There is a lot to consider when it comes to landscaping your commercial or residential property. Ideally, a well-designed landscape incorporates a balance between the hardscape and softscape & that both elements are proportionate to the property size. So what exactly does each entail?
Hardscape is the structural, heavy-duty aspects of landscaping. Decisions will be around shape, foundation and drainage system of the yard. This usually entails hard materials such as concrete, bricks, and stone which makes it the more expensive part of your budget. It is also more permanent than soft landscaping and requires hiring a professional with the right experience and equipment to put everything in place.
Many of your outdoor lifestyle features are hardscape such as paths or patios, outdoor kitchens, water features, gazebos and decks. Landscapers will help to ensure that there is a flow to these elements so you, your family and guests can relax and enjoy the different areas.
Softscape is all the growing stuff, like perennial flowers, shrubs, succulents, and trees plus lighting and smaller water features can also be included in the design planning. Choices will be around colours, shapes, textures, and sizes, plus ensuring the right plant for the climate and garden area. Soft landscaping is more about those personal touches, allowing for creativity and individuality as to how your yard looks.
When it comes to residential or acreage landscaping too much hardscape can result in a harsh and commercial visual effect. While too many trees, shrubs or flowers may look chaotic and require a lot of work to maintain in an attractive manner.
With commercial landscaping, the design will be less about lifestyle and more about your business image and customer needs. An unattractive and general run-down appearance will not encourage new or repeat business. A well planned and maintained property is safer too for staff and visitors alike.
Hardscape will be more predominant but including appropriate plants, flowers and light features can enhance your visual appeal. When meeting with a landscaping company there are a few things to consider:
If you have signature brand colours, adding a few splashes of matching flower colours is a great way to help your commercial property stand out from your neighbours. Landscaping should help direct new visitors to the most important parts of your building: the main entrance, parking and drop-off spots.
It is important for your design to reflect your company and its value. Do you want to be seen as an environmentally-friendly company? Then make sure you select native plants that will be easily sustainable and that you are incorporating green features.
Whatever the outdoor space – take the time to think about what is important to you, do some research, then meet with a professional landscaper. Most importantly enjoy the process so the end result truly reflects who you are.
