Commercial property landscaping involves much more than what the average homeowner needs to think about. Beautiful scenery is important, but there’s also functionality, efficiency, budgeting, safety and other issues that need to be taken into account. Here at Rainscape, we’ve been helping commercial property managers and business owners design, install and maintain commercial landscapes that are both attractive and functional. If your property is in need of an update, we’ve rounded up a few ideas perfect for the new year.
#1 Make it enjoyable, workable – and social media friendly
More work is getting done outdoors these days. Commercial landscapes that take into account work functionality, as well as aesthetics, are a big trend in commercial landscaping these days. Think strategic shaded areas with comfortable seating, wi-fi accessibility, hidden speakers playing soothing or seasonal music, and settings that inspire people to share on Facebook, Snapchat or Instagram.
Working with a professional landscape design company like Rainscape to set up something like this can produce benefits beyond an attractive setting such as: happy employees who can take a break from cubicle life while still remaining productive, free advertising/marketing from social media shares, and an influx of new customers or business opportunities by creating spaces that attract networking or co-working groups.
#2 Fire safe landscaping
Recent fires throughout California have made many business owners, commercial property managers, and public works administrators ask what they can do to make their property safe. One answer is implementing fire-safe landscaping. Strategic planning by a commercial landscape design company like Rainscape will start with the basics such as brush management, native and fire-resistant plantings, and the creation of defensible zones that adhere to the standards set by California law.
#3 Low-maintenance landscapes
High-maintenance landscaping requires more time and money to maintain, something budget-conscious businesses shy away from. That’s why more and more commercial property managers are opting for low maintenance designs that incorporate long-lasting and low-maintenance trees, ground covering and other materials that need less water, fertilizer and manpower for the long term.
#4 Energy-efficient commercial landscapes
While low-maintenance landscapes save in water and labor, energy-efficient landscaping designs take it a step further to help companies save money in heating and cooling costs. Strategically-placed trees, shrubs and hardscape installations can provide shade from summer sun and insulation from winter’s cold.
#5 Irrigation upgrades
If your irrigation system was installed more than 5 years ago, you probably need an upgrade. Today’s irrigation technology can save companies thousands of dollars per year in wasted water costs. Here at Rainscape, we help commercial property managers determine the right type of irrigation systems for their needs, then install and maintain them for maximum effectiveness. Up-to-date irrigation systems help maintain the beauty of your site, while also lowering utility costs and reducing water usage and wastewater. From quick audits to identifying inefficient irrigations systems and installing smart controllers, Rainscape can help with all your commercial landscape needs.
If you are a commercial property manager in Visalia or the San Joaquin and Central Valley area, and ready to update your property’s landscaping, we can help. Our team brings to the table a wide range of skills and experience to create beautiful, functional and forward-thinking landscaping solutions for residential, commercial and public works projects.