Colorado-Real-Estate-Journal_536814

INSIDE I n today’s competitive com- mercial real estate market, first impressions matter more than ever. Whether attracting pro- spective tenants, retaining cur- rent occupants, or enhancing prop- erty values, the landscape surround- ing a property plays a critical role in shaping perception. Increasingly, property owners and managers are investing in high-impact entrances and curb appeal enhancements that create memorable experiences while aligning with long-term sustainability goals. The challenge is no longer simply creating beautiful landscapes, it’s creating landscapes that are beauti- ful, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective to maintain. n The new standard: Class A appearance with sustainable prac- tices. Historically, premium properties relied heavily on expansive turf, sea- sonal flower rota- tions and intensive maintenance pro- grams to create a luxury appearance. Today’s landscape trends are shifting toward designs that deliver the same high-end aesthetic while reducing water consumption, maintenance inputs, and environmental impact. The modern approach combines strategic design, thoughtful plant selection and sustainable manage- ment practices to create a landscape that looks exceptional year-round without significantly increasing oper- ational costs. n Layered plant palettes: Depth, texture and interest. One of the stron- gest trends in commercial landscape design is the use of layered plant palettes. Rather than relying on large masses of a single species, design- ers are creating visual depth by incorporating a mix of trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, perennials and ground covers. Layered plantings provide year- round visual interest, greater biodi- versity, improved resilience to pests and disease, reduced replacement costs, and enhanced seasonal color and texture. When native and climate-adapted plants are incorporated into these designs, properties can further reduce irrigation demands while sup- porting local ecosystems. n Seasonal color programs with purpose. Seasonal color remains an important component of creating vibrant and welcoming entrances. However, today’s programs are becoming more strategic. Helping interior designers create spaces that better support human relationships AI design Preparing budgets, growing golf tourney, regional TOBY winners and more BOMA July 2026 PAGES 21-25 PAGE 4 Nicole Stone Vice president of business development, LMI Please see Stone, Page 20 Freeze-thaw cycles accelerate deterioration once moisture enters the building envelope Waterproof PAGE 12 Sustainable design: High-impact entrances, curb appeal Seasonal color remains an important component of creating vibrant and welcoming entrances.