Furnish Your Site

A beautiful setting automatically draws visitors, but if you want to create a place where the community can gather and enjoy some fun and recreation, you need to provide the right mix of furnishings.

Q: We'd like to create an inviting park site. What should we know?

A: Furnishing your site well will make your visitors more comfortable, encouraging them to return. Outfit spots as picnic areas with tables and receptacles, or place benches to provide a place to sit and rest, or enjoy a beautiful view.

Before you start furnishing your park, consider who uses it, who you'd like to use it, and the setting. Then choose the furnishings that best fit in with the site's aesthetic, while providing a place for the activities you envision there. You can choose from a variety of materials, colors and styles that will suit your needs.

Q: What types of furnishings should we add to our park?

A: It all depends on how you expect people to use your park. Place benches along trails and near playgrounds. Add picnic tables in a variety of locations and groupings. Place waste receptacles near picnic areas, as well as near entrances and parking areas. Park grills will add an extra attraction to your picnic spot.

You might also think about adding bleachers near sports fields to provide a comfortable view for spectators.

At your entrance, consider adding signs and kiosks to keep people in the know about events in your park or community. Bike racks and water fountains are also good additions near entrances and along trails. Planters can delineate entrances as well.

Q: What else should we know?

A: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your park site attractive and inviting. If your maintenance budget and staff is slim, consider harder-wearing materials like recycled plastic or steel.