Reasons to choose timber bollards for streetscapes and community space

Reconnecting with nature through outdoor experiences can be therapeutic, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. However, public spaces and streetscapes require careful planning and design to ensure safety, accessibility, and visual appeal. Among the various features that can be added to these spaces, hardwood timber bollards stand out as a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice. These sturdy, vertical posts are strategically placed to control vehicular access, protect pedestrian areas, and enhance the overall charm of public spaces.

But why should you choose timber over the metal alternatives? Here’s why bollards made from timber might be the best option for your next urban project.

Aesthetic benefits

Wooden bollards offer a natural and visually appealing solution for streetscapes and community spaces. Their warm, organic textures and earthy tones seamlessly blend into natural environments, creating a harmonious connection between the built and natural worlds. For instance, 150mm timber bollards are a popular choice for their balanced proportions, offering both a visually pleasing design and robust functionality. In urban settings, these bollards complement various architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary, adding rustic charm and softening the harsh lines of concrete and steel.

In contrast, metal bollards can often appear cold and industrial, disrupting the visual flow of a space. While serving a functional purpose, their rigid and uniform appearance may detract from the overall aesthetic appeal.

One advantage of wooden bollards is their versatility. They can showcase the beauty of the natural wood grain or be painted or stained to match specific themes or branding requirements. This flexibility allows designers to create cohesive and visually appealing streetscapes that reflect the unique character of a community or establishment.

Customisation and branding

Wooden bollards offer a unique opportunity for customisation, allowing brands and communities the chance to create a visual and meaningful impression in public spaces. Unlike metal bollards with their uniform and impersonal appearance, wooden bollards can be engraved with intricate designs, logos, or motifs reflecting the identity and character of a particular establishment or locality.

These engravings range from simple text or symbols to elaborate artistic patterns, providing a canvas for creative expression and storytelling. Bollards can also incorporate printed inserts or inlays, further enhancing their visual appeal and allowing for the integration of specific branding elements or community-inspired artwork.

Moreover, the bollards can be designed with removable ground sockets or even as collapsible removable bollards, enabling the installation of temporary or seasonal displays, artistic installations, or interactive elements that engage the public and foster a sense of community pride and ownership. This flexibility allows for dynamic and ever-changing streetscapes that adapt to different events, celebrations, or cultural narratives.

Environmental benefits

Timber bollards offer a sustainable and eco-conscious alternative to metal options, contributing to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of carbon emissions. Using timber in construction has been recognised as an effective way to mitigate the environmental impact of urban development. Notably, approximately 25% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the built environment, making material choices critical in addressing climate concerns.

Especially engineered wood products, like oak bollards, serve as a carbon store, trapping carbon dioxide that would otherwise contribute to atmospheric pollution. Studies show that larger buildings constructed from engineered timber can store up to 400% more carbon compared to those built with concrete, demonstrating the material’s immense potential for emissions reduction. When applied to bollards, this principle extends to smaller-scale projects, ensuring streetscapes and public spaces align with broader sustainability goals.

Safe and practical design

The strategic placement of bollards can significantly enhance the safety and accessibility of public spaces. Here’s how:

Street safety

In enhancing street safety, these bollards provide physical barriers that protect pedestrians from vehicular traffic. For example, wooden bollards with reflectors enhance visibility during low-light conditions, ensuring drivers can identify restricted areas or pedestrian zones more effectively. Their sturdy construction and strategic placement help delineate pedestrian zones, ensuring a clear separation between walkways and roadways. This not only reduces the risk of accidental collisions but also creates a sense of security for individuals navigating busy urban areas.

Traffic control

Bollards are effective traffic control devices that guide vehicular movement and regulate access to specific areas. Strategically positioned, they prevent unauthorised entry, control parking, and direct traffic patterns, promoting order and safety. This is crucial in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as town centres, shopping districts, or public plazas, where separating pedestrians and vehicles is essential for safety.

Public space demarcation

Bollards serve several purposes beyond their primary safety and traffic control functions. They effectively demarcate public spaces, defining boundaries and creating designated areas for specific activities or pedestrian-only zones. This organised approach enhances the functionality of public spaces while fostering a sense of community ownership and pride. By clearly delineating the intended use of different areas, bollards made from timber contribute to creating inclusive and welcoming environments for all.

Conclusion

Timber bollards provide a versatile, aesthetically appealing, and environmentally-friendly solution for enhancing streetscapes and public spaces. Their natural beauty and customisation potential, coupled with their role in promoting safety and sustainability, seamlessly blend functionality and design. By incorporating these bollards, communities can create inviting spaces that align with environmental goals while serving practical purposes.

At Made by Landmark, we specialise in crafting high-quality, customisable bollards designed to meet diverse community needs. Let us help you bring your next urban project to life with solutions that combine functionality and timeless appeal. Contact us today to explore your options.