From welcoming outdoor spaces to rich, vibrant turf and trees, commercial landscapes have to serve a number of purposes for employees, customers, and visitors.The right landscape makes a great first impression and can have a positive impact on the businesses that prioritize this essential aspect of property management.
But aside from the basics, what makes a commercial property really pop?
A Shifting Landscape
Since the pandemic, the commercial real estate environment has seen significant changes. Many companies have mandated a return to the office, but others are still fully remote or have a hybrid schedule with employees in the building only part of the work week. But whatever the facility or the schedule, expectations have shifted for commercial property managers.
Employees, customers, and guests – even patients in hospitals – benefit from welcoming outdoor spaces that are well-maintained and safe. From meeting areas outside office buildings to serene courtyards at hospitals where patients and visitors can enjoy the benefits of nature. Extending the usable space to the outside areas of your building can be a huge boost to morale, mental and physical health, and the perception of the property overall.
Check out some of the latest trends to see how they can benefit your commercial landscape this year and transform your property into a more functional outdoor space for everyone.
Safety & Sustainability
When it comes to sustainable landscape design, there are dozens of techniques property managers can use to both reduce their environmental footprint, and to improve the health and safety of the property overall. Installing permeable pavers for walkways, improving drainage and stormwater management, and using plants that are native to the area can all help protect your property and reduce maintenance.
Native species don’t just help create a low-maintenance landscape, they’re also naturally more resilient to the stresses of the environment. They typically require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native species, and healthier green investments – especially trees – can help reduce the risk of injury and property damage from roots, falling limbs, or debris.
Technology & Automation
Thanks to AI, machine learning, and a slew of other technological advances, property managers are able to automate and optimize like never before. From smart irrigation and lighting systems to robotic mowers and other GPS-enabled equipment, landscape providers can get more done in less time – and that’s a huge benefit for property managers.
Along with productivity, using smart systems can make your operation more efficient as well. For example, modern irrigation controls can use weather data to control the amount and duration of each cycle and monitor themselves for leaks or other issues that could impact the effectiveness or performance of the system, helping to reduce maintenance and operating costs in the long run.
Functionality & Accessibility
Whether your outdoor spaces are accessible all year or for a precious few months every summer, research has consistently shown that the sensory benefits from being outdoors can improve well-being and mental health. So from hospital patients to employees, providing inviting, accessible outdoor green spaces shows you’re committed to providing the very best for everyone who visits your property.
These spaces can be anything from dining and meeting areas to walking paths and nature trails. Incorporating pollinator gardens and other wildlife-friendly areas can also improve the overall aesthetic of these outdoor spaces, making these common areas even more welcoming for individuals looking for a retreat.
Need A Helping Hand?
Whatever your plans are for the 2025 growing season, working with a proven partner like Davey can help you take your commercial property to the next level and ensure you’re up to date with the latest trends. Our teams of professionals can assess your property’s needs, perform any necessary upgrades, and maintain your landscape all year long with over 140 years of experience.
LOOKING FOR A REFRESH? CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DAVEY REPRESENTATIVE TODAY!
