City Beautification - Considerations for Planning and Development

City Beautification - Considerations for Planning and Development

Posted by Janet Kirkpatrick on Feb 1st 2024

The City Beautiful Movement was a reform philosophy that emerged in the United States during the late 19th century and early 20th century. This movement sought to improve the quality of life in rapidly growing urban areas by promoting beautification, civic pride, and efficient city planning. It was a response to the negative consequences of industrialization and urbanization, such as overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions, as well as the lack of green spaces and aesthetically pleasing urban environment.


In recent years, city beautification has evolved to encompass "green" infrastructure to reduce stormwater run-off, improve air quality, and lessen heat island effects, incorporating elements such as rain gardens, bio-swales, planter boxes, green roofs, permeable paving and tree plantings.

City Beautification

Key features of the City Beautiful movement include:

1. Beautification of Cities: The movement emphasized the importance of creating visually appealing urban environments. This involved the construction of grand boulevards, parks, and civic buildings that showcased architectural beauty and design.


2. Civic Pride: City Beautiful advocates believed that beautiful cities would instill a sense of civic pride and encourage citizens to engage in community life. They thought that by creating aesthetically pleasing public spaces, people would develop a stronger connection to their city.


3. Urban Planning: The movement promoted comprehensive urban planning to address the chaotic and often unplanned growth of cities. This included zoning regulations, street layouts, and the creation of open spaces for recreational purposes.


4. Monumental Architecture: City Beautiful proponents favored monumental architecture that reflected classical and neoclassical styles. Grand public buildings, statues, and monuments were seen as symbols of civic virtue and cultural progress.


5. Green Spaces: The movement emphasized the importance of incorporating green spaces, parks, and gardens into the urban landscape. Frederick Law Olmsted, a prominent landscape architect, played a significant role in promoting the integration of nature into city planning.


6. Order and Harmony: City Beautiful advocates believed that well-designed cities would promote order and harmony, both aesthetically and socially. They sought to counter the perceived chaos and disorganization of rapidly growing industrial cities.

Lamppost Hayrack for city poles

Below: Colorful display of planters enlivens a small city park; Above: Lamppost Hayrack adds charm to a suburban street

Hayrack style planters
Back to back window hayracks soften the fencing of an enclosed park area - who would not want to spend time here?  Such plantings inspire confidence and a feeling of safety within the community, which translates to increased traffic for nearby businesses. Color abounds in both the plants and blue fencing and benches. Walking along you are sure to smell the fragrance of the plantings. This small garden touches on so many positives, from the shade the large tree offers to the delightful engagement of the senses of passersby, benefiting residents, tourists, and the local economy.

Considerations when developing a Beautification Project

1. Community Involvement:

    - Involve the local community in the decision-making process. Seek input, feedback, and ideas from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders.

    - Conduct public meetings, surveys, or workshops to gather opinions and preferences.


2. Sustainability:

    - Incorporate sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in beautification efforts. Use native plants, eco-friendly materials, and energy-efficient lighting.

    - Consider long-term maintenance and ensure that the chosen elements are durable and require minimal upkeep.


3. Preservation of Cultural Heritage:

    - Preserve and highlight cultural and historical landmarks. Incorporate elements that celebrate the city's identity and heritage.

    - Collaborate with local artists and craftsmen to integrate cultural expressions into the urban landscape.


4. Maintenance Plan:

    - Develop a comprehensive maintenance plan to ensure that the beautified areas remain well-kept and attractive over time.

    - Involve the community in ongoing maintenance efforts to create a sense of ownership.


5. Accessibility:

    - Ensure that beautification projects enhance accessibility for all residents, including those with disabilities.

    - Plan for pedestrian-friendly spaces, accessible pathways, and public transportation options.


6. Artistic Expression:

    - Encourage public art installations and murals to add vibrancy and creativity to the cityscape.

    - Support local artists and cultural initiatives to showcase a diverse range of artistic expressions.


Pitfalls when planning and implementing Beautification Projects


1. Neglecting Maintenance:

    - Don't neglect long-term maintenance considerations. Failing to plan for upkeep can result in the deterioration of beautified areas.


2. Ignoring Local Input:

    - Don't disregard the opinions and preferences of the local community. Failing to involve residents may lead to dissatisfaction with the final outcomes.


3. Overlooking the Environmental Impact:

    - Don't undertake projects that harm the environment or deplete natural resources. Consider the ecological impact of landscaping and construction materials.


4. Excessive Commercialization:

    - Don't over-commercialize public spaces to the detriment of the overall aesthetic and cultural value. Maintain a balance between commercial and public interests.


5. Disregarding Cultural Heritage:

    - Don't disregard or overshadow existing cultural and historical landmarks. Instead, integrate beautification efforts to complement and enhance these elements.


6. Lack of Diversity:

    - Don't focus on a singular aesthetic or theme without considering the diverse preferences and needs of the community. Strive for inclusivity in design choices.


Fiberglass Trough Planters
The fiberglass planters above create a perimeter along the water feature and allow for plantings that can be swapped out for the seasons. This is an effective yet attractive way to direct pedestrian traffic, either temporarily or permanently.


An often overlooked solution to downtown revitalization


Trees can significantly enhance the quality of downtown areas and contribute to creating a more vibrant and livable urban environment.  Trees add natural beauty to the urban landscape, softening the harsh lines of buildings and pavement. The presence of greenery creates a visually pleasing and inviting atmosphere and plays a crucial role in purifying the air by absorbing pollutants such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. They release oxygen during photosynthesis, contributing to cleaner and fresher air in downtown areas.


Urban areas often experience the heat island effect due to the concentration of buildings and pavement. Trees provide shade and help regulate temperatures by reducing heat absorption and providing cooling through the process of transpiration. The foliage of trees can act as a natural sound barrier, helping to absorb and deflect noise from traffic and other urban activities. This contributes to a quieter and more peaceful downtown environment.


Well-placed trees can create shaded areas for people to gather, relax, and socialize. Urban parks and green spaces with trees provide residents and visitors with opportunities for recreation and community engagement.  Trees create habitats for birds, insects, and other small wildlife. The presence of urban greenery supports biodiversity, fostering a more ecologically balanced and sustainable downtown ecosystem.


Access to nature has been linked to improved mental health and well-being. Trees in downtown areas offer residents and workers a chance to connect with nature, reducing stress and enhancing overall quality of life. Trees help manage stormwater runoff by absorbing rainwater and reducing the risk of flooding. Their root systems also contribute to stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.


A tree-lined streetscape can make walking more pleasant and comfortable. This contributes to a more pedestrian-friendly downtown, encouraging people to explore the area on foot. Streets lined with trees have been associated with increased property values. The aesthetic and environmental benefits of trees can make an area more desirable, attracting businesses, residents, and investors.


How We Can Help


Whether your beautification project involves a small town main street, a public park, or an entire city business district, we can guide you in selecting products that will meet your needs.  We offer commercial grade hanging baskets and brackets, lamppost baskets, and planters including large tree planters and self-watering styles; steel arbors, arches, obelisks and pillars, gazebos and pavilions; topiary (including custom topiary), and statuary.  Discount pricing structures are available for cities and universities as well as designers and landscapers.  We are happy to provide pricing and shipping quotes at your request.


Commercial Hanging Baskets:


Commercial Brackets:

  • SPB18: Decorative black sturdy steel bracket uses your own banding hardware and hangs one basket. 2 may be installed on either side of pole to hang 2 baskets per pole.
  • LPB40: Sturdy steel, black, fits 5-7 inch diameter poles. LPB40S is a single style that holds one basket per pole.  LPB40D is a double style that hangs 2 baskets per pole.
  • KC82:  Gas Lamp Style Double Bracket, fits 3-4 inch poles and hangs 2 baskets per pole.


Commercial Lamppost Hayracks:

  • LPH25: 25" diameter basket fits around 5-7 inch poles, one 1/2 basket on each side. Black poly-coated steel.
  • GLPH25: Molded coco liner for LPH25 lamppost basket consists of one pair of 1/2 basket liners. Minimum 10mm thickness; molded with latex.
  • LPH18: 18" diameter basket fits around 2-3 inch poles, one 1/2 basket on each side.   Black poly-coated steel. We have found these work well for smaller towns with narrower lampposts (but please always measure).
  • GLPH18: Molded coco liner for LPH18 lamppost basket consists of one pair of 1/2 basket liners. Minimum 10mm thickness; molded with latex.


Large Planters - Tree Planters:

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