It plays a pivotal role in commercial landscaping, creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor areas for people to enjoy within various sectors, including:
- local authorities
- housebuilders and developers
- retail and business parks
- historic buildings and heritage sites
- sports and leisure facilities
- healthcare
- education
The focus is to create visually appealing areas that can handle a high volume of traffic, require little maintenance and delivers on functionality. Achieving this balance can be challenging, and this is where a specialist surfacing contractor can help.
In this article, we will discuss:
- The role of a commercial surfacing contractor in hard landscaping
- Resin paving in commercial landscaping
- The difference between resin bound and bonded paving
- Alternative resin paving solutions
- Main entrances, outdoor seating areas and car park ideas
- Patios, courtyards and recreational space ideas
- Footpath, cycle routes and bridleway ideas
- Children’s play areas, education and leisure facilities
The Role of a Commercial Surfacing Contractor in Hard Landscaping
Commercial surfacing contractors play a crucial role in executing and delivering the finished results of landscaping projects. By delivering expertly installed surfacing solutions, their work creates a well-structured, functional, and visually appealing commercial environment that serves businesses and the public alike.
Specialising in resin-based paving solutions, HMS Decorative Surfacing installs commercial paving solutions for a variety of sectors, helping businesses create outdoor areas that are both functional and visually appealing. Before exploring our commercial landscaping ideas, let’s briefly highlight the benefits of our resin-based surfacing solutions.
Resin Paving in Commercial Landscaping
Resin paving is a durable and versatile surfacing solution that uses natural aggregates with a high-performance resin binder. It is durable, hardwearing, long-lasting, and low-maintenance, and it can withstand heavy footfall without compromising an area’s aesthetics.
The Difference Between Resin Bound and Bonded Paving
Resin bound paving combines natural stone or gravel with UV-stable resin, resulting in a smooth, permeable surface with the strength of concrete and the visual appeal of natural stone. Resin bonded paving also uses high-performance resin and natural stone or gravel, but the application process differs slightly. The resin is first applied directly to the surface and the stone is then scattered on top. The result is a slip-resistant surface that mimics the appearance of loose gravel or stone while preventing weed growth and minimising stone migration.
Alternative Resin Paving Solutions
Thanks to its durable, low-maintenance and flexible properties, resin paving has surged in popularity. This has led to two new solutions emerging to meet diverse landscaping needs including flexible rubber and aggregate paving and EPDM wet-pour safety surfacing.
Flexible rubber and aggregate paving combines recycled rubber granules with resin and natural gravel to create a durable, shock-absorbing surface, perfect for bridleways, cycle routes and public footpaths. What’s more, its porous nature also allows for effective drainage to groundwater sources, reducing surface water runoff and flooding.
EPDM wet pour safety surfacing, on the other hand, is designed specifically for high-impact areas where safety is a priority, such as children’s playgrounds, sports facilities and educational settings. Made from Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber granules bound with resin, it provides excellent shock absorption, reducing the risk of injury from falls and meeting stringent safety standards.
Both solutions offer functionality, are durable and low maintenance, while still providing aesthetically pleasing results for both public and commercial spaces.
Main entrances, driveways and car park ideas
Hollywood Bowl’s car park footpath demarcation
HMS joined forces with Conways to complete a vibrant car park demarcation project for Hollywood Bowl, installing a striking bright blue resin bonded footpath. The bold colour was chosen to create clear and highly visible footpaths, enhancing pedestrian safety and improving navigation within the car park.
This visually distinct solution provides a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics, guiding visitors safely from parking areas to the entertainment venue. What’s more, the resin bonded surface offers exceptional durability and a slip-resistant finish, making it ideal for high-traffic environments.
By incorporating this eye-catching and practical feature, Hollywood Bowl has enhanced both the safety and overall experience for its visitors.
Main entrance, footpaths and car park
David Lloyd in Rugby partnered with HMS to install high-quality resin bound paving in oyster pearl and cappuccino tones across key areas, including the main entrance, car park and spa. The carefully selected colour palette not only enhanced the visual appeal of the site but also created a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for members and visitors alike.
The resin bound paving was chosen for its aesthetic appeal and its practical benefits, providing a smooth, durable and slip-resistant surface that can withstand heavy footfall. At the main entrance, the elegant oyster pearl finish creates a sophisticated first impression, while the warm cappuccino tone in the spa area adds a calming atmosphere that aligns perfectly with this environment. What’s more, the car park’s surface design ensures a clean, modern look with clearly defined footpaths to guide users safely.
Enhancing shared driveways at a Morris Homes development
In collaboration with ECL Civil Engineering, HMS enhanced and transformed 800m² of shared access driveways with resin bonded paving at the Morris Homes development in Wintringham. This large-scale project was part of ongoing efforts to elevate the functionality and aesthetic appeal for residents.
Car park and communal seating areas in Kent
Victoria Point Apartments in Kent opted for HMS’s steel grey resin bound paving to craft visually appealing communal gardens for residents. The paving seamlessly complemented other hard landscaping elements, including wooden fencing, decking areas, functional seating and lighting. The result was a beautifully designed and inviting outdoor space for residents to enjoy.
Additionally, the car park was finished with a combination of steel grey and amber gold resin bound paving, creating a visually appealing footpath demarcation. This design not only enhances functionality by clearly guiding pedestrian traffic but also adds an attractive visual element to the space.
Car park demarcation for Asda’s Click and Collect service
HMS completed a car park demarcation project for Asda’s Click and Collect service, utilising resin bonded surfacing in a striking bright blue. The bold and vibrant colour was chosen to create clear and highly visible collection zones, ensuring that customers could easily navigate the parking area and identify designated spaces for Asda’s Click and Collect service. This not only enhanced the overall customer experience but also improved traffic flow and minimised confusion in a busy retail area.
Patios, courtyards and recreational space ideas
Improving access to communal gardens for patients
HMS was honoured to contribute to the Hayward House garden renovation project, installing stunning resin bound paving in Riverbed to improve access for patients and their families, allowing them to fully enjoy the beautiful surrounding gardens.
The carefully selected Riverbed colour provided a natural and calming aesthetic, seamlessly blending with the landscape and surrounding environment. As a centrepiece of the design, a striking compass feature in autumn quartz added a unique artistic touch, creating a visual focal point that enhanced the garden’s character.
Communal garden, patio and seating areas
HMS successfully completed a project at Care UK’s Oak House care home in Slough, where the team installed high-quality resin bound paving in Dorset Gold. This attractive and durable surface was carefully chosen to enhance the communal gardens, providing a warm and inviting environment for residents to enjoy.
The resin bound finish offers a smooth yet slip-resistant surface, prioritising health and safety by reducing the risk of slips and trips, an essential consideration for care home environments.
Recreational outdoor space at Next head office
HMS had the privilege of enhancing the recreational outdoor space at Next PLC’s Head Office in Enderby with high-quality resin bound paving in Alpine Piste. The crisp and contemporary colour was chosen to complement the modern architecture and natural surroundings, creating an inviting and stylish environment for employees to relax and socialise.
Cannock Chase Council-funded initiative
Last year, HMS was proud to play a key role in a Cannock Chase Council-funded initiative aimed at promoting bike safety for children! Working in collaboration with Dawkes & Co, we installed high-quality resin bonded surfacing to simulate realistic road demarcation at a purpose-built, off-street cycling facility.
This thoughtful design creates a safe, engaging and educational environment where young cyclists can learn essential road safety skills in a controlled setting. HMS was proud to support the next generation of cyclists and contribute to fostering a culture of safe and confident cycling in the community.
Enhancing footpaths and village green at Barratt Homes development
We laid an impressive 1,200 m² of resin bonded paving as part of the hard landscaping solution for this growing community including the footpaths and village green area.
The choice of resin bonded surfacing was deliberate, providing a durable, low-maintenance solution that offers excellent slip resistance while seamlessly blending with the surrounding natural and architectural landscape.
These newly paved pathways are designed to handle regular foot traffic, ensuring a safe and attractive environment for residents to walk, exercise and connect with neighbours.
The village green, a central gathering space for the development, now boasts a refreshed, polished look thanks to the smooth and resilient finish of the resin bonded paving. The result is a modern, functional and visually appealing communal area that will be a focal point for outdoor activities and events for years to come.
Footpath, cycle routes and bridleway ideas
Enhancing the Grand Union Canal path accessibility for all users
HMS in collaboration with O’Hara Bros. Surfacing, has completed the installation of resin bonded paving along a section of the Grand Union Canal towpath. This upgrade enhances accessibility for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, ensuring the path remains safe and functional in all weather conditions.
The resin bonded surface was specifically chosen for its durability, low maintenance, and excellent grip, making it ideal for a variety of activities, while seamlessly blending with the natural beauty of the canal surroundings.
By improving the towpath’s resilience and usability, this project not only promotes healthier outdoor lifestyles but also supports the local community’s access to one of Uxbridge’s cherished natural landmarks.
Oxford’s cycle network
Our ongoing collaboration with ODS saw us lay high friction resin bonded surfacing to expand Oxford’s cycle network. The forward-thinking infrastructure project was approved by Oxford City Council in early 2024 as part of its initiative to encourage more sustainable travel and reduce car dependency. These upgraded cycle routes are a key step in making Oxford a safer, greener and more accessible place for cyclists.
Stunning footpaths for Chatsworth House
These stunning resin bonded footpaths in Amber Gold were installed on the grounds in and around the Chatsworth Estate and iconic sculpture gardens. The carefully selected resin bonded paving is a vital part of Chatsworth’s ongoing dedication to preserve its historic charm while enhancing the visitor experience. The Amber Gold hue seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape and complements the distinctive stonework of Chatsworth House itself.
New outdoor gym and playground
Bellway Homes approached us to lay EPDM rubber mulch surfacing for an outdoor gym area and playground for a development in Colchester. This vibrant and durable surfacing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the recreational space but also prioritises safety by providing impact-absorbing properties that conform to critical fall height standards.
The rubber mulch surface is designed to withstand heavy use while maintaining its appearance and performance throughout the seasons, making it the perfect solution for areas where families and fitness enthusiasts gather to play and exercise.
Children’s play areas, education and leisure facilities
Transforming NWSL College in Nuneaton on-site nursery
We installed vibrant blue EPDM wet pour surfacing to create a colourful and impact-absorbing surface provided a safe and stimulating environment for the on-site nursery at NWSL College in Nuneaton.
In addition to its safety benefits, the vibrant design adds a cheerful touch to the nursery environment, sparking creativity and making outdoor play even more enjoyable.
David Bowie tribute on Beckenham High Street
EPDM surfacing isn’t just for playgrounds, it’s making art and history come to life right on Beckenham High Street! We were thrilled to collaborate with FM Conway on a creative and iconic project to transform the famous David Bowie lightning bolt outside the historic Three Tuns Pub (now Zizzi’s), a landmark where Bowie famously launched his music career.
This bold and vibrant makeover brings a fitting tribute to the Starman himself, blending artistic expression with practical surfacing innovation. To achieve a durable and visually striking finish, we laid a robust 70mm layer of porous resin-bound paving combined with 30mm of EPDM safety surfacing using a UV-stable resin binder. This combination not only offers long-term resilience but also ensures shock-absorbing properties and vibrant colour retention, allowing this legendary tribute to withstand weather, foot traffic, and the passage of time.
A fresh look for Audrey House at Kingsway Hospital in Derby
HMS successfully enhanced the outdoor recreational spaces at Audrey House, delivering a combination of safety, style and durability to elevate the facility’s environment for patients, visitors and staff alike.
To promote safety and usability, we installed high-quality EPDM safety surfacing in two key recreational areas. This vibrant and impact-absorbing material is ideal for outdoor spaces, providing a secure and comfortable surface that cushions falls and ensures year-round functionality.
In addition to the safety upgrades, we transformed two further outdoor areas using sleek and durable resin bound paving. Chosen for its seamless and modern appearance, this low-maintenance surfacing provides excellent drainage and slip resistance, making it both practical and visually appealing. The resin-bound finish seamlessly complements the refreshed architecture, creating inviting and functional spaces for relaxation and activity.
Spa area at a new David Lloyd in Rugby
HMS played a key role hard landscaping the spa, communal areas and entrance at the new David Lloyd leisure centre in Rugby. The spa area was a particular highlight, where the elegant resin bound paving not only provided a visually stunning finish but also offered practical benefits such as excellent drainage, slip resistance and low maintenance, all essential for a busy wellness environment.
The smooth and permeable surface was designed to withstand high foot traffic while ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for visitors as they moved between spa areas and relaxation spaces.
Our expert team installed a flawless finish on time and to the highest standard. The result was a sophisticated, functional and long-lasting paving solution that perfectly matched the luxury ambience David Lloyd is renowned for.
As you can see from our project portfolio, resin paving is an incredibly versatile paving solution for hard landscaping that creates amazing finishes for landscaped areas. It provides a durable, hardwearing, long-lasting and low-maintenance surface that can withstand heavy footfall and continue looking great for years.
