Commercial landscaping is not normally the primary focus of Details Landscape Art. Since 1991, we have concentrated on designing and building residential landscapes throughout Sonoma, Marin, and Napa Counties. Occasionally, however, we encounter certain types of commercial properties that share many of the same characteristics and needs as residential gardens.
We refer to these properties as “quasi-residential” because their guests and visitors are looking for many of the same qualities homeowners seek in a garden—beauty, comfort, relaxation, and a sense of place.
We like to say that the appearance of the exterior of a facility makes a powerful statement about the quality of the products and services offered inside.
Commercial Landscaping for Hospitality Properties
Some commercial properties benefit tremendously from landscaping that feels more residential than commercial.
Rather than sterile, institutional surroundings, these businesses thrive when visitors feel relaxed and comfortable.
Bed and Breakfasts
Bed and breakfasts are perhaps the perfect example.
Garden at a local bed and breakfast
Guests choose bed and breakfasts because they are seeking a “home away from home” experience rather than a traditional hotel environment. Beautiful gardens, intimate patios, walkways, outdoor seating areas, and swimming pool landscapes all contribute to that experience.
The same principles we apply to residential garden design can be used to create inviting outdoor spaces for guests.
Small Resorts
Small resorts often share many similarities with residential properties, although on a larger scale.
Commercial landscaping at a small resort
Multiple buildings, pools, outdoor gathering spaces, patios, walkways, and gardens can all be woven together into a cohesive landscape that encourages guests to linger and relax.
Commercial Landscaping – Wineries and Outdoor Experiences
Sonoma and Napa County wineries are natural candidates for beautiful landscape design.
The grounds at a Sonoma County winery
Visitors often spend hours at a winery tasting room, enjoying wine with friends and family, sharing a picnic lunch, or attending special events. A thoughtfully designed garden enhances that experience.
Outdoor seating areas, shade structures, pathways, ornamental plantings, vegetable gardens, and herb gardens can all contribute to creating an environment that encourages visitors to stay longer and enjoy the property.
A fine wine deserves a fine garden.
Commercial Landscaping – Country Clubs and Golf Facilities
Country clubs and golf courses often have opportunities to improve the landscape areas surrounding their facilities.
Clubhouses, swimming pools, entry drives, practice facilities, and gathering spaces all benefit from attractive landscape design.
Too often these areas are treated as secondary to the golf course itself. Yet they are among the first and last impressions members and guests experience when visiting the property.
Beautiful gardens can significantly enhance the overall appearance and atmosphere of the facility.
Rural Restaurants and Gathering Places
Many rural restaurants occupy unique settings that lend themselves naturally to exceptional landscaping.
Outdoor dining patios, courtyards, entry gardens, and even vegetable gardens can become part of the overall dining experience.
When guests are encouraged to relax and enjoy their surroundings, the landscape becomes an extension of the hospitality being offered.
Creating Places Where People Want to Stay
Whether the property is a winery, bed and breakfast, country club, resort, or rural restaurant, the objective is often the same.
The goal is to create an environment where people feel comfortable lingering and enjoying the experience.
At Details Landscape Art, we approach these projects much the same way we approach residential gardens. We create outdoor spaces that are attractive, functional, and welcoming.
Any quasi-residential facility that caters to visitors who linger and enjoy its products or services can benefit from thoughtful landscape design. After all, these properties often have many of the same garden needs as a residence—they simply serve more people.