has intensified the demand for sustainable strategies that balance food production, energy efficiency, and environmental quality within cities. Rooftop greenhouses (RTGs) have emerged as a promising architectural typology that integrates urban agriculture with building energy systems. This study explores practical alternatives for integrating rooftop greenhouses in urban contexts through design simulation. Using a parametric modeling and energy simulation framework, multiple RTG configurations were analyzed across different building types and uses. A key performance indicator—the energy balance—was assessed to identify optimal design strategies. The results demonstrate that design-integrated RTGs can significantly improve building energy performance and contribute to urban sustainability, particularly when adapted to regional climatic conditions. The findings provide quantitative evidence and design guidelines for architects and policymakers to support the adoption of rooftop greenhouse systems as a component of the sustainable city model.