Tag Archive for: design

Using Unique Commercial Landscaping to Enhance Business Appeal

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What is it that makes certain examples of commercial landscaping distinctive and more eye-catching than others? Is it the bold reimagining of traditional gardens and park-like features? Perhaps it’s the artful blending of nature with the architectural elements of a business facade. Or could it be the way the placement, colors, and textures of the site surround draw buyers to an enticing entrance? See our take on using unique commercial landscaping to enhance your business appeal to clients and customers.

Focus on Function and Purpose First

Inspiration for original combinations of plantings, structural features, paving, seating, and water features can come from anywhere. Local surroundings, natural features, art installations, interior design trends, and landscape design awards are just a few inspiration sources. The creative mindset of landscapers is unlimited, though restricted by the practicalities of a client’s budget.

However, function and purpose are the drivers for any take on unique designs by professional landscaping firms.

For Example Herb Garden

Thus, an herb garden developed for a pharmaceutical client may focus on the historical background of using herbs as medicines. Inspiration may be drawn from old designs of monastery gardens, for instance.

In contrast, an herb garden developed for a senior care home could focus on plantings of fragrant herbs known to calm the senses, such as chamomile, lavender, and rosemary. The design would feature plenty of seating areas and wide flat paths for comfort and safety purposes.

Using Unique Commercial Landscaping to Enhance Business Appeal

Professional landscapers tend to work with a set of natural and artificial features. These include water features, lawns, plantings of flowers, shrubs, and trees. Structural design elements are incorporated, such as bridges, fences, and walls. Seating, walkways, and decorative sculptural elements encourage potential customers and curious passersby to visit, generating foot traffic for businesses.

Countless combinations of pleasing and exciting landscapes can be made with standard features alone. However, choices of shapes, colors, plant varieties, and hardscape materials that can complement business facades and location qualities can be hard to settle on. Even so, experienced designers know how to create unique designs that meet not only landscape values but other values.

Can Commercial Landscaping Address Cultural and Environmental Concerns?

Environmental, historical, and heritage overlays relevant to a business’s location, can be addressed in landscape design. For instance, planting pollination gardens can address environmental concerns about shrinking honeybee populations. These gardens are full of annual and perennial flowering plants that strongly attract bees and provide nectar for the hives.

Heritage values can be referenced via markers, explanatory plaques, memorial benches, and sculptures, telling of historical events and important people.

What Values Do You Want to Convey?

Of course, the type of image you want to convey depends upon your target customer groups. But with environmental concerns at the forefront of many consumers, using commercial landscape features to show your green credentials can be worthwhile. Using hardy native plants or water-wise ornamentals, and putting water-recycling systems behind water features, may be valuable for your business in more ways than one.

Seek Inspiration for Unique Designs from Award Winners

The unique designs of contemporary landscaping design award winners provide a feast of new ideas for the landscaping industry. The American Society of Landscape Architects gives an annual award for several landscaping categories, including general, residential, and urban.

Many award winners have examined issues like climate resilience, land preservation, flood recovery, and community needs. Commercial landscaping features are turned to grappling with urban problems. For instance, they have built a forest of trees over an underground car park, providing much-needed outdoor space while retaining access to motor vehicles.

For Example Singapore Garden by the Bay

International landscaping sites can provide a wholly different perspective. Singapore Garden by the Bay has a Supertree Grove where 18 towering structures that look like alien trees dominate the skyline. Each tree structure is actually a vertical garden that makes a spectacular light show at night and is powered by solar panels.

Create or Reinvent Your Business Landscaping with State of the Art

If you’re setting up your new business or think it’s time to revamp the outdoor space, look for assistance from seasoned commercial landscapers. Servicing Northern Virginia and its surrounds, State of the Art Landscape will plan and design-build your new landscape with you, tailoring it to increase your business appeal to passersby.

With our wealth of experience in design and installation, we will create a one-of-a-kind space sure to impress everyone who visits. We can handle everything from small retail frontages to large business exteriors. So contact us for a free on-site appointment, and let’s get your project going.

7 Tips for Eco-Friendly Commercial Landscape Design

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Sustainable landscapes are finally having their moment to shine. Everywhere we turn, there are more companies and owners wanting to make their properties environmentally friendly.

And, not only do these upgrades have a significant impact on the landscape around them but it actually saves the owner’s money, requires less maintenance, and protects the area from ruin.

So, if you’re thinking of making some green upgrades consider giving our tips below a try.

1. Use Pollinators

Create a robust ecosystem around your landscape by using pollinators in the garden and flower beds. That’s because insects such as moths, bees, and butterflies rely on these types of plants as a food source. So, it’s important these animals have access to them to prevent species decline. Additionally, pollinators are a great way to support crops and produce growth as a tonne of flowering plants rely on them to produce seeds. 

2. Choose Native Plants

If there are trees or plants on your property, it’s best to choose ones that are native to the area. That’s because, native plants support local wildlife, and are acclimated to the weather, climate, and rainfall patterns. Meaning, that they will require less maintenance as they won’t need as much fertilizer, pesticides, or water to stay alive. In turn, making a smaller eco-footprint.

3. Consider Synthetics

There are many different types of hardscapes and synthetic materials available instead of plants, trees, and grass. Installing something like artificial grass over an area actually requires less maintenance, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and water. Making its impact on the surrounding environment much less harmful.

4. Mulch

Another idea to make a landscape more environmentally friendly is to use mulch. Any type of organic mulch such as wood chips, leaves, pine needles, and bark helps to keep the environment intact by regulating soil temperature. In turn, working to keep plants alive and healthy for much longer. It does this by breaking down over time and releasing nutrients back into the soil.

This makes it the perfect material to place at the root areas of the trees and plants as they will keep them healthy.

5. Harvest Rainwater

One of the simplest ways to give back to your landscape is to harvest rainwater. When rainwater is used on things like plants, flowers, and vegetable gardens, it will greatly reduce the amount of water used to maintain the property.

So, consider capturing rainwater from places like roofs and gutters. Both of which also prevent pollution from entering the water supply. To do this, consider the use of cisterns, rain chains, or barrels. Even some decorative items like watering cans can be used to capture it.

6. Green Roofs

There’s no reason to stop at the landscape when it comes to upgrading a property’s green space. For owners that really want an eco-friendly upgrade, consider installing a green roof. A green roof is a great option for owners who might be short on space but want to maximize what they have. That’s because an eco-friendly roof reduces the energy use of a property by adding insulation. This insulation keeps cool and warm air inside. In turn, requiring less energy throughout the year to maintain.

Additionally, a green roof minimizes water runoff. Water runoff can be harmful to the surrounding environment seeing as it could contain harmful pesticides and herbicides. But, with the help of a green roof, this risk is minimized.                                                                                                             

7. Use Natural Products

Making a space ‘green’ doesn’t stop at what is planted and installed. It extends to the maintenance and products that are used for it throughout the year. That’s why it’s important to only use natural pest control and herbicide options.

Otherwise, products that are full of chemicals can be detrimental to both the environment, local wildlife, and a person’s health. Certain products have been known to cause adverse reactions, especially to things like insects and bees. So be sure to use natural sprays, or techniques (such as hand-removal of weeds) to ensure your space remains eco-friendly.

Eco-Friendly Commercial Landscape Design

At State of the Art Landscaping, we know how important it is to take care of your outdoor space. That’s why we believe in using eco-friendly methods and designs. We can assess, customize, and build you the outdoor green space you and the environment deserve.

So, if you’re interested in seeing how your property can be upgraded with eco-friendly designs consider getting in touch with a member of our team today by contacting us today.

Take Your Property Look to a Whole New Level With the Right Turf Solution

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The right turf solution can take an outdoor space to a whole new level. Not only can it elevate a space’s design, but it can improve its functionality all while providing a lower-maintenance alternative to grass.

But, with so many turf options to pick from, how do you know which solution is right for you? That’s where we come in. As outdoor experts, State of the Art knows the ins and outs of turf options.

That’s why we’ve outlined the best solutions below and how they can enhance your property.

1. Gravel

For a fluid and low-maintenance option, gravel is your best bet. Gravel provides owners with a quick and simple tuft solution that’s super easy to install.

Gravel also seamlessly meshes with a bunch of design styles; fitting in easily with both traditional and contemporary looks. However, we recommend it’s best to keep it to small and enclosed areas. That is because large open spaces filled with gravel tend to be boring and impractical.

So, for best results, we recommend using it in smaller garden areas (such as front yards), or areas where mowing can be difficult. We also suggest adding plenty of plants and flowers to the space so there will be some color and interest.

2. Bark

If there are areas of your yard that struggle to get sunlight and end up dry and dying, consider adding bark. That’s because bark won’t die even in the darkest corners of your yard (such as under trees, or in between structures). So, for a natural-looking option, we suggest choosing a natural stripped pine bark and adding as much greenery as possible.

To install, simply spread eight to ten centimeters over the soil. But, keep in mind that bark does require regular maintenance as it will likely need a topping up every year.

3. Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is a favorite when it comes to a turf solution. That’s because this option provides a natural look without all the hassle that comes along with maintaining real grass.

Just remember that all varieties of artificial grass aren’t made the same. So, be sure to shop around for color and style that works for your space as the shades can vary.

It might also be a good idea to consider what the space will be used for and how much direct contact you might have with it as many find it less comfortable underfoot.

If you do decide to proceed with the installation, it’s important to note that the larger the space the more likely you will need to hire professionals to help. That’s because bigger spaces require the ground to be leveled and paved.

4. Smart Paving

Another turf solution that owners may want to consider when redoing their space is smart paving. Materials like stone, brick, or even concrete make a great alternative when it comes to traditional grass. That’s because these alternatives can make a great base for a courtyard. In turn, drastically changing the space to be more functional by being able to put down more seating areas, gathering spaces and dinner tables.

Given how many paving options there are, owners can match the building material to their unique sense of style; choosing a design that works for them. For traditional patios we suggest opting for more natural textures like sandstone or limestone. Whereas more modern properties can experiment with different styles by using things such as concrete and quartz.

Regardless of what you end up choosing, we always suggest avoiding the use of multiple materials in a single space. Otherwise, it can end up looking busy and cluttered.

5. Decking

The final tuft solution to consider is decking. Not only is decking a great way to define a space and create a more livable area but it is actually a perfect solution for sloping or awkwardly shaped lawns. That’s because it can help to level out an area without all the hassle and money it takes to do it to the ground.

Instead, installing a deck is a cost-effective and quick way to create a usable surface that’s perfect for dining, lounging, or gathering. Plus, there are plenty of decking materials that owners can choose from ranging from hardwoods to no-maintenance composite lookalikes.

Ultimately, whatever turf option you decide to opt for, it’s guaranteed to transform your space. If you’re an owner and are considering upgrading your space, speak with a member of our team today by calling 703-421-3666 or emailing admin@stateoftheartlandscape.com.

Exotic Landscape Designs You Thought Were Only in the Magazines

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Tropical plants, serene settings, and tropical designs; sound like a vacation? Well, it doesn’t have to be. That’s because there are plenty of things you can do to your own garden to make it feel like an exotic escape year-round.

At State of Art Landscaping, we understand how important it is to have a unique outdoor space. That’s why we’re here with our most impactful design tips that will make your garden feel like a beachside resort.

Tropical Plants

The most obvious way to transform any outdoor area from ‘basic’ to ‘exotic’ is to use tropical plants. Of course, these plants will need to be able to survive in the climate and soil type you live in so just be sure to double-check that the ones you are interested in will be able to thrive.

Some examples of plants to add are Tropical Hibiscus, Majesty Palm’s, black-eyed Susan Vine, or Red Dipladenia. Alternatively, try potting tropical-looking plants (especially palms) which can add quite an ‘exotic’ statement. But, just be sure to bring them back inside before the first frost as they are likely not to survive it.

Use Plenty of Linens

Another trick to making an area appear more ‘exotic’ is to use plenty of linens in the space. For example, it can be something as simple as hanging curtains from a pergola to give it a beachy cabana feel.

Also, consider placing a rug under a table, or on the patio, to make the space appear more welcoming. Depending on the look you want to achieve for the space, consider adding a pop of color with a bright yellow, blue, or orange one. Or, opt for a more calming effect by choosing something softer like gray or cream.

Regardless of what you decide, all of these linen features will need to be UV-resistant and specifically made for the outdoors to avoid getting stained or damaged.

Just be sure to have plenty of pillows and cushions on all the furniture so that sitting outside is comfortable.

Use Natural Materials

Whether you’re looking to add a table, pergola, waterfall, or other backyard addition you should use natural materials to achieve an exotic look. That’s because materials such as wood and stone will give off a more natural and earthier feel as opposed to man-made ones which tend to come off as ‘modern’.

Consider Adding a Bar

Every exotic vacation resort has a bar nearby, and your backyard escape should be no different. For those with more space, consider adding an outdoor entertainment area, complete with a prep kitchen. This will be great for entertaining guests without having to run back and forth from the house.

For those with smaller spaces, you can still achieve this by adding a bar cart or cabinet and stocking it with all of the essentials.

Water Features

Another idea that really brings out a tropical feel is running water. Hearing the sound of a fountain or water nearby is a great way to make the space feel secluded and serene. To achieve this, consider adding a small waterfall. This can be done as an addition to an existing pool, as a wall feature, or simply as a stand-alone device.

Whatever you decide, there are water features available in all styles, sizes, and price points. So you are guaranteed to find something that will fit your design dreams.

Add Impactful Lighting

Owners shouldn’t forget about lighting when it comes to creating the ideal exotic outdoor space. Lighting is important in creating a cozy and serene vibe that takes owners well into the night.

To make it tropical, consider using something unique like lanterns and string lights that bring a warm glow to a gathering area. Another idea is to add pot lights or lanterns to walkways to make getting around the space accessible. Finally, accent lights should be used to show off features like waterfalls or plant beds.

However, you will want to avoid any overly bright lights or sleek features as they can come off as ‘modern’.

Ultimately, regardless of what you decide to put in the space, creating an exotic escape is possible. If you’re unsure how your space will look, get in touch with one of us at State of the Art Landscaping. We work with owners to truly understand their needs and can come up with a plan to achieve the backyard of your dream.

See how we can help by calling 703-421-3666 or emailing admin@stateoftheartlandscape.com.

These 8 Plants Are Perfect for Commercial Properties

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Every owner wants their building to look its best. But maintaining a commercial property takes a ton of work. From maintenance to upgrades, design, and function; having a beautiful outdoor space can be tough to achieve.

That’s why owners need low-maintenance plants. Low-maintenance plants require minimal work, look beautiful, and are the trick to keeping a property looking great year-round.

1. Barberry

Commercial properties are ideal settings for the Barberry shrub to thrive. That’s because this shrub is extremely low maintenance, while still offering owners a bright pop of yellow as the seasons change. It is also a resilient shrub and can withstand a number of soil types, so there’s no need to fret that it won’t work on yours. All the shrub requires is some occasional pruning to ensure there are no dead leaves or branches that are ruining its shape.

2. Fescue

For those in warm climates, consider planting Fescue around the property. Fescue is a hardy, drought-resistant plant. It is commonly used as a replacement for traditional grass given its long green stems and lush look. Plus, this durable plant looks great when added to flower beds as it adds depth that frames it with its long green stems.

3. Ajuga

For owners that want to add a pop of color to their gardens without the hassle of flowers, look no further than the Ajuga. This flowering plant is the perfect addition because of its dense, lush green leaves that act as a base for its flowering buds. These long stem flowers come in a range of colors (from purple to burgundy and green) that require minimal care. But just be careful of where you place it in the garden as it is a creeping plant. This means it will spread if it’s not controlled. So, just be sure to check on it and trim it every so often to ensure its shape does not get out of hand.

4. Blue Mist Spirea

Also known as ‘Bluebeard’, Blue Mist Spirea is another resilient plant that’s perfect for dryer climates. This pollinator plant is heat and drought hesitant, doing well in both full sun and partial shade. Plus, it has blue flowers that bloom in the summer which are guaranteed to brighten any landscape. Owners will just need to keep on top of seasonal pruning in order to keep the plant strong and growing.

5. Coreopsis

For a long-lasting pop of color, the bright Coreopsis is a great choice. That’s because its vibrant flowers bloom from early summer to early fall. They also come in a variety of shades ranging from yellow to orange, pink, purple, and red. This perennial plant is another easy grower as it tolerates almost any soil condition and works both inside and out.

6. Mondo Grass

Another low-maintenance plant you may want to add to your commercial property is Mondo Grass. Black Mondo Grass thrives in a variety of landscapes regardless of how much light it gets. So, owners can plant it on shady sides of the property without needing to worry. They are also resistant to most types of wildlife such as rabbits and deer which means owners don’t need to monitor them for pests. The only downside to this plant is that it requires adequate moisture so consider adding it to an area with an irrigation system to limit the amount of time spent watering.

7. Fountain Grass

For a tall, dense look add fountain grass to a property. This clumping grass thrives in full sun. And better yet, they require little care once placed there. They also hardly need water once installed so long as the area they are planted in gets some rainfall. The only maintenance it requires is in early spring or late winter when it should be cut back and trimmed. Trimming helps stimulate growth and encourages new stems to take form.

8. Maiden Grass

Maiden Grass, also known as Chinese Silver Grass, is one of the hardiest plants commercial owners can use on their property. Not only is this plant resistant to drought, but its disease and pest-resistant (deer, rabbits, and other lawn pests).

The only thing owners should be concerned about is if it is allowed to be planted in their state. In some States, Maiden Grass had been deemed an invasive species. But, despite this, ornamental varieties have become popular and are now being bred to be sterile so they won’t spread.

Finding the Right Plants for Your Commercial Property

Ultimately, we know first-hand how difficult it is to maintain a commercial property. That’s exactly why we suggest speaking with a member of our team for advice on how to make it easier for you.

If you’d be interested in seeing how State of the Art Landscape could help, get in touch at 703-421-3666 or email admin@stateoftheartlandscape.com.

The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Designed Pergolas & Pavilions

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Whether it’s to host events, get some quiet, or BBQ a pergola is a great addition to any space. These features offer owners an extension of livable space that can be fully customized to suit unique needs and style preferences. 

But, there are some key things to consider before installing. That’s exactly why we’ve come up with the ultimate guide to designing one below.

The Position

 It might seem obvious, but choosing a position for a pergola or pavilion is critical to its function. This is especially true if it will be added to a feature already in the yard (like a pool, dining area, outdoor kitchen).

Also, consider things such as privacy, and what the position means for it. For example, if you are looking for a space to get away, consider moving it further from the home.

Otherwise, installing the feature without thinking of its position can ruin the entire function of the backyard.

Building Materials

 There are a number of building materials that pergolas and pavilions can be built with. From something modern and sleek like aluminum to timeless and natural like timber; the material can have a serious impact on its appearance and longevity.

When picking a material, we always suggest figuring out the budget, intent of use, and weather concerns. All of these factors will likely have an impact on what material is chosen. For example, places with harsh winters and strong winds will likely need a more durable material to withstand the elements.

Lighting

 A feature of pergolas and pavilions that is often overlooked is the lighting. But, lighting can make a space seem more inviting, safer, and usable. So, consider adding features like the ground or overhead lights. These simple upgrades will really amplify the space and make it usable regardless of the time of day.

Roof Options

It’s not only the building material that you’ll need to think of when designing a pergola or pavilion but the roof of it as well. The roof is a key part of its design that cannot be overlooked. After all, roofs for these features come in all types of designs and styles.

For example, owners can pick a simple flat roof for a timeless aesthetic. Or, they can opt for a pitched roof with a more decorative and custom-edge to it. If neither of these seems like a good option, owners can even choose a retractable or fully open roof. That way, sunshine, and natural light can be enjoyed all year round.

Regardless, it’s best for owners to explore the many options that are available to them when it comes to the roof. Otherwise, agreeing to a design before scoping your options can leave you with serious buyers’ remorse.

Layout

One of the first things to do before selecting a pergola or pavilion is to think of what you want to use it for. For example, it might be intended as a dining area and used to host guests. Or, you might want to use it as a place to get some quiet and privacy.

Regardless of what you want it for, the intended use will likely alter the size and layout of the design. For hosting parties and dinners, it will need to be big enough to fit tables and chairs. Plus, you may even want to take it a step further by adding a BBQ or kitchen element to it. Whereas a pergola meant for privacy will likely be smaller in size with enclosed walls and a roof that is big enough to fit a single lounge chair and table.

Permits for Pergolas and Pavillions

The final thing owners should think of before installing anything on their property is if it is permitted. This means owners should be checking with their local building authorities to ensure that what they intend to build on their property meets the code. Otherwise, it could be in violation of local bylaws. This is especially true for owners who are installing a structure with electricity as these typically require a special permit. So, be sure to contact your local board to confirm if the pergola you want is allowed.

But, if you don’t want to go through the trouble of contacting the board on your own, consider partnering with a professional like us at State of the Art Landscaping. We can assess, customize, and build you the pergola or pavilion of your dreams.

If you’re interested in seeing how your property can benefit from one of our designs, consider getting in touch by contacting us today.

Bring Your Past Time to Your Own Backyard: 5 Sports Court Designs You Didn’t Know You Needed

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With so much time spent at home, it’s no surprise we’ve seen a rise in the number of people wanting to update their backyards. Of these updates, one of the most common is for sports.

Whether the hobby is tennis, basketball, hockey, or something else; people are getting creative with their spaces. And, for good reason. Sport court designs can be completely customized to a space. Making it accessible for anyone wanting to add a bit of fun to their home. 

Given how popular sport court designs are becoming, we’ve outlined the five designs you didn’t know you needed until today.

5 Sports Court Designs You Didn’t Know You Needed

1. Concrete Courts

As one of the more ‘traditional’ designs, the concrete court is one of the more common additions we see at a home. Of course, this design uses concrete as the main building material and base; making it a perfect choice for basketball and tennis enthusiasts.

The process of installation for this type of court is actually pretty straightforward. All that homeowners should be aware of is to make sure that the court is fully dry before painting. For the paint job, you can always go with the game lines as a ‘court.’ However, you should also consider personalizing the paint-job to reflect a favorite team or design.

You will want to have the area assessed by a professional prior to installation, though. This person will be able to walk through the property and ensure that the court will be level and have sufficient drainage to not cause issues in the future.

2. Multi Use Courts

Another trend we’ve been seeing a lot of homeowners asking for is a multi-use sports court. A multi-use court is a great way for owners to get the whole family involved and participate in outdoor activities together. What’s meant by this concept is simply that the court is designed in a way that multiple activities can be used at once.

This can be done simply by painting over a concrete area. For example, to create things like a checkerboard, shuffleboard, and basketball court in one. Additionally, other things could be installed to maximize the space such as a net and tetherball.

Since this design allows owners to customize their court, any size yard will do. But, like any court, before choosing a multi-use one, consider speaking with a professional. That’s because someone like us can have a look at your space and suggest what would work best in terms of size and design. From there, you can begin brainstorming what games you’d like (bowling, basketball, chess, etc.) to turn it into a reality.

3. Rinks

If you’re in a cold climate – chances are you’re a fan of playing hockey. But even if you’re not, an outdoor rink is bound to be fun for the whole family. Although the installation process is quite easy, it can only be installed in homes during colder months.

Many owners also have the misconception that rinks need to be large. However, it can totally be customized to the space. So, whether it’s big or small, consider enhancing your backyard with a multi-purpose rink that can get everyone outside and enjoy the space.

4. Half Courts

 A half-court is exactly that – half of a ‘traditional’ sports court. This is a great idea for owners who are short on space but still want the added benefit of an at-home court. Of course, this design can be further customized to fit a space and activity. For example, it can be designed for basketball, tetherball, bowling, or more. As well, the court can be placed in an area that best suits your home in order to maximize the remaining space in your yard.

5. Alternative Base Options

If concrete or asphalt isn’t your thing, consider an alternative base surface option. This is a great option for those who can’t have a permanent base for a sports court. Instead, this gives owners the option to disassemble and remove the court when it’s not in use or if the weather changes.

These alternative materials usually come as interlocking tiles that are easy to install and provide shock absorption (to prevent injury). It is important to keep in mind that this type of court can be higher in cost for materials. However, it is lower in installation fees.    

Call A Design & Build Landscaper in Northern Virginia To Design Your Sport Court

At State of the Art, we specialize in outdoor living. This means we know how to maximize your outdoor space. So, if you’re thinking of installing an outdoor sports court, get in touch with us. We can walk you through the process, introduce you to new designs, help with things like land leveling, drainage, pricing, and more.  

 

If you’d be interested in seeing how these trends could be applied to your backyard, get in touch at 703-421-3666 or email admin@stateoftheartlandscape.com.

5 Deck & Patio Design Trends to Inspire Your Project in 2022

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Plan to spend more time outside than ever before. That’s because decks and patios are becoming extensions of the home in ways that we’ve never seen. From cooking to exercising, entertaining, relaxing, and more; there’s plenty to get excited about when it comes to deck and patio design. Given how excited we are to see these deck and patio design trends take over in 2022, we’ve outlined the top five deck and patio designs that are guaranteed to inspire your next project.

2022 Deck and Patio Design Trends

1. Outdoor Kitchens

Building on last year’s momentum, cooking outside has become an increasingly popular trend. And this extends to more than just your everyday BBQ. There are now multiple types of outdoor kitchens available.

For example, a satellite kitchen can enhance a smaller deck by adding things like a grill or pizza oven. These features can even be placed close to the outside door for convenience.

Another option is to include an independent kitchen. We’ve been seeing a lot of owners adding things like a prep space, sink, refrigerator, and storage.

Regardless of what you decide on, keep in mind that these added elements should first be discussed with a professional, like us, who can review your budget, space, and climate to determine what would be right for you.

2. Herb and Vegetable Gardens

We’ve also been seeing an uptick in people wanting to grow their own food. This comes as no surprise given how much time we’ve spent at home the past few years!

As such, many have turned towards gardening and ‘micro gardening.’ This has meant we’ve been seeing tons of flower beds, vertical gardens, and potters being added to spaces.

This trend is also great for people who might not have a tonne of deck or patio space as it can be customized. For example, you can pick from plenty of sizes, styles, and looks. All of which will make it easy to add to a space.

3. Privacy

Given that more people are making use of their deck and patio spaces, more are asking for privacy while out there. This means we’ve been seeing an increase in the demand for additional structures like pergolas, fences, and tall landscaping to create seclusion.

Depending on the space, owners may want to consider adding outdoor drapery to an overhead panel, an outdoor screen, tall planters, or even an umbrella that can give the feel of privacy. Doing this will not only add some style but some much-needed functionality to a space.

4. Outdoor Technology

With so much of our lives heading online, it should come as no surprise that we’ve seen a boom in outdoor technology. Whether you’re watching a movie outside or want to work from home that day; we’ve been seeing an increase of people wanting to optimize their space.

Some of the top requests we’ve been seeing are incorporating speakers, WIFI, and televisions into the area. There is also the option to change out older light bulbs to newer LED ones which can be automated, and connected to the remote control. This allows you to turn them on or off and even change their color.

5. Longer-lasting Items

We’ve also been seeing a rise in people looking for products that extend the outdoor living season. What this means is that things like fire-pits, heat lamps, misting systems, and fans have all been hot products.

These items are trending seeing as people want to extend the amount of time they can use their outdoor space. These are especially great additions to a patio or decks in areas that have colder winters as you’ll be able to use the space for much longer.

Another, more permanent, option would be to build things like a pergola with a covered roof. Or consider adding things like mounted heaters or a fireplace.

You should also consider furniture that’s made out of long-lasting materials like metal, aluminum, or concrete. These items are durable and can withstand even the harshest of elements. Making them great year-round choices for patios and decks.

Partner With a Northern Virginia Design & Build Landscaping Expert For Your Deck or Patio

At State of the Art, we specialize in outdoor living. This means we know how to transform your deck and patio spaces. We can turn underwhelming areas into modern, usable spaces that all will want to enjoy year-round.

If you’d be interested in seeing how these deck and patio design trends could be applied to your space, get in touch at 703-421-3666 or email admin@stateoftheartlandscape.com.

5 Commercial Landscaping Trends to Inspire Your Company Design

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Design is so much more than just the interior of a property. With new products, styles, and technologies, having a unique exterior space is becoming a must-have.

A new and exciting design can not only make the property more appealing, but it can make use of vacant space, raise the property’s curb appeal and value, all while maintaining a welcoming environment.

Because we understand how important the outdoor aesthetic is, we’ve compiled the top five commercial landscaping trends that we’ve been loving!

1. Sustainability

The industry has recently seen a huge push towards sustainable landscape initiatives (and for good reason!). Sustainability in landscaping is all about reducing waste, maintaining the environment, and lowering a commercial building’s economic footprint.

For example, using plants that are native to the region helps promote sustainability because they will require less water to maintain. For this reason, many are opting for region-specific plants that will help conserve water.

But investing in sustainable initiatives also helps owners. That’s because it can help save money on maintenance costs. For example, using native plants like wildflowers will lower maintenance costs as they don’t require as much mowing.

 Another example of sustainable landscaping is rooftop gardens. This is another sustainable addition as it adds green space to an unused area. Plus, it can save commercial owners’ money as they often act as a coolant (which will reduce air condition costs). 

2. Gathering Places

We’ve also seen a huge rise in people wanting to add livable outdoor spaces throughout their property. Things like an eating or workout area can really enhance a space.

For owners to make use of this trend, you will need to think of who will be using the space (tenants, employees, community members, etc.). Depending on their needs you may want to consider adding things like comfortable seating, fountains, sculptures, tables, and appealing plants to make it an attractive place to go.

Doing this will not only make the property more appealing to those currently using it but it can help attract a higher-quality tenant who is willing to pay more.

3. Low Maintenance Designs

Another trend we’ve seen a huge rise in this year is low-maintenance designs. Many owners are opting for these as they offer a simple, yet inviting landscape that doesn’t require a lot of help.

These minimalistic designs are especially helpful in urban areas where outdoor space might be limited. In this instance, opting for a simplistic design can help optimize the area, all while making it appear cleaner and more inviting.

This type of design is also ideal for areas where seasons change, and the environment for plants is harder to maintain. Owners can opt for plants that require low maintenance for harsher climates, such as perennials that wouldn’t need replanting. Or, choosing to use stone and mulch in grassy areas can maintain curb appeal all while minimizing maintenance.

4. Craftsmanship

We’ve also been noticing a commercial landscaping trend that moves away from mass-produced products and turns towards artesian-style goods. Now, more people are demanding unique designs that stand out. Things like a well-crafted pergola, bench, or table that have been specially designed and stand out.  

Although some may be deterred by the higher-price point to have a custom-built item, investing in craftsmanship means you’ll end up with pieces that will stand the test of time.

5. Smart Technology

Just like a number of other industries, landscaping has seen some pretty innovative designs come out over the past few years. These enhanced technologies are now able to integrate things like smart lights, sensors, and monitors woven into your landscaping.

These features are perfect for commercial businesses which may want the added security that these features provide. That’s because the technologies can all be uploaded and remotely controlled. This means owners will have the ability to control things like lights remotely. And be notified if any sensors or alarms go off immediately.

Ultimately, with so many design options available, we understand how daunting it can be to pick just one. That’s why we’d suggest speaking with a member of our team. With more than sixty years of combined experience, State of the Art Landscape is able to provide superior landscape services and advice that would best suit your property.

If you’d be interested in seeing how these commercial landscaping trends could be applied to your business, consider getting in touch at 703-421-3666 or contact us here.