Design is often associated with aesthetics. A term for this is “curb appeal,” which is, “the immediate visual appeal of a home [or space] from the street,” (French, John.)  People often want spaces to look well maintained, clean, and “pretty.” By designing a landscape with intentional aesthetics to appeal to the potential user’s eye, it draws in potential buyers to the space, creating a higher demand for the space, which increases the property value. Also, the addition of certain site furnishings, such as seating, ramps, shades, etc, will also add value to the space because of the potential for multi-use. In The Effect of Landscape Plants on Perceived Home Value, it is said that, “Survey results showed that relatively large landscape expenditures significantly increase perceived home value and will result in a higher selling price than homes with a minimal landscape. Design sophistication and plant size were the landscape factors that most affected value. The resulting increase in “curb appeal” of the property…. also help[s] differentiate a home in a subdivision where house styles are similar and thereby attract potential buyers into a home,” (Niemiera, Alex X.). Having a sophisticated landscape design helps increase the value of a property. Higher property values lead to better maintenance of places, which then attracts more buyers and sellers, helping promote the overall economic development of an area. 

Creating thoughtful outdoor spaces promotes health and well-being. Designed landscapes are used for a multitude of events like concerts, community gatherings, and leisure. The health benefits from parks include a decrease in depression, cardiovascular disease, stress, and much more. In a study from The Trust for Land (2013), it is shown that these health benefits park users obtain promote economic development through reduced health costs. The report showed that designed landscapes such as green spaces or parks “...contribute physical health benefits equivalent to about $2 billion in reduced health costs related to lack of physical activity in Massachusetts” (Gwam, Peace, et al.). The 2 billion dollars that would have been set aside for various health costs could then be put into other community aspects like creating more jobs, housing, or programs for community relief. Designing spaces has a far bigger economic impact when you zoom out to view a bigger picture.