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Landscape Design for Commercial Buildings: What You Need To Know

Discover how to elevate your commercial space with expert landscape design for commercial buildings. Learn key elements, benefits, and tips!

By Nick DiBenedetto

Landscape Design for Commercial Buildings Expands Your Brand with Beauty and Function

Landscape design for commercial buildings is a strategic blend of functionality and aesthetics. A well-designed landscape not only enhances the visual appeal of your property but also serves practical purposes like directing foot traffic and creating inviting spaces. Here's why landscape design is crucial for commercial buildings:

  1. Improves Curb Appeal: A visually appealing landscape draws attention and makes a positive first impression.
  2. Enhances Business Image: Thoughtful design elements can convey the brand's message and values.
  3. Increases Customer Engagement: Benches, pathways, and green spaces encourage visitors to stay longer and enjoy the space.
  4. Provides Environmental Benefits: Sustainable designs can reduce energy costs and help conserve water.
  5. Boosts Property Value: Properties with well-maintained landscapes are perceived as more valuable and can command higher rents.

At ND Landscape Services, we know your commercial property is a reflection of your brand. Our expert team is committed to crafting landscapes that not only fulfill your functional needs but also elevate the visual appeal of your space.

Ready to transform your property? Call us at 978-352-5400 or contact us here.


Key Elements of Commercial Landscape Design

Creating a beautiful and functional landscape for commercial buildings is all about balance. You need to combine natural elements, hardscapes, lighting, and furnishings to create an inviting and practical space.

Natural Elements

Natural elements like flowers, trees, and grass are essential for any landscape design. They add beauty and create a calming environment.

Biophilic design is the concept that humans are happier and healthier when connected to nature. This is particularly important in urban areas filled with concrete and asphalt. Incorporating natural elements can reduce stress and fatigue while boosting moods and creativity.

Consider using:

  • Flowers: Seasonal blooms that provide year-round color.
  • Trees: Shade trees that can also help reduce energy costs.
  • Grass: Lush lawns that offer a soft, inviting look.

Hardscapes and Construction

Commercial landscapes rely heavily on hardscapes for structure and functionality. These elements are more permanent and durable compared to natural elements.

Common hardscapes include:

  • Walkways and Sidewalks: Create clear paths for foot traffic.
  • Retaining Walls: Manage soil erosion and add visual interest.
  • Fountains: Serve as focal points and add a sense of tranquility.
  • Paved Patios and Decks: Provide outdoor spaces for dining or relaxing.

Why are these important? Hardscapes guide people through the space and enhance the overall function of the landscape.

Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in commercial landscape design for two main reasons:

  1. Aesthetics: Well-placed lighting can highlight the beauty of your landscape and make your property stand out, even at night.
  2. Safety: Proper lighting around entrances and pathways ensures that visitors can navigate the area safely.

Use lighting to:

  • Illuminate Pathways: Ensure safe navigation at night.
  • Highlight Features: Draw attention to architectural elements or focal points like fountains.

Furnishings

Once you have the perfect hardscape, furnishings add functionality and comfort to your commercial landscape. They create spaces where people can relax, eat, or even work.

Common furnishings include:

  • Benches: Provide seating for employees and visitors.
  • Bike Racks: Encourage eco-friendly transportation.
  • Planters: Add greenery to hardscaped areas.
  • Picnic Tables: Offer outdoor dining options.
  • Gazebos: Create sheltered spaces for gatherings.

Next, we'll dive into the process of designing a functional landscape plan, from site analysis to budget considerations.

Designing a Functional Landscape Plan

Creating a functional landscape design for commercial buildings requires careful planning and consideration. Let's break down the process into manageable steps, so you know what to expect.

Site Analysis and Planning

Site Analysis is the first step in designing a functional landscape. It's essential to understand the unique characteristics of your site. This includes:

  • Topography: Knowing the land's shape and slope helps in planning drainage and soil management.
  • Existing Features: Identify trees, structures, and other elements that will remain.
  • Sunlight and Shade: Determine which areas receive sunlight and which are shaded throughout the day.

Site Plan

When working with a professional landscaper, you can expect a detailed and organized process to ensure your commercial landscape is both beautiful and functional.

Scale Drawing: This is crucial for visualizing the whole project. A scale drawing accurately represents your property, showing the layout and dimensions.

Site Plan: A site plan includes the entire property, such as buildings and other permanent structures. It’s the blueprint for your landscape design.

  • 2D Plans: These provide a flat view of your landscape, making it easy to see the relationship between different elements.
  • 3D Plans: These give a lifelike view, helping you visualize how the final design will look in real life.

Maintenance and Budget Considerations

When designing a landscape for commercial properties, maintenance and budget are critical factors.

Low Maintenance plantings can save costs in the long run. Choose slow-growing bushes and plants that require minimal care. This reduces the need for constant tending and lowers maintenance costs.

Cost-Saving strategies are essential. Discuss maintenance requirements early in the design process. Incorporating low-maintenance features like automated sprinkler systems can significantly reduce water usage and labor costs.

Irrigation System: A quality irrigation system conserves water and energy. It ensures that your landscape remains lush and green without wasting resources. Proper planning of this system showcases the sustainability of your commercial space.

Energy Conservation can be achieved by strategically placing trees and shrubs. This provides shade in the summer and blocks cold winds in the winter, reducing energy costs for heating and cooling.

By considering these factors, you can create a landscape that is not only beautiful but also practical and cost-effective.

Next, we'll explore the benefits of professional commercial landscape design, including how it can enhance your business image and provide environmental and economic benefits.

Benefits of Professional Commercial Landscape Design

Enhancing Business Image

A well-designed landscape can do wonders for your business image. Professional landscape design can:

  • Attract clients: A beautiful and inviting landscape draws people in. According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, shoppers are willing to spend 9-12% more in areas with high-quality tree canopies and neatly trimmed gardens. This means more foot traffic and higher sales for your business.
  • Direct traffic: Use plants, shrubs, and walkways to guide people to your entrances. Highlighting entrance points with bold visual elements like trees and flower beds can make it easier for customers to find their way.
  • Accentuate architecture: Don’t let your building's architecture stand alone. Complement it with thoughtful landscaping. For example, add drama to the front entrance with colorful flowers or accentuate the driveway with lines of trees and shrubs.
  • Convey your brand message: Your landscape can reflect your brand’s identity. Whether you want to project a professional, fun, or sustainable image, there are design elements to convey that message. Think Zen gardens for a soothing atmosphere or green roofs for an eco-friendly vibe.
  • Encourage customer engagement: Create seating areas with benches, tables, and low walls. This invites people to stay longer, enjoy the space, and engage more with your business. Outdoor lounge areas with features like fire pits and lawn games can make your property a destination.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Professional landscape design isn’t just about looks. It can also offer significant environmental and economic benefits:

  • Water conservation: Opt for native plants that require less water and maintenance. Installing efficient irrigation systems can further reduce water usage.
  • Energy savings: Strategic landscaping can help control your building’s temperature. Trees and shrubs can provide shade in the summer and block harsh winds in the winter, reducing heating and cooling costs.
  • Green roofs: Adding a green roof can help manage water runoff and improve insulation, leading to lower energy bills. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase your commitment to sustainability.
  • Sustainable design: Incorporating sustainable practices like using recycled materials and planting drought-resistant plants can reduce your environmental impact.

Implementing these strategies not only makes your property more attractive but also demonstrates your commitment to sustainability, which can be a significant selling point for eco-conscious customers.

Next, we'll delve into the comprehensive services offered by ND Landscape Services and how we can help you achieve a high standard of landscape management.

Commercial Landscaping from ND

At ND Landscape Services, we pride ourselves on delivering comprehensive services that cater to all your commercial landscape design needs. From initial planning to ongoing maintenance, we ensure every detail is managed to the highest standard.

Our high standard of service means you can expect meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach. We understand that a well-designed landscape can enhance your business image, attract clients, and conserve resources. That's why we offer a wide range of services, including landscape maintenance, snow and ice management, and tree care, all under one roof.

Operating in Greater Boston and Southern New Hampshire, we have built a reputation for excellence over four decades. Our clients trust us to keep their properties beautiful, safe, and functional throughout the year.

Choosing ND Landscape Services means choosing convenience. You won’t need to juggle multiple contractors; we handle everything. Our award-winning design and construction division ensures that your property enhancements are executed flawlessly, leading to increased property value and customer satisfaction.

Ready to elevate your commercial landscape? Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you create a stunning and functional outdoor space. Call us at 978-352-5400.


(978) 352-5400