The Blog

Public plazas are more than open spaces—they’re dynamic extensions of the urban environment that foster connection, commerce, and culture. Whether serving as a venue for farmers’ markets, public art, casual meetups, or outdoor dining, these civic spaces shape how people interact with their city. Designing a successful modern plaza requires thoughtful integration of both form and function, where every element—from …

Rooftop gardens are no longer just trendy design features—they’re becoming essential assets for urban buildings seeking to maximize space, sustainability, and value. In densely populated cities where every square foot counts, roof gardens transform underutilized surfaces into vibrant, functional environments that offer far more than curb appeal. With innovations in lightweight materials like resin planters and modular furnishings, creating and …

Maintaining vibrant, healthy greenery in urban environments comes with challenges—especially when dealing with extreme temperatures, limited watering access, and budget constraints. For cities, businesses, and property managers already invested in existing planters, the idea of replacing them with entirely new self-watering models might seem like the only way out. But with TerraCast®’s modular self-watering reservoir system, there’s a smarter and …

Public safety is a cornerstone of successful urban design. From busy sidewalks to school courtyards and transit hubs, every detail in a public space plays a role in creating environments that are not only functional but also secure. While much attention is given to lighting, surveillance, and emergency access, the design and materials of everyday site furnishings—like benches, planters, and …

Urban infrastructure is built to last—but not all materials stand the test of time. For decades, metal street fixtures such as benches, light pole bases, and planters have been staples in cityscapes across the country. While they offer strength and a sleek aesthetic, the long-term costs of corrosion, maintenance, and environmental exposure have become increasingly difficult for cities to ignore. …

As cities continue to grow and become denser, the phenomenon known as the urban heat island effect has become an increasingly pressing challenge. Buildings, roads, and hardscape materials absorb and retain heat, making urban environments significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. In the effort to cool down city spaces, planners and municipalities are turning to smarter design strategies—including the selection …

When most people think of planters in the urban landscape, they picture sidewalk medians, park perimeters, or café-lined streets. But today’s architects, designers, and city planners are increasingly pushing the boundaries of traditional landscaping—bringing resin planters into unexpected and elevated environments across rooftops, building facades, parking structures, and more. Thanks to their lightweight design, structural durability, and visual versatility, resin …

As cities grow and evolve, the importance of creating spaces that serve everyone—regardless of age, ability, or mobility—is more vital than ever. Inclusive public space design goes beyond aesthetics. It ensures that parks, plazas, sidewalks, and transit hubs are functional, safe, and welcoming for all. From the layout of a park bench to the height of a planter, small design …

Public transportation hubs serve as essential gateways for commuters, connecting people to work, shopping, and recreational destinations. However, many transit stations, bus stops, and terminals are often designed with functionality in mind, neglecting the aesthetics and comfort that can greatly enhance the passenger experience. By incorporating resin planters and furniture, cities can create more inviting, visually appealing, and durable public …

Public spaces are essential components of thriving cities, serving as gathering spots for communities, cultural events, and everyday social interactions. However, ensuring safety and security in these spaces is an increasing priority for municipalities and urban planners. Traditional security measures, such as metal barriers, concrete bollards, and fences, often detract from the aesthetic appeal of urban areas, making public spaces …