We all have to live in this world so if you can, at least make it look nice!

The Urbanization of Our Landscape And The Role Of Landscaping

A little over a year ago another vacant field gave way to a supermarket. The field was nothing special but it did add a little greenery to an already well paved, bricked and mortared environment. 

When putting up a new building for a grocery store if the only objective is utilitarian then perhaps a concrete box with a paved parking area and some lighting would suffice. However, shouldn't the objective also be to have the building as pleasing to the eye as possible? 

Does It Make A Difference?

According to an article at the Washington Department of Education's website: 

"Urban nature, when provided as parks and walkways and incorporated into building design, provides calming and inspiring environments and encourages learning, inquisitiveness, and alertness". 

Please also see my previous article on how green areas are healing!

Here's An Example Of At Least Trying To Get It Right!

I won't go so far as to call this grocery store beautiful but I will say that a good attempt has been made to landscape the site to an eye appealing level.

The median between the parking rows has ground cover and the first of several old transplanted olive trees

Here we see a second olive tree within a border area separating the bicycle parking from the scooter parking!

Another olive tree and border has been added to this corner which is simply the entrance ramp to the loading docks!

The olive tree theme has spilled its way into the roundabout which leads to the building's parking area.

Far from mundane, this plant adds an exotic feel to the premises!

This gigantic terracotta vase is a nice addition to the Mediterranean theme and it ties in well with the building's red brick!

What Do You Think?

• Should architects work to improve on landscaping?
• Do you feel calmer and more inspired when there is more greenery?
• Have you noticed an improvement or a regression in the landscaping of buildings in your area?

I hope that you enjoyed this  exploration of making buildings look good!

Until next time,

@kus-knee (The Old Dog)

Remember, I reward the best comment(s) on each of my posts with my "The Old Dog is Throwing You a Bone" program! So please re-steem and follow so that we can spread the wealth!