Want your Greater Chicago commercial property to look attractive? Of course! But how much of your budget should go to large landscaping projects, and how long do they typically take?

Planning and timing vary widely, so it's important to be prepared. Cutting corners or going in unready isn’t advisable, as your property's appearance reflects the service quality you offer inside.

Let’s discuss typical timelines and budgets for commercial landscaping so you can plan more effectively for your Greater Chicago site.

Understanding the Importance of Commercial Landscape Design in Greater Chicago

First impressions are important for commercial businesses.

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Think about it this way: if your lawn is full of brown spots or weeds, you can give your business a nasty reputation. On the contrary, a healthy, green lawn, trimmed and bordered with beds of bold, beautiful blooms, shows you care about your property and your customers.

landscape planting bed near the entrance of an HOA pool

While you might focus on your interior spaces—such as retail store shelves, hotel rooms, medical procedure rooms, or offices—neglecting the front entryway can undermine trust.

If flowers are wilting or overrun with weeds, clients may question the cleanliness and maintenance of your interior. To draw in visitors, customers, tenants, and guests, professional commercial landscape design in Greater Chicago is essential.

A well-maintained appearance can enhance your local reputation and increase your property value.

Planning Considerations For Large Landscaping Projects

When you want to renovate or add a key functional and beautiful area to your Greater Chicago area commercial property, you want to jump right in. But planning is essential.

You want to consider all essential costs to make sure you’re ready for everything you need and genuinely want to include in your space.


The planning phase is essential because this is when budgets are established, contracts are finalized, and procurement of materials and plants starts. Providing your landscape professional with all the accurate, up-to-date project information ensures a thorough, precise estimate.

Consider these factors when preparing for your large landscaping project in Greater Chicago.

Planning and Budgeting Basics

For large landscaping projects, your commercial landscape professional should offer as much budget predictability as possible.

While larger projects may include unexpected elements that can surprise you, your landscape professional should consistently provide guidance on managing overages efficiently.

construction superintendent and commercial landscape

Workflow and seasonal timing always influence when a project should begin. Clearly communicating what is feasible and what isn't is essential. No one wants work completed only to discover it might need to be redone later.

Handling Changes and Change Order Contract Clauses

Most large landscaping projects typically include a change order process.

Additionally, many projects incorporate contingency allowances or percentage buffers to cover unforeseen costs or requests that weren't part of the initial scope.

 

Commercial Property Manager? Check Out the KD Guide to Landscape Maintenance

A key piece of this is to conduct a thorough review of all the documentation to ensure verbiage is included for change orders.

What Factors Can Negatively Impact Project Timelines?

In the windy city, weather is the primary factor affecting a commercial landscaping schedule. Understanding the type of work and optimal timing allows your landscape professional to meet deadlines and expectations.

commercial construction machine loading stone

Your landscape provider should outline the timelines and services they will deliver with your team for clarity.

Regular communication with project managers, principals, and government agencies will ensure your commercial landscape professional has a clear and transparent plan to complete the project on time and meet your expectations.

 

Controllable and Uncontrollable Circumstances

Each large landscaping project varies, making clear communication of each contractor's expectations essential.

Clients should receive a detailed timeline or calendar outlining the completion dates for each vendor before work begins. Regular meetings are important to ensure all teams stay informed and aligned on the project's progress.

A reputable contractor will perform a comprehensive safety assessment before starting work.

Need Help With Commercial Landscape Construction In Greater Chicago? Call KD Landscape

As you look at your budget and your commercial landscape project timelines, you want to feel good about your choice, knowing your dollars are being spent wisely, that you understand how the project will go, and that your expectations are being met.

But you are swamped, and it might be hard for you to plan all this, stay abreast of project updates and changes, and keep the budget in check. You need a partner to help you stay informed and use your dollars wisely.

Let KD Landscape help. A knowledgeable service provider will offer options that help you do the right things for your property within your budget and timeline.

We can help keep you abreast of the best options and any impacts so that the expertise and outcome are positive and beneficial for your business.

Want to learn more about our commercial landscape services in Greater Chicago? Get started today with an on-site consultation. We’ll review your options together so you can feel confident and make a great choice.

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