There are many ways to enhance a structure’s aesthetic appeal and create a harmonious relationship with the natural environment. One of those ways is to integrate seasonal blooms and thoughtful landscaping. Whether you choose to preserve the existing plant life or add native species, landscaping is crucial to creating a visually stunning and ecologically balanced structure that seamlessly blends into its setting.

Preserving Natural Plant Life

The best starting point is often taking a look at the natural flora around a bridge or other structure. Top-down construction is one step towards preserving the existing trees, shrubs, and other plants, and it maintains the local ecosystem while providing a beautiful and natural backdrop. When possible, working with a landscape designer or horticulturist in addition to your bridge designer can help identify which plants should be undisturbed during construction, or even plants that you may want to carefully relocate.

In sensitive areas like wetlands and dunes, prioritizing vegetation can preserve the natural habitat and help prevent invasive species from taking over. The goal during construction is to reduce environmental impact and enhance the existing landscape.

Adding Native Plants

The landscape around bridges, pavilions, and other structures can be enhanced by adding native plants that thrive in your area. Native plants also require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance since they’re already adapted to the local conditions. They also attract and feed local pollinators and other wildlife, which helps to promote a thriving ecosystem.

Think about the seasonal blooms that naturally complement existing plant life. For example, blooming Florida natives like coral honeysuckle, columbine, and yucca can offer vibrant bursts of color or depth to the landscape.

Incorporating Walkways and Seating

Visitors love opportunities to appreciate seasonal blooms and the surrounding landscape. Incorporating additional pathways, seating areas, and observation points can help provide vantage points. Pathways can be elevated to create a different view, or natural materials like rock or mulch can reduce environmental impact while providing a distinct route for exploring and watching wildlife. Seating made of locally sourced wood can be strategically placed in beautiful areas to create a place to relax or reflect while taking in the beauty of the property.

Creating Multi-Layered Landscapes

Boardwalk designers consider the area before beginning a project. With landscaping, you can add even more depth and variety. A multi-layered landscape can be created with plants of different heights and textures. Maybe tall grasses and shrubs provide a backdrop while medium-sized perennials and ground covers cover the area nearer the walkway. Arranging plants this way provides visual interest, and choosing flowers that bloom at different times allow visitors to see blooms throughout the year.

Sustainable Landscaping

While designing and building around your structure, consider sustainability. You can install rain gardens to help manage stormwater runoff while creating a place for water-loving plants. When you use best practices for mulching, plants retain moisture better, and the soil doesn’t erode as quickly.

Thoughtful landscaping around bridges and other structures can enhance their natural appeal and create a space that invites exploration, reflection, and celebration of the environment. When you preserve exiting flora, incorporate native species, and design multi-layered landscapes with sustainable practices, your bridge or structure built by Nature Bridges can seamlessly integrate with the natural habitat and enrich the lives of the community and its visitors.