If you’re in the process of either designing or updating the outdoor area of your commercial property, you probably already know that the space needs to provide a combination of function and aesthetic appeal. Hardscaping plays a vital role in providing commercial landscapes with definition, texture, and general usability. Here’s what you need to know about incorporating hardscaping features effectively in your commercial landscape:
Create Defined Entryways and Walkways
Walkways and entryways serve as the heart of commercial landscaping. Durable materials such as stone, brick, or concrete are both functional and inviting, guiding visitors to key areas such as the front entrance, parking lots, or outdoor gathering spaces. Consider adding visual interest using contrasting textures and/or colors and incorporating lighting to enhance visibility and create a welcoming atmosphere after the sun goes down.
Add Outdoor Seating for Comfort and Functionality
If you have significant foot traffic, employees, or customers who need a place to relax outdoors, outdoor seating provides a warm and hospitable aesthetic. Options range from simple benches to tables and chairs in shaded areas. Natural materials such as natural stone ensure optimal durability and require only a minimum of maintenance.
Use Retaining Walls for Style and Structure
For commercial properties that have uneven terrain, retaining walls offer an excellent way to make the area more usable while adding a touch of charm. Typical materials for retaining walls include stone, brick, or concrete. Not only do retaining walls transform slopes into terraced areas for planting flowers and greenery, but they also bring a visual boundary to the picture, defining different areas within the landscape. On larger properties, retaining walls are invaluable for discouraging erosion and helping with proper drainage, contributing to both function and form.
Incorporate Water Features for a Tranquil Environment
Fountains, ponds, and even small waterfalls add a calming effect to any commercial property, helping visitors, employees, and those passing by feel more peaceful and relaxed. Water feature options using recirculating water systems are a good choice for commercial properties because they require less maintenance than others. With the right lighting and placement, water features can become a highlight of your property, especially during the evening hours.
Designate Gathering Spaces
Designated outdoor gathering spaces make outdoor properties feel more accessible and engaging, large properties. A courtyard or patio crafted from pavers or natural stone provides an area that employees can use for breaks, meetings, or events and where visitors can rest. Use sturdy outdoor furnishings along with strategically placed planters for floral displays and greenery. These areas can be particularly beneficial in hospitality, retail, or office settings where people may spend a significant amount of time.
Utilize Planters for Versatile Greenery
Planters are made from a wide range of materials, including stone, wood, concrete, stucco, fiberglass, metal, and even plastic. They bring definition to the space and add color, softening the appearance of areas with a significant amount of pavement and other hardscaping elements. Planters can also be moved, which offers the flexibility to refresh the ambiance of your property, and as an added bonus, you can also switch out flowers and greenery to reflect different seasons.
When planning a commercial space, be sure to consider which hardscaping features would work well for the area and make a plan to add them to the space.