FAQs

Parklets FAQs

Can street furniture be used to reclaim parking spaces?

Yes, large scale planters and seating support this. If you’re interested in transforming parking spaces into usable public areas, you can also take a look at our parklets.

Where can street furniture be used?

Our street furniture ranges are suitable for a wide variety of settings, including public spaces,  high streets, parks, school environments and commercial developments. Each installation is designed to suit the specific needs of its location. 

What is street furniture?

Street furniture refers to the fixed and semi-fixed elements found in public spaces such as seating, planters, cycle parking and similar features. It shapes how comfortable, accessible and enjoyable a street or public area feels, and plays a key role in encouraging people to spend time outdoors.

If a parklet gets damaged, who is responsible for the repairs?

The business is responsible for the parklet repairs which can be carried out by the owners own contractors or the original supplier, Meristem Design.

Is there anything to prevent customers walking into the road when using a parklet?

Yes there is planters or a steel balustrade on the roadside of the parklet.

Can businesses customise parklets?

Yes, you can add your own planters or paint our planters and add your own plants. You will be providing your own seating, tables and even parasols as long as you remove them and store them inside outside of business hours.

Who maintains hospitality parklets?

Quite often hospitality parklets are maintained by the business owner, however Meristem Design does provide a maintenance service. Parklets requires regular cleaning and watering of plants.

Do parklets have a deck?

Yes, parklets have a timber deck which can be adjusted to be level with the kerbside.

Can parklets be removed if required and what is the notice period?

Yes, Meristem can remove parklets with 8 weeks notice.

What is the size of a parklet?

Typically they are the size of a car parking space at 5m x 2m for a single parklet or 10m x 2m for a double parklet.

What is the benefit to having a parklet outside my business?

Based on feedback from existing hospitality owners, by having the space and capacity for extra covers, this brings in an average of 30% increase in revenue. This is based on feedback from Charlotte Street. Contact Meristem Design for more information on revenue and feedback, site visits can be arranged to existing sites/business with parklets.

What are the benefits of parklets for businesses?

Parklets offer several advantages for businesses located in the vicinity. By creating attractive and inviting public spaces, parklets draw foot traffic, thereby increasing the visibility of local businesses. The presence of parklets can enhance the overall atmosphere of the high streets, making them more appealing to potential customers. Additionally, the provision of seating and tables in the parklets encourages people to spend more time in the area, leading to higher customer engagement and potential sales. Parklets also contribute to a sense of community, fostering a positive relationship between businesses and local residents.

What is a parklet?

A parklet is a semi-permanent public space, usually built on former parking spaces to extend the kerbside and provide more amenities, greenery and areas for residents, visitors and businesses. Often featuring urban greening elements, types of parklets include; community, hospitality, school and mobility hubs.

Do parklets need planning permission?

You will typically need permission from the local authority or city council, especially for kerbside installations. Get in touch and we can guide you through the process.

How do we maintain parklets and street furniture?

We offer ongoing maintenance services that include plant care and seasonal adjustments to help keep the space functional and inviting for communities and businesses.

Does losing a parking space have a negative impact on local businesses?

No, many customers of bars, coffee shops and restaurants enjoy the alfresco experience. By providing more space, parklets and street furniture help increase footfall and add to the hospitality experience.

What are parklets and how do they enhance BID areas?

Parklets are green outdoor seating areas that turn kerbside space into gathering spots. They provide amenities to residents and visitors by offering seating and greenery that make the district feel welcoming and lively. Parklets are a great addition for BIDs looking to enhance street-level appeal.

How can green spaces improve community engagement?

Green spaces can help bring communities together. This is especially the case if the community is involved in the design or ongoing maintenance of a space. It’s essential to connect with communities meaningfully, allowing them to express their needs and view changes as opportunities.