Commercial Landscape Design: 7 Key Tips for Stunning Spaces 2024

Creating Impactful Spaces: The Essentials of Commercial Landscape Design

Commercial landscape design is the method of planning green spaces, hardscapes, and lighting around commercial properties. It’s essential for creating welcoming, functional, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor areas that can make a significant difference in attracting clients and tenants.

Key elements of commercial landscape design include:

• Hardscape and construction: Walkways, retaining walls, and patios.
• Lighting: Ensures aesthetics and safety.
• Plants and gardens: Incorporate nature to reduce stress.
• Furnishings: Benches, bike racks, and gazebos for added functionality.

If you need a quick answer on the importance of commercial landscape design:

• Functionality: Directs foot traffic and improves usability.
• Aesthetics: Creates inviting and visually appealing spaces.
• Safety: Improves visibility with proper lighting.
• Biophilic design: Reduces urban stress with greenery.

I’m Scott McLeod, the owner of McLeod Landscaping with over three decades of experience in commercial landscape design. My team and I specialize in changing commercial spaces into attractive, functional areas that improve visitor experience and property value.

Must-know commercial landscape design terms:
– commercial landscaper
– what is commercial landscape

Principles of Commercial Landscape Design

To create impactful commercial landscapes, you need to follow some core principles. These principles ensure that your design is not only beautiful but also functional and sustainable. Let’s explore these key principles: Proportion, Order, Repetition, and Unity.

Proportion

Proportion is about the size relationship between different elements in your landscape. Imagine placing a tiny bench next to a massive tree—it just looks off. Everything should be in scale to create a balanced look.

For example, if you have a large building, you might want to use bigger trees and larger plant groupings to match the scale. Smaller plants and furnishings would be better suited for more intimate spaces like a courtyard.

Order

Order refers to the organization of elements in your landscape. This can be achieved through symmetry or asymmetry. Symmetrical designs create a formal, balanced look by mirroring elements on either side of a central axis.

On the other hand, asymmetrical designs use different elements that are balanced in visual weight but not identical. This can add interest and make the space feel dynamic. For instance, a large tree on one side of a walkway can be balanced by a group of smaller shrubs on the other.

Repetition

Repetition involves using repeating patterns, colors, or textures to create a cohesive look. This guides the eye through the landscape and makes the space feel unified.

For example, you can plant a series of identical trees along a pathway or use the same type of flower in multiple flower beds. This not only creates a sense of rhythm but also ties different areas of the landscape together.

Unity

Unity is about making sure all the elements in your landscape work together to create a harmonious whole. This doesn’t mean everything has to match exactly, but there should be a common theme or style that ties everything together.

Unity can be achieved through the use of similar colors, textures, or shapes. For example, if you’re using a modern design, you might stick to minimalist plant choices and geometric hardscapes to keep the theme consistent.

By incorporating these principles, you can create a commercial landscape that’s not only visually appealing but also functional and sustainable. Up next, we’ll dive into the Key Elements in Commercial Landscape Design to help you understand what components are essential for creating a successful outdoor space.

Key Elements in Commercial Landscape Design

Creating a successful commercial landscape design involves more than just planting some trees and laying down grass. It’s about combining different elements to create a space that’s both beautiful and functional. Here are the key components you need to consider: Hardscape, Softscape, Lighting, and Furnishings.

Hardscape

Hardscape refers to the non-living, structural elements in a landscape. These are crucial for defining the space and creating a framework for the design.

• Walkways and Sidewalks: These guide people through the landscape and direct them to entrances. Using materials like pavers or natural stone can improve traction and safety.
• Retaining Walls: These hold back soil on slopes and can be both functional and decorative.
• Fountains and Water Features: These add a focal point and provide a relaxing ambiance.
• Patios and Decks: These offer outdoor seating areas for relaxation or dining.

Why are these important? Hardscapes contribute to the overall function and aesthetics of the space. For example, paved paths help direct traffic flow and make the area more accessible.

Softscape

Softscape includes all the living elements of a landscape, such as plants and gardens. These add color, texture, and life to the space.

• Trees and Shrubs: These provide shade, improve air quality, and add visual interest.
• Flower Beds: These can be used to add seasonal color and attract pollinators.
• Lawns: These offer open spaces for activities and events.

Biophilic design is a key concept here. It’s the idea that people are happier when they feel closer to nature. Incorporating plants and gardens into your design can reduce stress and improve moods.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for both aesthetics and safety.

• Aesthetic Lighting: This highlights architectural features and makes the landscape stand out at night. For example, uplighting can be used to showcase a beautiful tree or building facade.
• Safety Lighting: This ensures that pathways and entrances are well-lit, making the area safe for employees and customers. LED lights are a popular choice due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan.

Why is lighting important? It improves the visual appeal of the landscape and ensures safety during evening hours.

Furnishings

Furnishings add functionality to the landscape, making it a more usable space.

• Benches and Seating Areas: These provide places for people to rest and socialize.
• Bike Racks: These encourage eco-friendly transportation.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: These can be used for outdoor dining and events.
• Garbage Bins: These help keep the area clean.

Why are furnishings important? They make the space more user-friendly. For example, adding benches and picnic tables gives employees and customers a place to relax and eat lunch.

By carefully selecting and incorporating these key elements, you can create a commercial landscape that is both beautiful and functional. Next, we’ll explore The Process of Designing a Commercial Landscape, guiding you through the steps from site plan to final renderings.

The Process of Designing a Commercial Landscape

Designing a commercial landscape is a step-by-step process that ensures every detail is planned and executed perfectly. Let’s break down the essential steps:

Site Plan

Everything starts with a site plan. This is a detailed map of the property, showing existing structures, boundaries, and major features.

• Why it’s important: A site plan helps you understand the space you’re working with. It shows how much room you have for landscaping and where you can place new elements.

You can create a site plan in a program like Cedreo. Just import the property’s blueprint or draw it from scratch. This gives you a clear picture of the layout before you start designing.

2D Landscape Plan

Once you have the site plan, the next step is a 2D landscape plan. This is a flat, bird’s-eye view of your landscape design.

• What it includes: Paths, plant beds, hardscapes, lighting, and furnishings. It shows the placement of each element in relation to others.

Creating a 2D landscape plan can be done easily with design software. This plan helps you visualize the layout and make adjustments before moving to the next step.

3D Landscape Plan

The 3D landscape plan is where your design starts to come to life. This three-dimensional model shows your landscape from different angles, giving you a realistic view of how it will look.

• Why it’s useful: A 3D plan helps you and your client see the final product. It’s easier to spot potential issues and make changes before any work begins.

Programs like Cedreo make it simple to turn your 2D plan into a 3D model. This step is crucial for ensuring the design meets your client’s expectations.

Renderings

Renderings are detailed, high-quality images of your landscape design. They show the colors, textures, and lighting effects, making your design look as real as possible.

• Why they matter: Renderings help you sell your vision to clients. They can see exactly what the finished landscape will look like, which makes it easier to get their approval.

With modern design software, creating renderings is straightforward. You can produce stunning visuals that highlight every aspect of your design, from the lush greenery to the neat hardscapes.

By following these steps—site plan, 2D landscape plan, 3D landscape plan, and renderings—you can create a detailed and compelling commercial landscape design that meets your client’s needs and expectations.

Next, we’ll dig into the Benefits of Professional Commercial Landscape Design, exploring how a well-designed landscape can boost visual appeal, functionality, brand image, and energy efficiency.

Benefits of Professional Commercial Landscape Design

Investing in professional commercial landscape design offers numerous benefits. Let’s explore how it can improve visual appeal, create functional spaces, boost your brand image, and improve energy efficiency.

Visual Appeal

First impressions matter. A well-designed landscape can significantly improve the visual appeal of your property.

• Curb Appeal: According to real estate experts, professional landscaping can increase property value by up to 20%. This is because attractive landscaping is often one of the first things potential clients notice.
• Seasonal Beauty: Incorporating plants that bloom in different seasons ensures your landscape looks vibrant all year round. For example, using ornamental grasses, evergreen shrubs, and flowering perennials can add depth and color throughout the year.

Functional Space

A thoughtfully designed landscape isn’t just beautiful; it’s also functional.

• Engagement: Adding benches, tables, and fountains can encourage people to stay longer and engage with your business.
• Traffic Flow: Elements like paths and walkways lined with shrubs or trees can guide visitors to entrances, making navigation easier and more intuitive.

Brand Image

Your landscape can speak volumes about your brand.

• Conveying Messages: Different landscape elements can convey various brand messages. For instance, Zen features can create a soothing atmosphere, while minimalist geometric designs can project an edgy, modern image.
• Attracting Clients: A well-maintained, inviting landscape can attract more clients and make them feel welcome. Conversely, poorly maintained landscapes can turn potential customers away.

Energy Efficiency

A smart landscape design can also contribute to energy savings.

• Natural Climate Control: Strategically placed trees and shrubs can provide shade in the summer and block cold winds in the winter, reducing heating and cooling costs.
• Green Roofs: Adding a green roof can help control water runoff and further reduce heating and cooling expenses.

By focusing on these key benefits—visual appeal, functional space, brand image, and energy efficiency—you can create a commercial landscape that not only looks great but also serves practical purposes and aligns with your business goals.

Next, we’ll discuss Incorporating Sustainability into Commercial Landscape Design, highlighting how you can make your landscape both beautiful and environmentally friendly.

Incorporating Sustainability into Commercial Landscape Design

Creating a sustainable landscape is not just good for the environment; it can also save money and improve the appeal of your property. Let’s look at some key ways to incorporate sustainability into commercial landscape design:

Biophilic Design

Biophilic design connects people with nature. This approach can improve mental well-being and productivity.

• Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like plants, water features, and natural lighting. This can create a calming and inviting atmosphere.
• Green Walls: Adding green walls inside or outside your building can improve air quality and provide insulation.

Water Conservation

Water is a precious resource, and conserving it should be a top priority.

• Efficient Irrigation Systems: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water plants directly at the roots. This minimizes evaporation and ensures plants get the moisture they need.
• Smart Watering Practices: Water plants during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening, to reduce water loss through evaporation.
• Mulch: Applying mulch around plants helps retain soil moisture and reduces the need for frequent watering.

Energy Savings

A well-designed landscape can also help save energy.

• Shading and Windbreaks: Planting trees and shrubs strategically can provide shade in the summer and block cold winds in the winter. This reduces the need for heating and cooling.
• Green Roofs: Adding a green roof can control water runoff and provide insulation, which helps reduce heating and cooling costs.

Eco-friendly Materials

Using eco-friendly materials can further improve the sustainability of your landscape.

• Recycled and Local Materials: Opt for recycled materials like reclaimed wood or crushed recycled concrete for pathways. Using local materials reduces transportation emissions and supports the local economy.
• Natural Pest Control: Instead of chemical pesticides, use natural alternatives like neem oil or diatomaceous earth. These are less harmful to the environment and non-target wildlife.

Native Plants

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them a sustainable choice.

• Less Maintenance: Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides. This reduces maintenance and conserves resources.
• Support Local Wildlife: Native plants provide habitat and food sources for local wildlife, including birds, bees, and butterflies.
• Erosion Control: Native plants have deep root systems that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

By incorporating these sustainable practices, you can create a commercial landscape that is not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. This approach not only saves money in the long run but also contributes to a healthier planet.

Next, we’ll answer some Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial Landscape Design, addressing common concerns and providing expert insights.

Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial Landscape Design

What’s the difference between landscape architecture and landscape design?

Landscape architecture and landscape design may seem similar, but they have key differences.

• Landscape Architecture: This involves large-scale projects and requires a licensed professional. Landscape architects handle complex aspects like topography, climate, and sustainability. They often design public parks, campuses, and large commercial properties.
• Landscape Design: This focuses more on the aesthetics and softscaping. Landscape designers might not have formal education or licensing. They work on smaller projects like gardens and residential properties, emphasizing plant selection and garden layouts.

How do landscape designers make money?

Landscape designers earn money through various channels:

• Design Fees: Charging clients for creating landscape plans and designs.
• Consultation Fees: Offering expert advice and consultations for a fee.
• Installation Services: Many designers also provide installation services, earning money by executing their designs.
• Maintenance Contracts: Some designers offer ongoing maintenance services, ensuring landscapes remain beautiful and functional.

What should be included in a commercial landscape design?

A successful commercial landscape design should include several key elements:

• Hardscapes: Walkways, retaining walls, fences, and decks. These elements provide structure and guide traffic flow.
• Lighting: Essential for aesthetics and safety. Proper lighting highlights features and ensures safe navigation at night.
• Plants & Gardens: Incorporate native plants and biophilic design to create a stress-relieving environment. This includes trees, shrubs, and flower beds.
• Furnishings: Benches, bike racks, garbage bins, and picnic tables. These add functionality and comfort to the space.
• Water Features: Fountains or small ponds can improve the aesthetic appeal and create a soothing atmosphere.
• Sustainable Elements: Efficient irrigation systems, eco-friendly materials, and native plants. These elements reduce maintenance costs and support environmental sustainability.

By including these components, you can create a commercial landscape that is both beautiful and functional.

Next, we’ll conclude with the benefits of choosing McLeod Landscaping for your commercial landscape design needs.

Conclusion

At McLeod Landscaping, we believe that commercial landscape design is more than just placing plants and hardscapes. It’s about creating spaces that leave a lasting impression, foster engagement, and reflect your brand’s identity.

Why Choose Us?

Expertise and Experience: With years of industry experience, our team is skilled in changing outdoor spaces into stunning landscapes that stand the test of time. We’ve handled projects of all sizes, from simple garden makeovers to complex hardscaping.

Customized Solutions: We understand that every commercial space is unique. That’s why we offer personalized landscaping solutions custom to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re aiming for a serene garden retreat or a vibrant outdoor living area, we bring your vision to life.

Commitment to Sustainability: We prioritize eco-friendly practices in all our projects. From selecting native plants to implementing water-efficient techniques, we strive to create landscapes that are not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible.

Outstanding Customer Service: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We work closely with you throughout the entire process—from the initial consultation to the final walkthrough—to ensure every detail meets your expectations.

Proven Track Record: Our reputation speaks for itself. Clients consistently praise our professionalism, reliability, and exceptional quality of work.

Ready to transform your commercial space into something spectacular? Visit our Commercial Landscaping Services page to learn more and get started.

Let us help you create an outdoor space that you and your visitors will enjoy for years to come. At McLeod Landscaping, we’re not just building landscapes; we’re crafting the backdrop for your business’s best moments.