Posted: February 19, 2020 by Sebert
Just like fashion has its little black dress, television has its reality shows, and cinema has its 3-D enhancements and special effects, commercial landscaping also has its own set of trends for the coming season.
And just as many influences drive current trends in style and film, certain stimuli can impact trends on commercial properties, including weather, generational shifts in clientele and even cost.
Here are some of the big trends Sebert experts are seeing in our commercial landscapes this year.
Commercial Landscape Trend #1
The Healing Power of Gardens 
Nature is restorative. And this uplifting feeling that comes from being outside transcends age and culture; everyone feels it. In fact, one research study reported that 95% of respondents said their mood improved after spending time outside. Ever feel stressed or anxious after a taxing day? Studies show people can turn tension and depression into calmness and balance by just going outdoors to experience fresh air and green spaces.
Why is nature so restorative? “We have a kind of biologically prepared disposition to respond favorably to nature because we evolved in nature,” explains Roger Ulrich, a leading researcher in healing gardens. “Nature was good to us, and we tend to respond positively to environments that were favorable to us.”
This is why healing gardens continue to crop up in the Chicagoland and the Midwest metropolitan area, as well as nationally. Hospitals, especially, are recognizing the healing power of nature. There is growing evidence that plants lower blood pressure and reduce feelings of fear, according to Project EverGreen. Doctors have even reported people recover faster in a hospital when given a landscape view rather than seeing only the walls of adjoining buildings, the association explains.
Commercial Landscape Trend #2
Go Native
Native plants are becoming increasingly popular in commercial landscape design. Landscape designers and architects who know all of the perennials available to their region, in addition to their bloom times, can create a stunning landscape that has year-round color and seasonal interest. And, what’s more, native perennials provide the added benefits of requiring less maintenance and water—a sustainability initiative as well as a cost savings.
Commercial Landscape Trend #3
Be Water Wise
In light of recent droughts across the country, commercial property managers are trying to use the water they have more frugally. Watering responsibly is becoming a tactic no one wants to admit they don’t do.
In addition to choosing plants that use less water, this means adding rain sensors to irrigation systems so they aren’t watering when they shouldn’t be, as well as installing smarter controllers that adapt to weather conditions and drip irrigation that targets water at the roots specifically where plants need it. Managing irrigation controllers throughout the changing season can also save tons of water—and money—by adapting to the shifting weather conditions.
Commercial Landscape Trend #4
Work Outside
Today, fewer employees want to be stuck at their desks all day. As a result, in an attempt to set themselves apart, commercial office parks are installing outdoor areas for employees—complete with wireless Internet—so they can take work into the fresh air, changing the scenery and boosting productivity.
Capitalize on the Trends of 2020!
Want to take your Illinois commercial property to the next level with water-wise irrigation, native plant material, a therapeutic healing garden or the addition of an employee patio or outdoor work and relaxation area?
Call Sebert today to discuss how we can transform your commercial space into a healthy environment to be enjoyed by all!
(630) 497-1000 | www.sebert.com (Illinois) | www.sebertwi.com (Wisconsin)
