Hotel Commercial Landscaping

Pugh’s Earthworks

Hotel Commercial Landscaping is not merely about keeping up appearances. It is an elaborate choreography of design, maintenance, and sustainability that plays a pivotal role in guest experiences and the overall success of a hotel’s brand. In this post, Pugh’s Earthworks will delve into the art and science of hotel landscaping, exploring why it is more than just a pretty garden and how it can become a key competitive differentiator.

The Importance of Landscaping for Hotels

Landscaping is often the initial point of interaction a guest has with a hotel. The driveway lined with ornate trees; the entrance flanked by vibrant flowers—these are the first impressions that cement a perception of hospitality. Yet beyond aesthetical allure, landscaping is an essential component of a hotel’s identity. From luxury to eco-friendly, traditional to contemporary, the landscaping aligns with and reinforces a hotel’s brand and atmosphere.

Proper landscaping also compliments a hotel’s building design, amplifying architectural features and directing attention to critical areas. It invites guests to explore and spend time outdoors, perhaps in a meticulously arranged garden or poolside oasis. As such, the outdoor spaces of a hotel have to be thoughtfully considered and carefully managed to ensure they continue to serve these important roles effectively.

Benefits of Commercial Landscaping

While we already hinted at some of the advantages of commercial landscaping for hotels, let’s dissect this further.

Enhancing Curb Appeal – In a competitive marketplace, curb appeal can be a make-it-or-break-it factor. The visibility and attractiveness of a hotel from the street can influence a passerby’s decision to stop and check-in. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed landscape can draw in potential guests, assuring them that their stay will be as pleasurable as the hotel’s exterior promises.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere – Hotel landscaping has the power to set the mood. Flowing, organic designs imbue a space with a sense of calm, while structured patterns can convey modernity and elegance. Each leaf, tendril, and bloom contribute to the atmosphere—building anticipation and comfort for what lies beyond the lobby.
Improving Guest Experience – A memorable stay often involves more than a comfortable bed and good service. The outdoor spaces provide a change of scenery, places to relax, and sometimes, breathing space. Elaborate gardens, tranquil ponds, and inviting terraces all to become extended realms through which guests can unwind and enjoy the hotel’s amenities.

Designing a Hotel Landscape

Crafting an exterior that harmonizes with the hotel’s interior is an art. It begins with a deep understanding of the brand, its values, and the image it wishes to convey. These are all areas Pugh’s Earthworks has experience with.

Considering the Hotel’s Brand and Theme – A luxurious hotel might opt for elaborate designs with exotic plants, while a modern boutique hotel may choose minimalist gardens with clean lines and a monochrome palette. By understanding the hotel’s brand and theme, the landscaping design becomes a subtler way to communicate these attributes.
Incorporating Local Flora – Translating local landscapes into hotel grounds can anchor the property within its environment. Native plants and materials bridge the gap between the hotel and its location, lending authenticity to the experience and fostering a sense of place for guests.
Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality – A stunning floral arrangement that obstructs a fire escape is not only a safety hazard but an example of form over function. The landscape design must be practical, allowing for smooth operation while adhering to local regulations and best practices. It should also consider the sustainability and longevity of the plants and features, ensuring they contribute to the environment and are likely to thrive for years to come.

Low-Maintenance Landscaping Options

In our busy world, low maintenance is often equated with sustainability. Highlighting options for efficient upkeep can save time, resources, and contribute to an environmentally friendly approach.

Drought-Tolerant Plants – In regions prone to water scarcity, xeriscaping with drought-resistant plants can be a lifesaver. These hardy varieties often need little more than what naturally falls from the sky, reducing a hotel’s water usage while still providing a lush, attractive landscape.
Efficient Irrigation Systems – Smart irrigation systems that respond to weather changes and moisture levels in the soil can ensure that water isn’t wasted. Products like drip irrigation or moisture sensors can be subtle solutions to keep a landscape thriving with minimal involvement.
Artificial Turf – For dramatic landscapes that see a lot of foot traffic, artificial turf might be a pragmatic choice. It maintains a perfect green without the need for mowing, weeding, or watering, and it can provide a safe and enjoyable space for guests to use without worrying about skin sensitivities or the need for pesticides.

Sustainable Landscaping Practices

Sustainability is not just a trend; it is a mandate. Hotels looking to be eco-friendly while maintaining a high standard of landscaping can adopt various sustainable practices.

Water Conservation Techniques – The use of greywater systems or the capture of rainwater for irrigation can significantly minimize water usage. These techniques also ensure that precious water isn’t wasted, and they can contribute to the narrative of an environmentally conscious hotel.
Native Plant Selection – Selecting indigenous plants doesn’t just simplify maintenance; it also supports local ecosystems. These plants have evolved to thrive in the area and support local wildlife, enmeshing the hotel within the natural systems of the region.
Incorporating Green Infrastructure – Green roofs, living walls, and permeable hardscapes not only enhance the design but also offer practical environmental benefits. They can lower energy consumption, manage stormwater, and improve air quality, ensuring that the landscaping is as functional as it is beautiful.

Choosing the Right Landscaping Company

The success of a hotel’s landscaping endeavor often hinges on the expertise and vision of the professional landscaping company chosen to bring it to life.

Evaluating Experience and Expertise – A company with a track record in commercial properties, particularly hotels, is critical. They should understand the unique demands of these environments and have experience in managing large-scale projects.
Reviewing Portfolio and References – A solid portfolio with similar projects, along with positive references from past clients, should be non-negotiable. This provides a sense of what the company can achieve and the standard of service they provide.
Ensuring Proper Licensing and Insurance – Any landscaping company worth its salt should be able to provide evidence of proper licenses, as well as insurance. This protects both the hotel and the company in case of any unforeseen incidents or accidents during the project.

Conclusion

In the world of hospitality, first impressions and guest amenity environments are top priorities. Hotel Commercial Landscaping encapsulates these values in a way that few other amenities can. It provides an opportunity to craft a narrative about not just the hotel’s beauty, but also its values, its relationship with the local community, and its commitment to sustainability.

As hotels continue to cater to an increasingly discerning and environmentally conscious customer base, the role of landscaping will only become more critical. Those that leverage their exterior spaces with thoughtfulness, creativity, and an eye on the environment stand to create experiences that guests remember long after they’ve checked out. Whether it’s a sprawling resort or a small urban boutique, the potential in hotel commercial landscaping is vast and varied, just waiting to be cultivated.

Pugh’s Earthworks has many delighted customers:

“As the General Manager of the Embassy Suites Hotel in Little Rock, Arkansas, I have the responsibility to maintain and present our hotel in the best possible light. This not only includes the hotel’s public areas and guest suites but also the exterior landscaping of the building. In fact, the condition of the hotel’s grounds should definitely not be overlooked, because they give our customer an idea of what they can expect inside.

“In the last three years we have had two different companies manage our landscaping. They were both okay but their performance was ‘spotty’. I’m sure that every manager in Little Rock has heard the story: ‘two of my guys called in so we can only mow the lawn today,’ or not even show up at all.

“Then I got lucky. Mr. Steve Williamson, a regular customer of ours, asked to give me a bid for our landscape maintenance. Of course I was skeptical but I had nothing to lose. When I got the bid I was pleasantly surprised. Complete with picture, the bid actually make sense, was well thought out, explained our current problems and what we could expect from him, and best of all, it was within our budget. So, I signed on the dotted line.

“Now, the best part. Pugh’s Earthworks has delivered on all promises and our grounds look better than they have looked in years. And, I can now go back to taking care of the hotel business instead of following up on landscaping companies.

“If you want a company that does what they say they will do at a fair price, you can’t go wrong with Pugh’s Earthworks. They have my whole-hearted recommendations.”

Larry Farrar, General Manager

Embassy Suites Hotel, Little Rock AR

Pugh’s Earthworks
We operate 5 landscape centers, in 3 states.

Our headquarters is in Memphis, Tennessee. We also operate landscape offices in Nashville, Jackson TN, Southaven MS and Little Rock AR. Our firm provides monthly grounds maintenance services for commercial clients. If you are seeking assistance with Landscaping or Lawn Maintenance services, please give us a call or send us a message via the contact form below. We do offer FREE Estimates. We also do enhancements for residential yards, but do not service residential yards unless they are part of an HOA. We do HOA’s!

Memphis Headquarters

Phone: (866) 207-4734