THE CHALLENGE

Twelve Acres, Many Microclimates, and One Big Request

Located on 12 acres with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline, Woodfield Corporate Center has been serving tenants since 2007. Business was good, but General Manager Edie Scurto knew it could be better.  

In 2009, she contacted us to help her make Woodfield's grounds more appealing and also more environmentally sustainable - no small feat given that the property has several microclimates, rooftop gardens, a pond, and walking trails.

THE SOLUTION

Re-Plan, Re-Think for More Efficiency, Better Conservation

Working closely with Scurto, we developed a plan of action to implement more sustainable practices property-wide, including the use of mulching mowers, compost, and organic fertilizers. Invasive species were removed and waste was diverted to a composting center. To reduce water use, our irrigation expert did an irrigation audit and improvements were made to the existing system one section at a time. The watering schedule was modified for less waste, flowerbeds were made smaller, and xeriscaping and native plants were added to keep the aesthetic level high and water consumption low. 

Our team also manages the pond, which feeds into a nearby forest preserve, and with runoff in mind, used a predominately organic turf program. The pond water is treated to reduce algae and other invasive weeds while ensuring the health of fish and other pond life. Turf mowing is done in a specified pattern to reduce the amount of organic matter that would normally get into the water and thus require additional treatments. 

A green roof of sedum, planted and maintained by our team, reduces the heat radiating from Woodfield's underground parking structure. The addition of living walls on the structure helps reduce heat transfer and regulates the temperature on the concrete, extending the life of the structure and keeping the interior courtyard cooler for tenants to enjoy. 

THE OUTCOME

Newly Sustainable Landscaping Reaps Awards, Draws Tenants

Through collaboration and innovative thinking, our team and Woodfield's property management company have created an award-winning sustainable landscape with great curb appeal. 

Woodfield has won seven awards in the last five years, including the 2014 Gold Award for Excellence in Sustainable Landscape Maintenance from the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, and another award for Best Maintained Landscape from the Village of Schaumburg, where Woodfield, along with many other Class-A office buildings, is located.  

Scurto was pleased with the work. She noted, "The landscaping is key to setting the impression for what lies behind the doors. As a result of the new landscape and the awards, brokers are taking notice, which definitely improves our occupancy rates."

Making more sustainable choices for your landscape can have a positive impact on the environment, those who use or live on your property, your landscape crew, and your budget. 

Here are a just a few reasons to go green:

• Reduced labor, water, and fertilizer costs and lower hauling expenses and disposal fees thanks to composting, mulching, and recycling.


• Less exposure to workmen's compensation claims as a result of crew lifting heavy loads of plant material.


• Grasscycling (a mowing method that results in natural recycling of grass clippings), composting, and mulching return valuable organic material to the soil, which in turn increases the soil's water-holding capacity, reduces erosion, and conserves water.


• Proper watering, fertilizing, and pruning, along with integrated pest management practices, encourage healthier, disease-resistant plants and reduce the amount of toxic run-off entering storm drains and polluting watershed, creeks, lakes, and rivers.


• Making more organic choices in landscaping products and fertilizers reduces the amount of chemical exposure to maintenance crews and those who work, live, or play on or near your property.


• Working with experts and doing a Sustainability Audit can help create a strategic, cost-efficient approach focused on long-term benefits.


• In addition, LEED®-certified consultants can help you ensure best practices for any landscape/hardscaping initiatives you undertake and help you earn your LEED credits.

The benefits add up, not to mention the social and consumer response to your efforts. People are noticing brands that go green, according to Nielson, and they are willing to pay up for more sustainable options. So, when you’re planning your budget for your next project or fiscal year, consider greener possibilities.