The value of yard design in housing companies
A beautiful and functional yard improves the value of the property and the well-being of the residents. A well-designed yard also lasts over time and serves residents in different life situations.
Coordinating the wishes of the residents creates a comfortable space. Yard design is needed when
- The company is carrying out other renovation projects that require opening up yard structures.
- Rainwater causes problems/risks of problems
- The walkways are no longer safe.
- The use or needs of the yard have changed
- The vegetation is overgrown and impossible to maintain.
- The surfaces are worn and the overall appearance is untidy.
- Maintenance is expensive and difficult
- Waste bins no longer fit in their original locations and several sorting bins are drifting in areas that do not belong to them.
- The want to prepare for the future
Functionality and comfort for the courtyards of housing companies
The most important thing when designing shared courtyards is functionality, which takes into account the changed demands placed on courtyards – both in terms of climate, regulations and residents. No matter how beautiful the courtyard is, its functionality, for example in terms of bicycle parking, water control or waste sorting, is ultimately the most meaningful experience for the resident.
Parking needs have changed as cars have become more electric and larger. Many housing companies want to offer residents the opportunity to charge electric cars. At the very least, preparations are made for the installation of charging systems when excavating yards.
As the climate changes, slowing down water and proper control on the site have become increasingly important. When planning is done in collaboration structural-,HVAC– and electrical engineers. With our own team, we can develop solutions in a multidisciplinary manner right from the draft stage.
Safe access routes are key
A good walkway guides the traveler to the right place, its surface is easy on the feet and can be maintained even in winter.
Lighting walkways during dark seasons significantly improves safety. Research has shown that good lighting creates safety by its mere existence, as it prevents damage and reduces the presence of unauthorized persons. Good yard lighting is pleasing to the eyes and aimed according to its purpose, avoiding directing light into surrounding homes.
It would be best to clearly separate roadways from pedestrian areas, and special attention should be paid to visibility at intersections.
In urban areas, restricting and controlling access with fences and lockable gates can be important safety factors that should be considered in planning.
Accessibility in common courtyard areas
Functional access routes that take into account different residents increase the functionality of the area. Accessibility benefits everyone, not only people with disabilities, but also families with children and strollers. By taking care of accessibility, we also prepare for the future; we will all grow old at some point.
Yard design to increase coziness and community
The courtyards of housing companies are increasingly expected to have functions that increase comfort. In addition to practical needs, various seating areas are an important part of courtyard design. Seating groups, canopies, summer kitchens, urban gardens and playgrounds are placed in the courtyards. The efficient and correct placement of waste collection points is also important.
When measuring amenity, green environments are always rated as the most pleasant. Living environments and plants also affect everyone’s physical, measurable health. Therefore, it is worth investing in the greenery of your own yard, especially in urban areas. A greener and more diverse urban environment is one of the development goals of cities, and respecting these values makes the permit processes for yard changes easier.
In the best case scenario, a yard increases community spirit. When neighbors meet each other, community spirit is created.
Jenni Määttä , interior architect and garden designer, jenni.maatta@sweco.fi