When planning a commercial area or public space, the surrounding landscape plays a crucial role in overall success. It helps increase aesthetic value, improves functionality, and supports long-term environmental sustainability.The expertise of a landscape architect can make a meaningful difference in a project’s outcome. Below are four ways landscape architecture adds value to commercial spaces while saving time and money in the long run.
The Grifols E750 Office Building features a pedestrian corridor that leads visitors and employees to the main plaza between the buildings.
Boosting Curb Appeal & First Impressions
The exterior of a commercial space is often the first thing visitors or clients see. Because of this, a well-designed landscape can greatly improve curb appeal and make your business more inviting and attractive. Landscape architects can implement verdant plants, unique hardscaping details, and preserve preexisting trees that add character to a building’s exterior. Since first impressions matter, a visually appealing landscape can strike an aesthetically pleasing note with customers.
Horseshoe Farm Nature Reserve balances a large open meadow, wetlands and shoreline environments alongside walking trails, restrooms and parking spaces for visitors.
Creating Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Sites
Landscape architects are trained to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their designs. For example, they often use native plants, implementing efficient irrigation systems, and designing with water conservation in mind. In addition, landscape architects help reduce the environmental impact of building projects while carving out space that supports biodiversity and the local ecosystem. Over time, these sustainable practices can reduce long-term maintenance costs and promote environmentally friendly attitudes among business owners.
Raleigh’s Capital Center reimagines the exterior amenity space by creating walkways and shaded spots for outdoor meetings and lunch breaks.
Maximizing Exterior Usability
Commercial and public spaces should be people-centric, and landscape architects approach projects with usability and ease of access in mind. They carefully consider how people will interact with the space, ensuring that everything from safe pedestrian passageways to shaded areas for relaxation are included. Site plans for businesses also benefit from landscape architects who can optimize accessibility in outdoor spaces for those with disabilities. By prioritizing site usability, commercial spaces can be comfortable and welcoming for all.
The South Miami Boulevard expansion was constructed among preexisting buildings, and required careful attention to details to ensure it met code regulations.
Permitting & Regulation Maestros
Navigating the permitting process and regulatory requirements can be complex, but landscape architects help simplify it. All commercial and public-oriented projects must comply with zoning laws, environmental regulations, and accessibility standards. Landscape architects understand these requirements and ensure designs meet all necessary codes and guidelines. As a result, they help streamline approvals while reducing the risk of costly delays or fines.
If your project involves people-focused work environments, water management, or integration with existing roadways or surrounding buildings, HagerSmith Design’s landscape architects can help orient your commercial build for success. To learn more about landscape architecture and their range of services, click here.