In addition to providing the necessary glazing shading, the vertical “reeds” also support plant growth and provide a native ecosystem around the building. Selected from the bio-region for their qualities of beauty, drought tolerance, soil adaptability, and compatibility with security guidelines, the planting scheme is conceived as a lush, robust landscape that provides a unique setting for the re-birth of this urban building. A tapestry of climbing vines, unique to each solar exposure, connects the facade to the ground plane and surrounding landscape and communicates GSA’s green commitment.