A company can build a sustainable positive corporate image in a number of ways. In the business world, it can actually be the only dividing factor between one company and its competitors. One of the most effective ways is to present a working and business environment that speaks confidence, care and modernity, and commercial landscaping is one way to go about it.

When we think of landscaping, it is normal to think of the exterior landscaping that is done on the grounds of corporations and private residences, but for many companies there is also the interior landscaping option that can strategically reform the look of company offices and lobbies. In fact, it has grown to become an essential part of the commercial design concepts created by the leading office interior designers around the world.

It is easy to assume that interior and exterior landscaping may seem to be the same thing. That is true to an extent, with both methods involving the selection of plants, flowers, trees and other flora intended to create a desired impression. However, the key difference between the two is where the principal impact of either lies and, to that extent, the strategic strengths they have in contributing to the desired corporate image.

Since the exterior lies outdoors, the principal strength is visual, with colors, shapes and plant size all playing a role. In contrast, and despite the fact interior designs also make use of color, size and the clever use of plants within designs, the chief impact is psychological and emotional as it can impresses more effectively on the sense of smell than vision.

When it comes to the exterior of a building, the impact of smell is far less because wind can simply carry aromas away, not allowing them to linger. It is not the same as sitting in a garden, where a person can enjoy the scents that are swept around the enclosed area. Because the landscaped area is generally walked quickly through by arriving and departing clients, there is insufficient time to enjoy this sense.

However, when approaching the company premises it will be seen, and as such a statement, rather than a fragrance, is needed. Companies with a variety of mature trees and wild flowers state an sense of environmental responsibility or eco awareness. If the area is substantial, with the premises set back, it can also suggest a tranquility that relates to a commercial confidence on the part of the company.

For many manufacturing companies, a carefully designed floral representation of the company logo shows a preference for creative precision, and perhaps a certain degree of innovation.

Indeed, many companies favor landscaping designs that include patio or paved areas, benches and water features, creating a garden environment for their staff to enjoy as much as any visitors. This can promote a family feel amongst staff, encouraging them to interact and spend time with each other during their breaks, just as family members might do.

Of course, some of these aspects can be brought into the lobby area of an office building, provided there is enough room to accommodate trees, water features and benches. But while this may seem to be the same, the use is different with the indoor venue providing a completely different environment and, therefore, effect.

Plants tend to attract more attention when situated indoors, perhaps because of their unnatural location, and this is often used as an opportunity to show the company colors, culturally speaking. For example, a New Zealand company may feature native plants in their Washington office to maintain a cultural link with their country of origin. Similarly, they may include a celebrated local plant in order to show solidarity with its host nation or state.

Nevertheless, office interior designers will admit that bringing plants into a working space is as much to do with improving the working environment as beautifying the office itself. Studies have shown that plants in an office improve productivity, relationships between colleagues and can reduce absenteeism, while also vastly improving air quality by reducing toxins and increasing oxygen levels.

The overall image projected is one of professionalism, diligence and positivity, while the addition of air scenting helps to create a more lasting positive impression in the minds of visitors.

While interior landscaping is highly effective, it is not the only area of note, with exterior commercial landscaping providing an equally impressive impact. The two then combine to create the most complete corporate image possible.