Adapting to Changing Landscaping Trends: Insights from Leaders
In the evolving world of green spaces, we’ve gathered insights from eleven industry experts, including Owners and a President, on the latest trends they’ve adopted in the landscaping industry. They discuss everything from embracing eco-friendly landscaping practices to capitalizing on energy-efficient renovations, revealing how these trends have reshaped their business strategies and offerings.
- Embrace Eco-Friendly Landscaping Practices
- Adopt Biophilic Design Principles
- Focus on Functional Hardscaping
- Utilize Business Management Software
- Integrate Smart-Automation Technology
- Shift to Sustainable Irrigation Systems
- Demand for Quality Fencing Rises
- Incorporate Native Plants for Sustainability
- Sustainable Landscaping Attracts Eco-Conscious Clients
- Innovate with Luminescent Landscaping Materials
- Capitalize on Energy-Efficient Renovations
Embrace Eco-Friendly Landscaping Practices
One notable trend we’ve enthusiastically embraced at Steve’s Services is the utilization of eco-friendly and sustainable landscaping practices. This eco-conscious approach resonates deeply with our commitment to enhancing outdoor spaces while minimizing our environmental footprint.
For instance, we’ve increasingly incorporated native plants into our designs, which thrive well in the Massachusetts climate. These plants require less water and maintenance, drastically reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and irrigation, making them both a sustainable and economically viable option for our clients.
Furthermore, our focus on sustainability extends to our use of permeable paving materials in our hardscaping projects. By allowing water to percolate through the ground, these materials help manage stormwater runoff, reduce erosion, and replenish groundwater—aligning with broader environmental goals of sustainability and resilience against climate change. This method not only appeals to environmentally conscious consumers but also positions us as a leader in responsible landscaping practices.
Adopting these sustainable practices has fundamentally shifted our business approach and offerings, enabling us to cater to a market segment that prioritizes environmental impact. It has also fostered deeper connections with our clients, who appreciate our commitment to ecological stewardship.
By integrating these environmentally friendly practices, we’re not just beautifying spaces; we’re ensuring they’re sustainable for generations to come, which has significantly contributed to the growth and reputation of our business in the competitive landscaping market.
Steve Sylva
Owner, Steve’s Services Landscape Company
Adopt Biophilic Design Principles
One trend we’ve passionately adopted at Boston Landscape Co. is the implementation of biophilic design principles, which create a harmonious integration of natural elements into commercial and residential landscapes.
Understanding the significant benefits of nature-connected environments on human well-being and productivity, we’ve incorporated features like living walls, rooftop gardens, and natural material elements into our landscape architectures. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of spaces but also aligns with broader environmental sustainability goals.
For instance, in a recent project for a corporate campus, we designed an outdoor workspace that included a variety of biophilic elements such as vertical gardens that acted as air purifiers and aesthetic focal points. This space has not only increased employee satisfaction but also boosted their productivity, showcasing the direct benefits of integrating natural elements into working environments.
Adapting to this trend has significantly shifted our business strategy, allowing us to offer innovative solutions that meet the growing demand for sustainable and wellness-focused designs. It positions Boston Landscape Co. as a pioneer in the field, capable of merging aesthetic landscaping with environmental and human health benefits.
This strategic alignment has expanded our clientele base to include businesses and residential clients who prioritize sustainability and well-being, thus broadening our market reach and enhancing our brand’s value in competitive landscaping markets.
Steve Schumacher
Owner, Boston Landscape Co.
Focus on Functional Hardscaping
One trend in the landscaping industry that SalCorp Landscaping & Construction has fully embraced is the increasing focus on hardscaping as integral elements of outdoor living spaces. This shift reflects the modern homeowner’s desire for outdoor areas that are not only beautiful but also highly functional and sustainable.
In response, SalCorp, through our specialized division PatioScapes, has ramped up offerings that include expert hardscape solutions like retaining walls, custom staircases, and diverse paving options. For instance, our projects now regularly incorporate the use of pavers for driveways and walkways, which are preferred over traditional asphalt or cement due to their durability, low maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal. We’ve noticed that using pavers not only elevates the overall look but also significantly enhances the property’s curb appeal and value.
This adaptation to include advanced hardscaping has allowed us to meet client expectations better and open up new revenue streams. Projects that utilize these materials demonstrate their long-lasting benefits and cost-effectiveness, making them a smart investment for clients, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. The ability to provide a broad range of hardscaping options also sets SalCorp apart in a competitive market, affirming our commitment to offering comprehensive and innovative outdoor solutions.
Sal Musto
Owner, SalCorp Landscaping & Construction
Utilize Business Management Software
As someone who has access to hundreds of small- to medium-sized landscaping companies, I will say that the adoption of business management software is a very popular trend.
Landscapers are looking to use software to automate their daily administrative tasks and spend fewer late nights processing invoices or coordinating employee schedules.
More and more landscapers are adopting business management software to automate their business and get more free time back.
Liam Lafferty
Co-Founder, Zentive
Integrate Smart-Automation Technology
One trend in the landscaping industry that my company, Berriz Design Build Group, has enthusiastically embraced is the integration of smart-automation technology into our pool and landscape projects. This adaptation not only responds to the increasing consumer demand for convenience and energy efficiency but also elevates the functionality and aesthetic value of outdoor spaces.
For instance, in our recent pool renovation projects, we’ve implemented systems where clients can control lighting, water temperature, and even music playlists through their smartphones or tablets. This type of innovation not only enhances the user experience but also significantly improves energy efficiency, as these systems often include programmable settings that minimize energy waste.
Moreover, this shift toward integrating technology has opened up new avenues for our business. It allows us to offer highly customized solutions that align more closely with the modern homeowner’s lifestyle, thus widening our market and appealing to a more tech-savvy demographic. For example, our use of energy-efficient LED lighting and automated irrigation systems appeals to clients interested in sustainability, making our projects not only beautiful but also environmentally responsible. By staying at the forefront of technological integration within the landscape industry, we continue to distinguish our offerings and expand our clientele.
Bob Berriz
Creative Director, Berriz Design
Shift to Sustainable Irrigation Systems
One trend I’ve wholeheartedly embraced in the landscaping industry is the shift towards more sustainable and water-efficient irrigation systems. This focus has significantly altered our business strategy and offerings at P.J. Pappas, where we specialize in both irrigation and landscape lighting systems. Recognizing the growing concern for environmental impacts and the rising costs of water, we pivoted early to include water-smart technologies, becoming a Rain Bird Select Contractor. This particular partnership has enabled us to utilize state-of-the-art products that drastically reduce water wastage.
Our approach involves the installation of smart irrigation systems that include weather-sensitive programming and soil moisture sensors. These systems adjust watering schedules based on real-time weather data and soil conditions, ensuring that landscapes receive exactly the amount of water needed—no more, no less. By integrating these technologies, we’ve not only helped our clients reduce their water bills but also contributed to water conservation efforts—an increasingly critical consideration in sustainable landscaping practices.
Moreover, this adaptation has opened up opportunities for us to serve a market segment that’s deeply invested in environmental sustainability. We’ve seen a substantial increase in clientele who prefer eco-friendly solutions for their landscaping needs. Adopting this trend has enabled us to stay competitive and relevant in the industry while aligning our operations with broader environmental values. This strategic shift has not only enhanced our reputation as forward-thinking irrigation specialists but also cemented customer loyalty by aligning with their values.
Peter Pappas
Owner, P.J. Pappas Company
Demand for Quality Fencing Rises
One trend in the landscaping industry that I’ve embraced is the rising demand for quality fencing. Fencing not only adds value to homes but also enhances privacy and security, making it a top priority for many homeowners.
Luke Beerman
Owner, Freedom Fence
Incorporate Native Plants for Sustainability
One significant trend in the landscaping industry that we at Hutter Architects have embraced is the integration of native plants into our designs. This shift toward using indigenous vegetation is rooted in the growing awareness and necessity for sustainability—which is a core value deeply entrenched in our business philosophy.
Native plants are adapted to local climates and soil conditions, reducing the need for water by up to 50% compared to non-native species. This not only conserves water but also reduces the demand for chemical fertilizers and maintenance, aligning with eco-friendly practices and decreasing long-term costs for homeowners.
Adapting to this practice has allowed us to offer more environmentally sustainable landscaping options as part of our comprehensive design packages. It positions us as a firm that does not just create beautiful spaces but also responsible and sustainable ones. By promoting these values, we attract clients who are conscious of their environmental impact, broadening our market and reinforcing our brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Moreover, this trend has led us to focus more on holistic landscape solutions. For instance, considering the combined impact of native plants, rainwater harvesting systems, and permeable paving materials enhances our designs’ functionality and appeal.
This integrated approach not only meets modern homeowners’ needs but also sets us apart in a competitive industry, ensuring our business remains relevant and forward-thinking. This method benefits our clients economically and ecologically, creating spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial to the planet.
Pam Hutter
Principal, Hutter Architects
Sustainable Landscaping Attracts Eco-Conscious Clients
I’ve adopted sustainable landscaping as a major trend in my business. It’s changed how we operate by emphasizing eco-friendly methods—like using native plants to cut down on water use and opting for organic fertilizers. I’ve found that more and more clients care about their environmental impact, which has helped us build better relationships with them.
To keep track of what our clients want and how they feel about our service, we’ve upgraded to advanced CRM systems. This helps us offer a more personalized and efficient experience. Focusing on sustainability sets us apart in the market and helps protect the environment. Promoting responsible landscaping has not only strengthened our brand but also built a loyal customer base that values eco-friendly choices.
Mike Drouin
Co-Founder, Digital Marketing Director, Gardening & Home Improvement Expert, Reefertilizer
Innovate with Luminescent Landscaping Materials
One emerging trend in the landscaping industry that I’ve championed through my company, Glow Path Pavers, is the innovative integration of lighting within landscaping materials. Our unique approach incorporates luminescent aggregates into pavers, which absorb UV light during the day and emit a soft glow at night. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also boosts functional value by illuminating pathways and outdoor spaces, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
The adoption of Glow Path Technology has significantly transformed our business strategy and offerings. By infusing our pavers with this technology, we’ve expanded our product line to include not just landscaping materials but also innovative lighting solutions. This dual functionality meets the consumer’s desire for both practicality and visual appeal in outdoor spaces, widening our market reach and increasing the appeal of our products.
Additionally, this technology aligns with eco-friendly practices as it requires no external power sources, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Our pavers ensure prolonged durability as they are designed not to require maintenance related to lighting components. This aspect has set us apart in the landscaping industry, fostering a strong brand identity centered on innovation, sustainability, and design superiority.
Alex Ketty
President, Glow Path Pavers
Capitalize on Energy-Efficient Renovations
One trend we’ve capitalized on at Intrabuild is the growing demand for energy-efficient renovations, specifically through the strategic installation of modern windows and heating systems. This adaptation is not only a response to consumer demand for sustainability but also an acknowledgment of the significant impact such improvements can have on a property’s market value and energy consumption.
For example, in several of our projects, including the Moss Residence in NYC, we replaced old, inefficient windows with new, energy-efficient models that help insulate the apartment against weather extremes. This change has proven to significantly reduce heating and cooling costs for homeowners, which is a highly marketable feature in the competitive New York real estate market. Plus, these upgrades frequently offer the highest return on investment when it comes time to sell or re-evaluate property values.
Adopting energy efficiency as a cornerstone of our business strategy has not only enhanced our offerings but also established Intrabuild as a leader in innovative and sustainable remodeling solutions. It resonates with our market’s growing environmental consciousness and positions us perfectly to cater to future trends in real estate. By focusing on practical, value-adding renovations, we ensure our projects are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, aligning with broader environmental goals while meeting specific client needs.
Nick Chatzigeorgakis
CEO, Intrabuild
Submit Your Answer
Would you like to submit an alternate answer to the question, “What is one trend in the landscaping industry that you have embraced or adapted to, and how has this change influenced your business strategy and offerings?”