Key Takeaways
- Decide on materials before you do anything.
- Choose a planter type for function and practicality.
- Design your space in accordance with your location and needs.
- Follow a carefully crafted routine to care for and maintain your planters.
If you run a busy commercial property, you understand the everyday grind around you. From dawn until dusk, hundreds, if not thousands, of faces come and go. To make a business feel memorable, adding greenery that makes a concrete square feel like a hangout in the park can go a long way towards branding.
But designing a green commercial space isn’t just about making it look great for a few selfies. It needs to be able to hold up to the wear and tear of the general public. That’s why when you begin developing plans to construct a greener commercial space, you need to be smart, efficient, and cost-effective.
Use Materials That Are Built to Last
Durability is probably the most important aspect of building a space with commercial greenery. If a surface is built to last, you end up replacing it less often and save money in the long run.
Entryways to buildings, patios, and corridors are constantly going to be at risk for dents, dings, moisture, and general weather conditions. When working with vendors, you’ll need to ask some important questions:
- How do I keep things clean and maintained?
- What would repairs look like in the future?
- How easily will the materials be damaged?
Figuring this out is going to be one of the best ways to help meet your long-term goals and help you gain some understanding of which commercial outdoor planters make the most sense for you and why.
If you’re looking for lightweight, weather- and rust-resistant material, fiberglass/fiberstone is the way to go. Powder-coated aluminum or steel planters can handle a hard impact and still keep their finish indoors or outdoors. GFCR (glass fiber reinforced concrete) is a heavy concrete-type planter with plenty of stability.
These are just a few types of outdoor planter materials that you can go for, but they’re not the only options available. You can still go with wood, recycled plastic, or Corten, which all have their own uses and benefits. At the end of the day, choosing the materials will all depend on your location and goals and should be the first thing you decide on before the next steps.
Types of Planters for Commercial Environments
Not all planters are created equal. It’s not just about changing the appearance of your business; the planters you select can also determine how people function around your business. Certain planters will guide patrons to sit, linger, or stare in particular places. You can also create an obvious entrance or lounging area based on the planters you select and place.
Your outdoor planters need to make sense for your design and location. Being strategic about remodeling can have an extremely positive effect on your business growth. Planters will vary in type and purpose, so it’s important to understand the effect each will have on your business.
Round Planters
These planters are great for softening hard corners and making entryways feel more welcoming. Use these as a focal point near doors and elevators.
Rectangular or Trough Planters
If the goal is to create clean edges along walkways and patios, trough planters are the way to go. They are perfect as designer privacy screens.
Column Planters
When floor space is a concern, use column planters. They’re great for adding dimension to storefronts.
Low-Bowl Planters
Used often in cafes and courtyards, these planters are great for seasonal color without taking up space.
Maintaining Your Investment So It Lasts
The durability of your commercial greenery isn’t a “set and forget” operation. When we talk about planters being durable, it means that they are resistant to everyday wear and tear. You still maintain responsibility for cleaning and keeping containers sanitized before replanting. Some ways to do this are:
Coated Metals
Rinse off any grime, then wash them with mild soap and water with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals if possible.
Fiberstone
These are coated with a UV finish, so you’ll only want to use a soft sponge, mild soap, and water. A little water and vinegar are fine to wipe down mineral spots.
GFRC
A soft brush and a pH-neutral cleanser are what you’ll need for these planters. You’ll also want to reseal them every three years or so to prevent stains and moisture from setting.
Generally speaking, for all containers, regular wiping with soap and water should be done monthly. Consult with your commercial outdoor planter retailer for the best ways to handle your products to maximize their lifespan.
