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Why Commercial Landscaping Is More Important Than Ever in 2025

A well landscaped commercial building, following current trends

Why Commercial Landscaping Is More Important Than Ever in 2025

We think commercial landscaping in 2025 is more important than ever. As a business specializing in landscaping design and maintenance that’s not much of a surprise is it? But there are strong commercial landscaping trends to back up our assessment. 

Here they are:

Trend 1: The Mass Return To Office

As of writing this article, two major employers are requiring their employees to return to their offices: One local and one national.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order calling state workers back to government offices, and JPMorgan has set a deadline of March for all 300,000 of its employees to return to working in office. 

As large organizations ask their teams to begin their in-office return, every little bit helps incentivize these workers to make the trek back—starting with the business’ commercial landscaping. 

Nobody wants to return to an unappealing office, and well-designed outdoor areas can even be an in-office perk for employees who prefer to work outside during warm weather.

Plus, studies have shown that people are more productive, happier, and healthier when they have access to green spaces. 

For businesses looking to invest in attractive commercial landscaping for their employees, here are some trending concepts we recommend: 

  • Shade Solutions: Include pergolas, shade sails, or strategically planted trees to provide relief from the sun during warmer months. This makes outdoor spaces more usable throughout the day and increases comfort levels for employees.
  • Green Roofs and Living Walls: If space is limited, consider installing green roofs or living walls. These vertical gardens not only beautify the area but also improve air quality and reduce urban heat.
  • Seating Areas: Incorporate comfortable seating options such as benches, picnic tables, or lounge chairs. Use materials like weather-resistant wood, metal, or concrete to withstand outdoor conditions.
  • Technology Integration: Equip outdoor spaces with Wi-Fi connectivity and power outlets to encourage employees to work outside. These features are particularly attractive for companies looking to create modern, flexible workplaces.

Trend 2: The Shift Toward Suburban Offices

Over the past two decades, over two-thirds of new offices have been built in suburban areas, according to CommercialCafe

Unlike offices in urban downtown areas, these suburban businesses tend to be located on larger plots of land that require commercial landscaping services.

Here are some commercial landscaping options to consider if your business is part of this suburban office tend: 

  • Landscape Design and Installation: Crafting and implementing a cohesive plan that may encompass lawns, gardens, trees, shrubs, walkways, and lighting.
  • Regular Maintenance: Services such as mowing, pruning, fertilization, and pest control to ensure the landscape remains healthy and attractive.
  • Seasonal Enhancements: Planting seasonal flowers, mulching, and managing leaf removal to keep the landscape vibrant throughout the year.
  • Irrigation System Management: Installing and maintaining efficient watering systems to promote plant health and conserve water.
  • Hardscaping: Incorporating elements like patios, retaining walls, and pathways to enhance functionality and aesthetics.

Trend 3: Rising Temperatures 

The trend is clear: Our world is getting warmer. 

2024 was officially the warmest year on record, according to NASA. And the same has been true year after year in the Louisville, Kentucky area

An increase in temperatures can come with higher energy costs for offices during the summer. But these can be decreased with smart commercial landscaping.

Here’s how:

Strategically planting trees and shrubs can provide natural shade, reducing the need for air conditioning and lowering energy costs. Well-placed trees can reduce cooling costs by up to 30%, according to one widely cited study.

Increased vegetation in urban areas can help combat the heat island effect, where developed areas experience higher temperatures than outlying areas. This is particularly relevant for cities like Louisville, which have been identified as having significant urban heat island effects.

Responding To Commercial Landscaping Trends

The trends truly prove that commercial landscaping is more important than ever for Louisville, Kentucky-area businesses. 

By investing in thoughtful and sustainable landscaping practices, businesses can create environments that support employee well-being, enhance property appeal, and contribute to energy efficiency, all of which are vital in today’s changing landscape.

At Walnut Ridge Landscape & Design, we can design and maintain your commercial landscaping year-round. Contact us for a free consultation here.