Frequent and intense weather events are dominating our news feeds, forcing all of us to carefully consider how landscaping strategies can contribute to a project’s overall performance and resiliency. This is why understanding Low Impact Development (LID) strategies, and how to employ them, is so critical.
A decentralized, nature-based approach like LID works best when it follows a few simple but powerful principles that restore the natural flow of water. Two solutions that can help landscape professionals put LID principles into practice are porous paving systems and underground water containment systems. When incorporated into new construction, retrofitted alongside older systems, or coupled with traditional “gray infrastructure,” these LID solutions can help resolve recurring drainage and maintenance challenges, preserve usable site space and support long-term project performance.
The most effective LID strategies layer complementary solutions
While porous pavers and underground water containment systems are incredibly valuable on their own, the most effective LID strategies layer solutions for maximum performance. Meaning, rainfall can seep into the ground where it falls through a porous paver rather than becoming surface runoff, then move into an underground containment system for temporary storage or potential reuse. So, this could look like pairing Invisible Structures’ Grasspave2 or Gravelpave2 with Rainstore3. Together, these complementary solutions support LID principles by helping manage stormwater close to where it falls and in turn, preserving site functionality.
Putting this “layered” approach into practice can also support a project’s broader environmental goals, which is a priority for many clients. By improving how a property manages water, compatible LID solutions from Invisible Structures can help reduce recurring maintenance needs, preserve usable site space, support evolving stormwater requirements and contribute to corporate sustainability initiatives.
Future-proofing a project
Ultimately, LID provides an opportunity to thoughtfully consider how stormwater management solutions like porous pavers and underground water containment systems can help improve site functionality. After all, the goal of any project isn’t just to create a good-looking landscape—it’s to make strategic improvements that help protect the long-term functionality and performance of the project.
To learn more about putting LID strategies into practice, landscape planners and architects are invited to participate in Invisible Structures’ continuing education presentations.