When it comes to landscaping a commercial property, selecting the right paving solution is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re creating pathways through a university campus or adding aesthetic appeal to a retail park, the right choice of paving can make a significant difference. Here’s a friendly guide to paving commercial environments, considering safety, practicality, and the desired visuals.
Understanding Your Paving Needs
Every commercial property has unique requirements. Some of the top things to consider for each area of your commercial property that you pave include:
Level of Traffic
The level of traffic the paving will experience dictates material choice, paver thickness and even the laying style used. High-traffic areas require thick pavers and naturally dense materials, whereas in low-traffic areas, lighter slabs can be used.
Type of Traffic
Perhaps more important than the amount of traffic is the type. Foot traffic and bicycles exert much lower pressure on your paving material than a heavy vehicle. Large-format pavers are wonderful for walkways, recreational areas, and plazas. However, for car parks and public driveways, small-format block paving is thicker and denser to handle the weight.
Location of Paving
Looking at where your paving will be is important, as it involves assessing how exposed it will be to the elements. For example, is the paving likely to get wet? If so, permeable paving solutions such as natural stone or concrete pavers are an excellent choice for avoiding ice issues, especially when paired with an appropriate drainage solution.
Maintenance Needs
When evaluating the overall return on investment for your commercial paving, the time and resources spent on ongoing cleaning and maintenance should be factored into the equation. Porcelain paving is non-porous and stain-resistant, making it popular for commercial clients who want to reduce regular cleaning hours. Sweeping and washing with a porcelain cleaner solution is all that’s needed on a regular basis.
Natural stone paving can also be low-maintenance, especially when sealed every one to two years.
Environmental Goals
Many businesses are motivated to make sustainable choices, both in the day-to-day running of the business and in any major changes to their venue. Opting for a sustainable paving material is one way to remain committed to your company’s long-term ESG goals.
Natural stone pavers are particularly beneficial for sustainability, as they’re sourced directly from nature rather than manufactured. Porcelain, while man-made, is also a good choice for lower environmental impact as it uses natural clay. In addition, at RF, we work with green-thinking porcelain suppliers who aim to recover all water used and reduce waste.
Paving Recommendations Based on Commercial Property Type
1. Paving for University and College Campuses
A university campus is a place of learning and leisure. The walkways should be inviting yet durable, suitable for the daily hustle of students and staff. Opt for rectified natural stone pavers for an elegant yet practical environment. Consider anti-slip surfaces to ensure safety during wet weather. Textured porcelain and flamed granite are particularly advised for this.
Many universities and colleges take pride in their rich histories, along with beautiful historical buildings on campus. You can honour your institution’s history and architecture by coordinating paving for your beautiful building. For example, many historic university buildings are made from limestone or sandstone, so you can select fresh paving in the same stone type to match and highlight your campus’s signature locations.
2. Paving for Shopping Centres and Retail Parks
These spaces require paving solutions that can endure high traffic and still look pristine. Porcelain pavers are an excellent choice due to their durability and low maintenance. Select stones with an R11 slip rating to ensure shopper safety, and utilise colours that complement the retail park’s ambience. For areas with drainage needs, consider porous paving options such as sandstone or limestone, or add an aluminium drainage or aggregate border to non-porous paving.
For a sense of cohesion, try paving the exterior and interior of your shopping centre in the same style. This creates a premium, spacious and luxurious look. With our in and out paving range, we can lay lighter porcelain tiles indoors and thicker, sturdier tiles in the same pattern and colourway outdoors.
3. Paving for Office Parks and Industrial Spaces
For office parks, the paving should reflect professionalism and efficiency. Choose calibrated stones for a polished finish that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Industrial spaces may need bespoke solutions, with thicker pavers to support vehicular movement in car parks. The seamless integration of paving with the surrounding architecture can boost the overall aesthetic.
One option we recommend for a natural stone car park is flamed granite setts. This option combines thickness with natural durability and a strong grip surface. Laying the blocks in a herringbone pattern then increases this robustness by adding interlocking strength. Our guide to block paving expands on this further.
4. Paving for Public Parks and Green Spaces
Public parks are sanctuaries of tranquillity, requiring paving that blends with nature. Natural stone pavers in earthy tones can create a serene pathway, inviting visitors to stroll through. For park areas prone to water accumulation, ensure the paving solution includes adequate drainage.
Permeable paving options for strong drainage include sandstone and limestone, which are highly porous and provide excellent grip, too. Aggregate pathways are also an excellent choice for strong drainage.
5. Paving for Hotels and Luxury Venues
While ‘kerb appeal’ is essential for all commercial properties, it’s a key selling point for hotels, enhancing the luxury feel.
For pool areas and dining terraces, porcelain delivers a luxury look while providing slip resistance and ease of maintenance for staff. However, for old country hotels, natural stone patios might be preferred for afternoon teas and outdoor cocktails.
See our hotel paving guide for more landscaping advice in this sector.
6. Paving for Apartment Complexes
Apartment complexes are where commercial and residential paving rules meet. A shared garden space could include classic features of home garden paving, such as stepping stones or a luxury patio, while a car park might use granite or concrete block paving.
If you offer luxury or boutique flats, consider investing in in-and-out paving for the high-end feel. With an elegant porcelain-paved communal garden and porcelain-paved hallways to match, residents will always feel proud to call your complex home.
Interested in RF’s products for your commercial paving project? Contact us today to get started.
