The demand for urban outdoor amenities in first-rate mixed-use and multi-family developments will not only continue; it will also be expected. With a well-crafted landscape architectural design, your property is going to look phenomenal; a few high-end urban landscape and site amenities, however, will take it to the next level. How can architects know which ideas will work the best?
With the variety of products and features available in today’s marketplace, the sky is literally the limit for design possibilities in terms of urban outdoor amenities that will improve the value of mixed-use buildings by creating an area tenants, employees, and guests alike can enjoy and love.
In this sense, architects should consider adding appealing outdoor amenities to their design projects. Here are a few ideas:
BEGIN WITH THE ENTRY SEQUENCE
The entry sequence serves as the first impression for any property. One of the best ways to improve curb appeal is to create a focal point and ensure that all the paths and pedestrian and vehicular circulation in coordination with landscape planting areas and features make all visitors feel welcomed and important, whether they’re a first-time visitor or a long-term resident or tenant. The use of high-quality landscape materials and elements will guarantee that the property’s focal point is awe-inspiring and effective at guiding people to where you want them to go.
FIRE PITS AND FEATURES
Many different variations exist for fire pits. Consider a gas fire pit/element made of stone or corten steel set in the midst of cozy lounge seating. Numerous styles exist for these pits, so you can find one that perfectly complements the rest of your architectural design’s aesthetic. Allow users to control gas fire pits with a timer. This also ensures that it will not stay on all night when people head home or after hours.
SCULPTURAL WATER FEATURES
Ponds and fountains are eye-catching features but imagine if you paired those features with sculpture. This is a formula for any setting and climate as it creates seasonal interest whether the water is running or not. People can gather around and enjoy the soothing sound of falling water. One of the most important steps in reducing water wasted by these features is choosing ones with water recycling systems and that give you maximum visual effect with minimal water usage.
ROOFTOP AMENITIES
Rooftop amenities represent a great opportunity to add literal and perceived value to your architectural development projects. These spots need comfortable, attractive seating. They need shade, and they should be relaxing. Check out our blog series “The Sky Is the Limit for Rooftop Amenities” for state-of-the-art ideas for rooftop amenities.
ROOFTOP GARDENS
This is a great feature that never goes out of style. Here, irrigation and drainage are important factors to consider. Plant life cycles and maintenance should be taken into account as well. The rule of thumb is you can never have enough green on a rooftop environment.
FENCING AS A FINISHING TOUCH
A fence around a mixed-use building does more than just add an attractive flourish to the edges of outdoor spaces. It also adds some security. Wood, composite, or steel? Security, aesthetics, or both? A well-versed and innovative landscape architect can help you design a fence screen that flows well with the overall landscape and architectural design.