A plaza is an open, outdoor public space in an urban area, usually on the exterior of a building. It can operate as a kind of extension of the building and is often the first thing that passersby and members of the public see. A plaza brings nature to urban areas and offers a sense of openness in busy and crowded cities.
New York City is famous for its parks and plazas. Some of the most well-known plazas in NY include Madison Avenue Plaza, the Freedom Plaza, the United Nations Plaza on the banks of the East River, the Flatiron Plaza, with its view of one of the most iconic buildings in the New York skyline, and the Pier 3 plaza with its sweeping views of the skyline and harbor.
A beautifully landscaped and well-maintained plaza can reflect the building or business to which it is attached.
Transforming public plazas through landscaping creates spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional. At Cambridge, we have created landscape designs for several plazas in and around New York City, and we keep these spaces beautiful through seasonal plantings and regular rotations.
The Benefits of Plaza Landscaping
Good plaza landscaping can create a positive first impression. As the first thing people see when they approach a building, it can set the right tone by creating an inviting atmosphere for workers, residents, and visitors throughout the day.
A beautiful plaza with practical features, such as seating, can act as a mixed-use development for the city’s residents and visitors. These features offer seating solutions in crowded areas and support pedestrian traffic, enhancing community interaction and providing gathering spaces. Some plazas are even used for community events programming and cultural events, enriching urban life. Given their wide range of uses, landscaping is essential not only for maintaining the visual appeal of these spaces but also for supporting their functionality and enhancing everyone’s overall experience.
The urban park experience provides a place to take a break and enjoy some respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Well-designed plazas also provide green spaces and community-focused destinations that enhance quality of life and foster interaction and socializing. They transform streets and concrete areas into vibrant places for gathering and connection.
When they see a beautifully decorated plaza, tourists and locals alike will stop to take pictures of this touch of nature in the city. They may share these posts on social media, enhancing brand recognition for businesses. Unique displays inspired by holidays, events, or branding elements can encourage people to share their photos online.
Read on to learn how to maximize your outdoor space with well-designed landscaping features.
Creating Aesthetically Beautiful and Functional Plazas with Landscape Architecture
Depending on the specifics of your site, there are numerous ways to incorporate plants, trees, and other landscaping elements to elevate your environment.
Plants and trees can be placed strategically to define distinct areas or zones, enhance traffic flow through a space, and invite visitors to explore. Sites without preexisting landscaping features can incorporate elements such as outdoor planters to add structure. Landscaping can also enhance seating areas by providing shade, natural privacy, and a sense of comfort by transforming benches into a welcoming environment. A thoughtfully designed layout can improve visitor engagement and support accessibility.
At Cambridge, we understand that every outdoor space is unique. That’s why we begin each project with a consultation and site visit. This ultimately allows us to create an aesthetically appealing and functional design to suit your specific needs.
Incorporating Sustainable Landscaping Practices in NY
Transitioning to more sustainable ways of living is vital everywhere, particularly in busy urban areas like New York City. You can incorporate sustainable practices into your landscaping to improve the urban experience for today’s users and preserve it for future generations. Sustainable landscaping practices evolve over time, adapting to changing environmental conditions and ensuring long-term benefits.
Fill your planting areas with low-maintenance plants that require minimal watering, fertilization, or pruning. These plants are a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.
Choosing native species that thrive in NY’s climate with little supplemental water or fertilizer is a great way to support local biodiversity. Choosing pollinator plants is another great way to enhance the sustainability of your space.
Soil and water conservation practices, such as proper irrigation and mulching, promote a healthy, sustainable environment for your plants and the surrounding area.
At Cambridge, we have a strong commitment to sustainable landscaping design. To this end, we prioritize sustainable work methods, such as using electrical tools and machinery rather than fossil fuels.
Rotating Your Landscape Seasonally
A series of seasonal plant rotations enhances the visual appeal of your plaza throughout the year, offering a fresh look and reflecting every season. This ongoing change can further enhance its visual appeal and community engagement, create a positive public perception, and make the space more attractive and welcoming to the community throughout the year.
Creating special displays, such as event displays or those themed with holiday decor, can also enhance visual interest and encourage visitors to gather in your space, take photographs, and return regularly.
Landscaping in the City That Never Sleeps: Design Considerations in NYC
The majority of NY plazas are located in Manhattan, the urban center of the city. Before commencing a landscaping project, it is essential to understand the unique needs and characteristics of this iconic locale.
New York’s weather conditions can be challenging, with sweltering temperatures in the summer and snow, ice, and bitter cold in the winter. Therefore, it is crucial to choose hardy, native plants that can withstand these conditions.
Cambridge: Your Trusted Provider of Commercial Plaza Landscaping, NYC
Cambridge has been providing landscaping services to New York’s business community for more than 20 years. As local experts with an unmatched understanding of the Big Apple, we take a bespoke approach to each site and project, accommodating your ideas while adding our unique design flair.
Want to get inspired? Check out our portfolio of completed projects. Or, if you’re ready to get started, contact us today for an initial consultation.