Creating An Urban Positive Sense of Place
Greenspaces in urban environments become gathering places by default. This biophilic attraction is an innate behaviour and an integral part of the human condition. The very presence of tropical trees, palms, foliage, and colourful hanging baskets installed in storefronts, restaurant patios, and business entrances, draws people in from city streets and sidewalks and entices them to patronize an establishment.
Businesses who embrace designing natural spaces out front become landmarks within their community. Navigational waypoint references like “Meet me at the café with the big palm trees”, allow businesses to stand out in a sea of steel, glass, and concrete.
Streetside patios and terraces rich in tropical foliage become an urban oasis. Customers also tend to linger longer and spend more money in these spaces because lush vegetation helps block out noise and absorb pollution and city smells.
Workplaces that provide urban private gardens on rooftops, patios, and terraces can transform their corporate culture simply by creating a tropical oasis where employees can eat lunch, take breaks, and bond with one another. These greenspaces become extensions of the indoor office environment since staff can take their work outside and enjoy fresh air and sunlight which leads to more productivity and a healthier team. As a meeting place, foliage rich patios & terraces help dissipate negative emotions and allow for more positive connections as a meeting place and for business entertaining.
Providing Habitat for Wildlife
Tropical gardens on terraces, patios, and balconies are an important source of food, shelter, and nesting sites for a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and bees. By greening urban outdoor workplaces, you help support local ecosystems and promote biodiversity.
Reducing Urban Heat Island Effect
Tropical trees, palms & foliage help to reduce the urban heat island effect, which occurs when areas in the city are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to the absorption and retention of heat by buildings and pavement. Unlike many native species, tropical plants can withstand bright sunlight & high heat, create much needed shade, and allow breezes to flow through while blocking high winds. They are the perfect choice for covering rooftops, patios & terraces to help cool urban temperatures during the summer months.
Improving Air Quality
Similar to native trees and plants, tropical plants greatly improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. In the downtown core, this can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of urban residents immersed in city life. A richly planted patio or terrace can be shielded from dust, exhaust, and fumes, leading to better health & comfort.
