Wellness by Design: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces Using an Artificial Turf System

Rooftop spaces in healthcare and commercial settings face a unique challenge: how do you create inviting, nature-infused environments in locations that demand durability, safety, and low maintenance? This is especially important for hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and wellness-focused facilities, where outdoor areas must support healing, recovery, and well-being.

One way that facilities can achieve their goals of durability and design is with an artificial turf system engineered for rooftops. Bison Innovative Products, in partnership with Fibergrate Composite Structures, has brought together trusted solutions for industrial-grade pedestals and durable Micro-Mesh® molded grating surfaces, providing an ideal surface for any industrial artificial turf. This system enhances outdoor healing environments without compromising drainage, durability, or long-term performance.

Designing With Green Space in Healthcare Settings

Outdoor environments are increasingly seen as essential components of healthcare design. When natural greenery is difficult to incorporate due to structural or maintenance constraints, an artificial turf solution offers:

• Visual and tactile access to greenery. The presence of green elements has been linked to improved recovery times, reduced stress, and enhanced mood.
  
  
• Low-maintenance surfaces. Unlike natural grass, artificial turf does not require watering, mowing, or seasonal replanting.
  
  
• Applications across healthcare facilities. Rooftop healing gardens, physical therapy terraces, and memory care walking paths all benefit from comfortable, safe, and accessible green zones.

How Turf Integrates With Pedestal Deck Systems

The performance of an artificial turf system depends on what’s underneath. Bison’s rooftop turf solution combines:

• Bison adjustable pedestals create a level surface on sloped rooftops and facilitate drainage.
  
• Fibergrate FRP Micro-Mesh® molded grating. Installed on the pedestals to create a surface for the turf, this grating creates structural stability and promotes efficient water runoff.

This layered system creates a stable walking surface while protecting the roof membrane. The open mesh design of the grating also supports airflow and reduces water accumulation beneath the surface.

Due to Bison’s modular pedestal system, turf can be used alongside concrete or porcelain pavers. Architects are able to design multifunctional rooftops with zones for therapy, recreation, or rest.

A New System Purpose-Built for Rooftop Environments

On September 8, 2025, Bison Innovative Products and Fibergrate formally launched the industry’s first integrated artificial turf system designed specifically for commercial rooftops. Key product highlights include:

• Load-bearing performance. Bison pedestals support up to 1,250 pounds (with a safety factor of 3), allowing them to accommodate furniture, planters, and foot traffic without stressing the rooftop membrane.
• Durable grating layer. The Fibergrate FRP Micro-Mesh® molded grating offers stability and drainage in high-traffic applications.
• Modular integration. The turf surface can be combined with other modular surfaces, including stone and wood-alternative pavers, for fully customized outdoor areas.

This system is ideal for projects across hospitality, commercial, healthcare, and multi-family residential sectors, where rooftop spaces need to perform without compromising aesthetics or safety.

Supporting Wellness Through Surface Design 

The integration of artificial turf into rooftop environments reflects a growing shift in urban design: surfaces aren’t just structural, they’re experiential. Bison’s artificial turf system supports human wellness through thoughtful engineering, allowing outdoor areas to feel welcoming while meeting rigorous performance requirements.

Contact Bison Innovative Products to explore how this modular solution can help bring comfort, drainage, and design flexibility to your next rooftop project.

FAQ

What are the benefits of using an artificial turf system on rooftops?

An artificial turf system provides the look and feel of grass without the ongoing maintenance. It supports year-round use, reduces water usage, and creates safe, slip-resistant surfaces ideal for healthcare and wellness spaces.

Can artificial turf be combined with other rooftop materials?

Yes. Bison’s pedestal and grating system supports modular surfaces, so the artificial turf system can be installed alongside pavers or tiles. This allows for zoning and flexibility in rooftop design.

How do pedestals improve artificial turf installations?

Pedestals elevate the surface above the roof membrane, providing airflow and drainage. They also ensure level, secure placement even on sloped substrates.

Important Notice
Bison Innovative Products recommends that all rooftop deck systems should be installed by a licensed contractor with at least 2 years of proven experience. Plans/designs for a rooftop deck should be reviewed by a structural engineer before commencing construction. The roof must be able to safely carry the static and live load weights of the rooftop deck, and any amenities added along with the appropriate density of any insulation to resist crushing and damaging the waterproof membrane. Adding items such as hardscaping features, hot tubs, or pools to a rooftop deck requires additional guidance and oversight from an engineer. Property owners should research and abide by any building codes and other regulations to obtain the required permits prior to having a rooftop deck installed. Please read all product specifications posted on BisonIP.com to review all information prior to any installation.