Blending Beauty and Efficiency: Aesthetic Options of High-Rate Bioretention Systems

Civil engineers understand the delicate balance between form and function. High-rate bioretention systems, known for their efficiency in managing stormwater, offer an often overlooked benefit: aesthetics. Integrating visually appealing bioretention systems into urban landscapes can enhance community engagement, foster sustainability, and improve the overall perception of civil infrastructure.

Traditional stormwater solutions often prioritize performance over appearance. However, high-rate bioretention systems, when thoughtfully designed, can seamlessly blend utility with beauty. By incorporating lush vegetation, flowing water features, and naturalistic layouts, these systems transform utilitarian structures into vibrant green spaces. This dual-purpose approach provides effective water treatment while contributing to urban greening efforts, aligning with growing trends in sustainable city planning.

Beyond environmental benefits, aesthetically pleasing bioretention systems promote public acceptance and engagement. People are more likely to support and maintain infrastructure that they perceive as beneficial to their quality of life. Imagine a system that not only manages stormwater but also serves as a serene public park or a visually striking campus feature.

Below are some ideas of how engineers can combine functionality with visual appeal when designing high-rate bioretention systems. 

Dress up your high-rate bioretention system with decorative tree grates.

Tree grates can be used as decorative elements that complement the surrounding landscape, architecture or design style of the areas where they are located. 

Add some flare by using a recessed top slab.

A recessed top slab allows sod or other landscaping on top of a vault and provides additional visual appeal. 

Use a vault-based system to integrate high-rate bioretention into the landscape.

Eliminating the top slap provides more space and opportunity for stunning landscaping.

For larger systems, eliminate the vault and create a custom-shaped high-rate bioretention system.

By installing high-rate bioretention directly within a basin, you gain maximum flexibility in design and the opportunity to unleash your creativity.