5 Key Elements for Safe and Attractive Parking Lot Designs

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When it comes to parking lot designs, the right layout can make all the difference. From asphalt to concrete, landscaping to lighting, every detail plays a critical role in creating a safe, efficient, and visually appealing parking facility. Whether you're designing a new parking lot or renovating an existing one, your choices matter. Let's take a closer look at some of the key elements of parking lot design that can help you maximize space, safety, and curb appeal.

What Is Parking Lot Design

Parking lot design refers to the planning, designing, and allocating space for vehicles in commercial, residential, and public spaces. It is an interdisciplinary approach involving urban planning, architecture, and civil engineering to maximize space usage, efficiency, and aesthetics.

Integrating Parking Lots into Urban Planning

Urban planning plays a crucial role in parking lot design by considering the overall land use,

accessibility, and connectivity to surrounding areas. It ensures that the parking lot is well-integrated with the surrounding transportation infrastructure and meets the needs of the community.

Balancing Design and Functionality

Architecture focuses on the design and aesthetics of the parking lot, ensuring that it complements the surrounding buildings and enhances the overall visual appeal. It also considers the functionality of the parking lot, including the layout, parking angles, and stall arrangements to maximize space and improve traffic flow.

Engineering the Structural Integrity of Parking Lots

Civil engineering is responsible for the structural design and construction of the parking lot. It ensures that the parking lot is built to withstand the weight and traffic of vehicles, including heavy trucks and buses. It also considers drainage and other infrastructure requirements to ensure the longevity and sustainability of the parking lot.

Tailoring Parking Lot Design to Specific Needs

When designing a parking lot, it is essential to consider the purpose and intended use of the lot. For example, a parking lot for a shopping mall may require a different design than a parking lot for a school or office building. The design should also consider the flow of traffic, pedestrian safety, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Prioritizing Sustainability

In addition to functionality and safety, parking lot design should also consider sustainability and environmental impact. This includes using permeable pavement materials to reduce stormwater runoff, incorporating green spaces and landscaping, and using energy-efficient lighting.

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Why Is Parking Lot Design Important?

Designing a parking lot properly is essential to provide safe and efficient access in and out of the parking spaces. The reality is that your parking lot design can make or break your property.

Tenant and Client Impressions

For example, tenants will probably think twice about leasing a unit if they see how unorganized the spaces are in your apartment complex parking lot. Similarly, you might leave a bad impression on clients who are visiting your office but run into problems in your parking lot.

Thoughtful Planning

The bottom line is this: poorly designed parking lots can lead to unnecessary stress and problems for your customers or tenants, and this is the last thing you want to happen. Before you proceed to the installation, you need to take some time mapping out your parking lot. Think about how you will utilize your space and section it into parking stalls to ensure you do not run into problems later.

Long-Term Implications

It could be hard to keep up with parking lot maintenance if the design does not match the space you have for the lot. Sooner or later, you may need to redo the design to improve safety and efficiency, which will be an expensive venture.

The Importance of Sustainability in Parking Lot Design

Sustainability in parking lot design is crucial for reducing environmental impact. Elements such as reducing surface runoff and heat island effects are necessary for creating an eco-friendly parking lot. Thoughtful materials and layouts can help achieve this sustainability goal. Materials that can reduce heat and provide better water drainage are essential for the longevity of your parking lot and the well-being of your property. The right materials can also reduce the impact on the environment and be a sound investment in the short and long term.

Streamlining Parking Operations with Parqour

Parqour is a software platform that simplifies parking operations and improves the customer experience. It offers real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payments. We operate in more than 22 countries, 300+ parking areas, and have detected over 100M+ vehicles. Parqour offers a comprehensive end-to-end management platform to increase revenue, reduce operational cost and enhance transparency.

Say goodbye to piecing together different vendors and integrations. No need to spend huge capital on bulky hardware. Control all operations from one platform. Contactless parking and online payment methods make the parking experience easier for your customers too.

The end result:

Higher utilization and lower operating costs

99.6% license plate recognition rate

Online QR payment & 3rd party APIs (integrated with Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, PayByPhone)

Data analytics (real-time occupancy, revenue, utilization, parking trends)

Validation and permit management (free flow access for approved drivers)

24/7 remote control system

Hardware with zero upfront costs

Zoning and violation detection (control POD, VIP and nested zones), and much more!

Book a free demo to learn about how Parqour can shift your parking operation into top gear!

5 Key Elements for Safe and Attractive Parking Lot Designs

Overall Parking Lot Size

Maintaining an overall parking lot size that is conducive to the number of users it accommodates and the type of vehicles it will host is crucial. Overcrowded lots can lead to chaos and accidents, while oversized lots may remain underutilized, wasting valuable resources. Meeting municipal and industry requirements is equally important to guarantee compliance.

Clear and Controlled Flow

Facilitating an intuitive and organized traffic flow within the parking lot is essential. Bright parking lines, signage designating specific areas, and navigational signage for directions and instructions help streamline the parking process. Directional stenciling on the pavement further aids drivers and pedestrians, ensuring a smooth experience for all.

Ample Safety Planning

Safety should always be a top priority when designing a parking lot. Implementing safety features like bollards to mark hazards, wheel stops to prevent vehicle damage, speed bumps for controlled speed, and adequate lighting for security are vital. Well-placed curbs that are maintained properly also contribute to a safer environment for both drivers and pedestrians.

Parking Lot Space Accessibility

Designing parking spaces with accessibility in mind ensures that the parking lot can be used by everyone regardless of their unique needs. Designating accessible parking spots near ramps, providing audible crosswalk signals, family-friendly parking spaces, and eco-friendly areas with electric vehicle charging stations all contribute to a more inclusive and user-friendly parking lot.

Attractive Added Features

Enhancing the aesthetics of a parking lot goes beyond just functionality. Incorporating planters, trees, hedges, brand logos, and other creative elements can elevate the visual appeal of the parking area. These additional features not only add charm and style but also contribute to a unique and inviting atmosphere for customers, tenants, and visitors.

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What Are the Different Types of Parking Lot Designs?

Parallel Parking

Parallel parking is a common type of parking layout where vehicles are parked parallel to the road or lot boundary. This layout is often seen in urban areas where space is limited. Although parallel parking maximizes the use of limited street-side space, it is considered challenging to maneuver into and out of the spaces. It is less efficient in terms of space utilization compared to other types of parking configurations. Despite these challenges, parallel parking remains a suitable option for areas with limited space availability.

Angled Parking (30°, 45°, 60°)

In angled parking, cars are parked at an angle (typically 45° or 60°) to the aisle, making it easier for drivers to enter and exit parking spots. This layout is more compact compared to parallel parking, allowing for more cars per row. Angled parking often requires one-way traffic flow, which can complicate navigation and increase the distance needed to reach destinations. Exiting an angled parking space can be more hazardous due to limited visibility of approaching traffic.

Perpendicular Parking (90°)

Perpendicular parking, also known as straight parking, is the standard parking layout for most parking lots. This layout ensures that customers are familiar with the flow of the lot. Perpendicular parking is simple to design for maximum accessibility, making it suitable for two-way traffic flow, which can reduce congestion within the parking lot. Precise driving is required to avoid collisions when pulling into or out of spaces. Perpendicular parking may necessitate larger turning radii, requiring wider driving aisles.

Parking Space Dimensions and Angles

Parking space dimensions play a crucial role in determining the type of vehicles that can be accommodated in a parking lot. Standard parking spaces are typically 9 feet wide and 18 feet long, able to accommodate most sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Compact parking spaces are smaller, usually 16 feet long and 8 feet wide, suitable for smaller vehicles like motorcycles and bicycles.

Accessible parking spaces are wider than standard spaces, meeting specific width requirements for accessibility. The angle of parking spaces can impact the efficiency of a parking lot. Parking angles, such as 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90°, are used for different parking configurations. Balancing the number of parking spaces with ease of maneuverability is essential when designing a parking lot. The type of vehicles expected in the parking lot should also be considered when determining parking space angles to ensure adequate space and clear aisleways for all drivers.

A Three-Step Guide to Parking Lot Design

Your parking lot's design will be heavily influenced by the purpose it serves. Depending on whether your lot serves as a retail parking location for busy weekend shoppers or to hold the daily truck-loading of large shipments, the size, thickness and overall general layout will be affected. See how different purposes could influence your design strategy

Parking lot size

If you operate a university, the recommended number of spaces will be higher than if your parking lot is primarily for restaurant guests. Some industries have code requirements for parking — determined by the square footage of the facility — while others have recommendations based on seats or rooms, as in a hotel.

Pavement thickness

Depending on the weight your asphalt will hold day in and day out, the thickness of your pavement will vary. Larger vehicles, such as trucks bearing shipping loads, will require more significant depth. This traffic class, along with the subgrade soil class, or the quality of the soil beneath your pavement, determines how thick your pavement should go for the highest durability.

Parking space angles

The angles at which your parking slots are aligned with the driving aisles depend largely on the purpose of your lot. Angles at 45 to 60 degrees are ideal for a parking lot with high turnover, like a convenience store parking lot. Ninety-degree angled parking spaces are the most difficult to park in, so they're often reserved for overnight or employee parking, for example.

By looking at the purpose your business and parking lot will be designed for, you'll have a better idea of which parking lot design guidelines you should pay the most attention to.

Doing the Math: Sizing and Spacing

Commercial parking lot dimension standards can vary tremendously between cities, building types and industries, but there are a handful of steps that can help you calculate just how big of an area your pavement needs to cover

Figure out the number of spaces

Going back to the purpose of your parking lot, pinpoint how many parking spaces are either recommended in your industry or enforced by building code requirements. Knowing the number of spaces you need to fit into the parking area will help you see whether you have room for other parking lot amenities that are less essential, such as two-way barrier gates, which can require a sizeable space. Try not to compromise on the number of slots you need or the right dimensions for those slots.

Determine parking slot size

You must consider the reason people will be using the parking space when determining the size of each space. For instance, if you're designing the parking for a grocery store, you might need to provide wider spaces for people carrying groceries. Nine by 19 feet is the standard size for public-use parking spaces. Not all spaces will be the same size, as some parking slots are reserved for particular purposes, like providing access for the disabled.

Consider accessibility requirements

Account for extra space you'll need for van-accessible parking spaces, handicapped parking spaces, walkways, ramps and curb structures. A parking lot needs to be accessible and safe for everyone who uses it. This requirement can include extra access aisles between spaces and the room for additional parking barriers.

Other uses for extra space

Does your parking lot serve additional functions, such as offering a drive-through lane for customers or a truck-loading zone? For a school parking lot design, for example, perhaps there are special accommodations for buses and drop-offs. These are other considerations you should make when determining the appropriate size of your pavement.

Once you've made clear decisions about how the different areas of your parking lot need to be sized and spaced out, you can begin planning your layout and the flow of traffic within it.

Creating a Flow: Parking Layout Design Guidelines

There are a variety of factors that go into the most functional parking lot design layout for your business. Most will have to do with directing traffic clearly and providing the right amount of space where needed to create a safe and optimized system. To keep pedestrian traffic in mind as well, and think about the following

Space efficiency

For the most space-conscious parking slots, always opt for the 90-degree angled spaces. To further optimize space in the parking areas, consider creating a lot that is rectangular rather than irregular shape. Another standard recommendation is to make the long sides of the parking lot parallel to each other, with parking spaces located along the perimeter of the lot. Finally, allow two-way traffic lanes to access parking stalls on either side of the driving aisle for the highest space efficiency.

Traffic signage

In your parking lot design, provide helpful, lawful signage to protect right-of-way and pedestrians. Some useful traffic signs for parking lot safety include stop and yield signs, pedestrians crossing, reserved parking signs for handicapped and van-accessible spaces and speed limit markers. The placement of these signs should align with the flow of traffic that you design, visible to both drivers and pedestrians.

Painted asphalt markings

Along with proper striping for your parking spaces, remember to have safety markings painted on the pavement to help with traffic flow. Markings specify which slots are intended for handicapped use and where the access aisles lead. They can also be painted in stripes along the pavement to indicate pedestrian zones. These markings need to be stark and visible, painted with this waterborne and fast-drying traffic paint, for example.

Concrete parking barriers

Wheelstop barriers along the front end of parking slots can help ensure that cars are situated safely within the spaces. Adequately placed barriers prevent vehicles from damaging landscaping or buildings that are adjacent to the parking lot. A concrete curb along the parking lot edge can function the same way for cars along the perimeter of the lot. These perimeter curbs with appropriate ramps should always be constructed around parking lots when possible.

Markers, signs and barriers all help create the boundaries to contain and define your parking lot layout. But more than just traffic-related elements, you can add other features to your parking lot to ensure its safe use.

Design for Safety: Parking Lot Security Provisions

For the most reliable parking lot, traffic flow is the most important aspect you'll want to control, but it's not the only one. Pay close attention to the way your parking lot design addresses the following

Drainage provisions

To prevent damage to the underlying soil, the pavement itself prevents moisture from trickling through. Part of what makes asphalt so effective is precautions taken to provide proper water drainage. Avoid standing water on your asphalt through inlets and catch basins — along with other drainage methods — as part of your parking lot pavement design.

The construction of these drainage provisions should be handled as early as possible. Parking area surfaces are usually designed to prevent accumulating water at the pavement edges, with a slope of two percent at a minimum.

Access ramps

Changes in elevation should be accounted for in your asphalt parking lot specifications, and proper safety measures should be taken to ensure that everyone who needs to access the lot can do so without risking harm. Ramps leading from the pedestrian access to the lot to the shared handicapped access aisles are crucial, for instance. Similarly, ramps that allow access from the pavement to the elevated sidewalks should be built into the perimeter curb design.

Lighting design

For an entirely safe and operational commercial parking lot, light fixtures with excellent coverage are essential. In most circumstances, your lighting should provide adequate vision for comfortable travel through the parking lot, without causing glare or visual interference to areas and buildings adjacent to the property. Provide heavier lighting in the highly trafficked sections of the parking lot, such as entrances, exits and loading zones. To cause as little glare and light pollution as possible, use light fixtures that angle the stream of the light as close to zero degrees, or facing downward, as possible.

These safety precautions cannot be emphasized enough. Without proper drainage, access and lighting, the security of your parking lot will always be in jeopardy. Fortunately, you can incorporate these additions seamlessly into your parking lot design

Take it up a Notch: Other Design Elements to Consider

In addition to the construction-related safety measures listed above, your parking lot can have a variety of other features. They can beautify your parking lot or give it an air of professionalism while also serving a practical function.

Landscaping design

Placing trees and other types of landscaping in or around your parking lot can work wonders for its visual effect, but it can also serve a variety of functions. For example, tree branches can shield neighboring buildings from the glare of parking lot lighting at night. All landscaping should be spaced out so as not to obstruct traffic and tended and trimmed regularly to ensure visibility is not compromised.

Barrier gates

Among some of the higher-security features for parking lot pavement design, a barrier gate may be what enables your lot to be most effective in fulfilling its specific purpose. These gates permit only authorized individuals to park in a particular lot, using a card system to open for pre-approved people. These gates can be two-way, or they can be located at the entrance of the parking lot if you have a separate means to exit.

Emergency call stations

On university campuses, for example, the need for security surveillance and quick access to the authorities is becoming more standard. When designing a parking lot for such an institution, incorporate emergency call boxes into your design, preferably in the well-lit sections of the parking lot.

Of course, the three features listed here are not the only design elements available to enhance your commercial parking lot. Depending, again, on the purpose of your parking facility and the standards of your industry, take as many options into consideration as you can. That way, you can create the best design possible for your lot — and keep it well-maintained over the long term.

Design for the Long Run: Asphalt Maintenance Solutions

One of the most important aspects of your design is the provision of long-term care and maintenance. Parking lots can show some wear over time if not protected properly and regularly due to the consistent effects of Mother Nature. With the best care, there's nothing that a well-coated asphalt parking lot can't withstand.

To best guard your freshly designed parking lot from the effects of wind, water, ultraviolet rays and dripping oil, your asphalt will regularly require efficient and durable seal coating and striping. In addition, if you notice any problematic areas, tending to them promptly is the most effective way to prevent further damage in the future.

Consider the following signs of wear and how to treat them effectively

Cracking

Even the slightest cracking can be a warning sign of greater damages ahead. Moisture and other harmful substances can enter the base layers of your asphalt through these cracks, leading to more severe damages

Discoloration

Although the pavement is a rich black after construction, it can fade into a gray or brown, which are both signs of the wearing effects of the sun. A change in color can also be due to spilled oil

Raveling

The asphalt binding agent has worn out, creating loose gravel or a sand-like substance.

Potholes

When cracking becomes too deeply threaded beneath the surface of the pavement, over time, potholes can form.

When you inspect your asphalt and come across these concerns, consider the following solutions to refresh and maintain your pavement

Crack-filling

For one of the most cost-effective ways to preserve and prolong the life of pavement, consider having any visible cracks in your asphalt filled professionally.

Sealcoating

This process is a preventative one that can double the life of your pavement.

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6 Ways to Optimize a Parking Lot

1. Improving Parking Lot or Facility Layout

I recommend enhancing parking lot or facility layout as one of the first strategies. This can involve adding more spaces or rows, changing space sizes, shapes, or having one-way aisles. Implementing these adjustments can optimize traffic flow and parking space utilization, effectively maximizing the efficiency of the parking lot.

2. Making Entrances and Exits More Visible

Ensuring entrances and exits are easily noticeable in your parking lot is another key strategy. By doing this, you can minimize the time it takes for people to exit, reducing congestion and improving overall traffic flow. Improved visibility of entry and exit points can enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

3. Checking Signage and Lighting

Regularly inspecting and maintaining parking lot lighting and signage is crucial for enhancing safety and navigation. Well-lit parking lots create a safer environment for both drivers and pedestrians. Visibility of signage in the parking facility aids in easier navigation and helps to establish a sense of direction for visitors and users.

4. Adding a Visual Parking Lot Barrier

Creating barriers using rows of shrubs or fencing can be beneficial, especially for parking lots located near busy roads. These barriers help mitigate noise and improve visual aesthetics. By implementing visual barriers, the parking lot's appeal can be enhanced while simultaneously aiding in traffic management and safety.

5. Establishing Designated Walkways

Setting up designated walkways for pedestrians can significantly improve traffic flow and overall safety in your parking facility. Clearly marked walkways provide a safe passage for pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. These designated walkways help separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic, allowing for smoother movement within the parking lot.

6. Creating a Loading and Unloading Zone

For parking lots that have frequent shuttle or valet services, having loading and unloading zones can be beneficial. Clear markings and signage for these zones help direct drivers and keep traffic flowing smoothly. Establishing designated loading and unloading zones not only improves traffic management but also enhances safety and reduces the risk of accidents.

Simplify Your Parking Operations and Improve Your Customer Experience with Parqour －Book A Free Demo Today

Parqour is a groundbreaking software platform that has taken the parking management industry by storm, offering unparalleled innovation and efficiency in parking operations. Our top-of-the-line features include real-time data, automated plate recognition, and contactless payments, all designed to simplify the parking experience for both operators and customers. We have a global presence in more than 22 countries, managing over 300 parking areas and recording more than 100 million vehicles to date.

Centralized Management Platform for Parking Lot Designs

With Parqour, you can say goodbye to the hassle of piecing together different vendors and integrations for your parking operation. Our comprehensive end-to-end management platform allows you to control all aspects of your parking lot from one centralized system. This means increased revenue, reduced operational costs, and enhanced transparency, all from a single, easy-to-use platform. No more need to invest heavily in bulky hardware or navigate complex integrations – Parqour does it all for you.

Contactless Parking and Online Payment Methods for Parking Lot Designs

One of the key features that makes Parqour stand out is our focus on customer experience. By offering contactless parking and online payment options, we make the parking experience a breeze for your customers. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also leads to higher utilization rates and lower operating costs for your parking lot.

Cutting-Edge Technology and Data Analytics for Parking Lot Designs

Parqour offers a range of cutting-edge technologies and data analytics features that set us apart from the competition. These include a 99.6% license plate recognition rate, online QR payment, and integration with third-party APIs like Parkmobile, SpotHero, Honk, and PayByPhone. Our real-time occupancy, revenue, utilization, and parking trend analytics help you make informed decisions to optimize your parking operation.

Validation and Permit Management for Parking Lot Designs

In addition to traditional parking management features, Parqour also offers validation and permit management capabilities. This allows for free flow access for approved drivers and helps you streamline operations further. Our system also supports zoning and violation detection, giving you control over POD, VIP, and nested zones within your parking lot.

Remote Control and Zero Upfront Costs for Parking Lot Designs

Parqour makes it easy for you to manage your parking lot remotely with our 24/7 remote control system. With zero upfront costs on hardware, you can start using Parqour right away without any significant financial investment. Our platform is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, making it easy for you to take your parking operation to the next level.

Parqour: Your Partner in Parking Lot Designs

Parqour offers a comprehensive suite of features and services designed to revolutionize the way you manage your parking lot. From streamlined operations to enhanced customer experience, Parqour is your partner in taking your parking operation to the next level.

Book a free demo today to see how Parqour can transform your parking operation into a well-oiled machine.