Steel buildings are well-known for their durability, efficiency, and functionality in industrial and commercial settings. However, their utilitarian appearance can often result in a stark and uninspiring environment – hence the value of steel building landscaping!
In this blog post, we will take a look at what steel building landscaping is, why it’s important for commercial and industrial buildings and how Hamilton Steel can help.
What is steel building landscaping?
Steel building landscaping refers to the design and layout of outdoor spaces surrounding steel structures such as warehouses, factories or commercial building
The aim of landscaping is to create a cohesive environment that complements the structure and improves its integration with its surroundings. This may include planting trees, shrubs or other greenery, designing and building parking zones and access roads, or even installing water management systems and lighting fixtures.
By landscaping, developers help to create a visually appealing and functional environment that complements steel’s modern, industrial aesthetic while also meeting practical needs like drainage and accessibility.
Why landscaping matters for industrial and commercial properties
While often overlooked, steel building landscaping plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall value and appeal of industrial and commercial properties. Here are some key reasons why it matters:
First impressions matter
Industrial and commercial buildings can often have a cold, unwelcoming appearance. By tidying up the surrounding area and adding features to make it look more colourful and inviting, landscaping can make these buildings more welcoming to clients, customers, and employees.
A visually appealing landscape can also reflect a successful image for a business. Tidy, well-designed landscaping reflects professionalism and care to visitors. It also conveys a business is attentive to all aspects of its operations, extending beyond the building’s interior to its surroundings.
Environmental benefits
Steel building landscaping provides several environmental benefits that help to promote sustainability and reduce the ecological impact of industrial and commercial properties.
By incorporating native plants, trees, and shrubs, soft landscaping helps improve air quality around the building, as these plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Green spaces also act as natural filters for pollutants, helping to remove both particles and gases from the air.
Additionally, strategically placed trees can reduce the heat island effect, which is commonly associated with large steel buildings, by providing shade and cooling the air. Planting trees can also reduce air conditioning needs in these buildings by up to 50%, resulting in significant energy savings and a reduced environmental impact.
Property value
Landscaping signals that the property is well-maintained, which can raise its perceived value. Additionally, features like trees, shrubs, and water management systems can reduce operational costs by improving energy efficiency and protecting these buildings against erosion or flooding.
This work also distinguishes the property from others. A steel building surrounded by colourful, vibrant plants, and elegant hardscaping is more likely to draw attention than one with little landscaping.
Safety and security
Installing lighting along the walkways, parking zones, and entrances surrounding industrial and commercial buildings helps to improve visibility at night, lowering the risk of accidents and discouraging criminal activity. Another deterrent commonly used around these buildings is motion-activated lights that can illuminate key areas, making it more difficult for criminals to approach the building undetected.
In terms of security, steel-made or natural barriers can be incorporated. For example, steel gates, boundary fencing or even dense shrubs and trees can serve as physical barriers that prevent unauthorised access to sensitive areas of the property, lowering the likelihood of trespassing.
How Hamilton Steel can help
At Hamilton Steel, we don’t just supply and install steel buildings, we provide landscaping services to ensure that your steel structure is fully accessible and secure, with a strong aesthetic.
We offer both hard and soft landscaping solutions, including the design and installation of parking zones, access roads, drainage systems and walkways, as well as planting trees, shrubs and other greenery.
Contact our team today to learn more about our steel building landscaping services.