For commercial properties, everything is about the appeal when it comes to first impressions. Well-designed outdoor areas can enhance the customer experience and add value to your property. If you are running a restaurant, office, retail space, or anything else, think of it from the angle of the customer.

You’re not entering a restaurant that looks unappealing from the outside, also if you are looking for a lawyer, you will not trust someone with your legal issues whose porch in front of the office looks like no one hasn’t been there for years.

Well, the truth to be told, whatever business you are running, the same way your customers are going to feel when they see your outdoor space so it would be wise to give your best shot in trying to make it as appealing as possible.

If you’re thinking about how you can transform outdoor space for your firm, here are five innovative ideas.

1. Install Screened-In Porches

This is a great addition to commercial properties and it is also a good solution if you don’t have too much space inside the property for your clients to relax and wait for you if necessary. Screened-in porches provide a protected space for clients and employees to enjoy fresh air without worrying about weather or pests.

If you are interested in this idea, make sure to find a reputable porch builder to ensure you receive a seamless installation that is tailored specifically to your property needs.

When looking for a proper contractor to do the job, consider that the prices may vary depending on where you live, and the quality of work might be different as well if there are too many (or too few) competitors. If you look for a good-quality screened in porch builder in urban areas like Alexandria or Burke in Virginia, you’ll find there are plenty of businesses to choose from.

Also, you’ll find that the prices there (especially in northern Virginia) are quite a bit higher compared to neighboring states. For instance, the total cost for a 12×12 (144 sq ft) porch will be anywhere from 4,700-13,000 USD. In Maryland, the prices will be lower, but due to the proximity to the northern part of Virginia, not by much; a 12×12 porch will set you back by approximately 4,300-12,200 USD.

If you go further south, to the state of North Carolina, you’ll find even lower prices (3,600-10,800 USD for a 12×12 porch). So be sure to check for builders with a good reputation, and compare a few to get the best price possible.

There are so many benefits of these kinds of structures, but they are ideal for dining areas, meeting spaces, and relaxing lounges, which are all very useful additions to anyone’s workspace.

2. Incorporate Green Landscaping Features

There are simple, yet very creative and effective ideas for incorporating green landscaping features into your outdoor space. If you add green elements that will not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality and create a calming vibe. Here are a few ideas for green landscaping features:

1. Vertical Gardens: U can use a wall-mounted planter to create lush greenery while saving space. This is the perfect idea for smaller outdoor spaces.
2. Planters: If, on the other hand, you don’t have a bigger outdoor space, you can add large planters with a mix of seasonal flowers to add vibrant color and texture.
3. Shaded Seating Areas: For natural shadow, you can use strategically placed trees to encourage relaxation.

 3. Create Flexible Seating Areas

When it comes to seating areas, they are not just for comfort or beautiful design, they should also be practical and versatile for commercial properties. If you want furniture that can be both casual for relaxation and formal for meetings, you should use modular furniture and multi-functional designs.

Also, think about the main feature every outdoor furniture should have – resistance to weather damage so choose seating with weather-resistant materials.

4. Add Weather-Resistant Outdoor Structures

As mentioned, weather-resistant elements are important for outdoor structures and the most important ones are permanent structures such as pergolas, gazebos, and retractable awnings because they provide shade and shelter. If you add one of these structures to your outdoor space, you can use it year-round.

Their main purpose is to create protection for various weather conditions, but they also add a stylish architectural element to the property.

5. Enhance Lighting for Safety and Atmosphere

Lighting is an important part of outdoor space transformation. If you place lights properly and creatively you will achieve a welcoming ambiance, improve security, but also highlight key features of the property. There are many options from LED strings to pathway lighting and it can be customized to fit the design theme you chose for your outdoor area.

Investing in energy-efficient lighting solutions is good for commercial properties because it reduces long-term costs.

Ideas for Lighting Features:

1. LED String Lights: This is not only energy-efficient but also a low-cost solution. You can hang string lights across seating areas or walkways and have an inviting atmosphere that didn’t cost you a fortune and it was not a time-consuming project.
2. Pathway Lighting: Install solar or low-voltage lights along pathways. This will guide guests through the space and improve safety.
3. Spotlights: You can highlight architectural features or landscaping by using adjustable spotlights.
4. Motion-Sensor Lights: Enhance security and energy savings by installing motion-activated lights in less-used areas.
5. Color-Changing Lights: This is a more dynamic option for your outdoor space. Add color-changing LED lights and you can customize them for different occasions.

Conclusion

Transforming outdoor spaces is more than achieving nice aesthetics, it is a project that is going to affect the overall functionality and appeal of your property. Well-polished and designed outdoor space is going to attract more customers, but also boost employee morale.

Make sure to find professional builders to ensure that the design of your outdoor space is tailored to your needs. You can also incorporate some creative solutions that fit your outdoor space to create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.