Tips For Building Managers With Outdoor Spaces

A building’s outdoor space is not just an add-on or a perk but a crucial part of the property. It’s a respite, a breath of fresh air, and an integral part of your residents’ well-being. In addition, it’s often the first impression that potential tenants have of a property. If it’s maintained properly, attractive outdoor space can enhance your building’s value. This isn’t a “set it and forget it” situation, however. Outdoor spaces need at least quarterly maintenance routines to stay clean, trimmed, and inviting year-round. It can seem overwhelming, but the most important thing is to make a maintenance plan and stick to it. Even if a feature looks ‘ok’ now, it can get out of control quite quickly. 

The main things to always keep in mind are functionality and sustainability. If you don’t want to have to replant flowers year after year, don’t choose annuals when you’re planning. Instead, choose something more sustainable. If there are no children in your building but lots of pets, don’t add a sandbox as a feature; choose something more functional. Here are a few more tips to make maintaining your outdoor space the easiest item on your to-do list. 

Maintaining Outdoor Spaces

Start with the basics

Buying a fancy fire pit for your outdoor space won’t do anything if your concrete is cracked, there are bugs everywhere, and a/c units are dripping on everything. First, you’ve got to make sure you’ve handled any pest problems, fixed any safety issues, and gotten your outdoor space up to code. 

Utilize mature, well-tended plants in landscaping. 

The key with landscaping is to strike a balance between overgrown and sparse. Planting trees and bushes too small or young will look strange, but you also don’t want unruly vines that have to be trimmed every week. It’s worth putting time and research into selecting the best landscaping elements for your outdoor space.

Include hardscape in your design.

Rocks, glass, ceramic, or metal features are excellent choices because they can withstand weather and typically age pretty well. It doesn’t just have to be boulders, though. Many sculptural elements are designed for outdoor spaces and can add just the right touch to your area.

Consider water features. 

These can add to your maintenance routine but can make a huge impact on an outdoor space. Water fountains and ponds can quickly become eyesores if not cleaned and maintained correctly. 

Upgrade outdoor furniture and appliances regularly. 

Providing outdoor amenities is nice, but they start to depreciate if they are left to mold and rust. Rather than letting them get shabby, replacing grills and updating outdoor furniture can make a big difference. If it’s not in the budget to replace, even a coat of rust-proof paint can go a long way in updating your outdoor space. 

Make a big impact with small changes. 

Updating furniture cushion covers, changing out planter pots, and planting seasonal flowers are quick and easy changes that will be immediately noticeable to your tenants. Making these changes seasonally can be a low-cost item that can have a big impact on the appearance of your outdoor space. 

Check out our services for some additional ideas!

Upgrade Your Outdoor Space

If you have questions about where to start or how to start over with your outdoor space, Acre Landscaping can help! We can consult on the easiest to sustain features to fit the unique needs of your property. Contact us here!