Landscape Lighting Possibilities
There are many options when it comes to illuminating the exterior areas of a home. Landscape Lighting must be completed in a well thought out fashion. Creating a plan on paper will ensure that each light fixture is properly situated to enhance attractive areas within a landscape. It is also important to position fixtures so that each light beam is used to its maximum benefit. Most light fixtures have an intended method of installation. There are however, some fixtures that offer multiple installations and illumination options. Lighting the outdoors can be done from below, above, and even behind architectural structures and greenery within the landscape. Path lighting, up lighting, and down lighting are a few of the most popular lighting techniques used by professional landscapers.
Path lighting is important for increasing the safety of family and guests as they maneuver to and from the property. Well lit access points should include all pathways, stairs, and driveways. There are many types of fixtures that can be used as path lights including recessed, post, post cap, and lanterns. Any of these fixtures can be used to light one or both sides of a path to promote better illumination in areas where people will likely be walking during the dark hours of the day. Pool areas must also be well lit when night time use is expected. The entire perimeter of the pool area can be illuminated with path lighting to increase safety around the pool area. Most homeowners choose recessed lights for this purpose because it eliminates having exposed fixtures that can pose a tripping hazard.
Up lighting places light illumination upward and can be used to illuminate objects and greenery from below. Shrubs, trees, fountains, arbors, and even gazebos can be lit from below to create an elegant night time landscape. Most homeowners choose this type of outdoor lighting as a way to enhance the most beautiful parts of their landscaping design. The light can be used to bring focus to exotic plants, artistic statues, and even the most unique architectural aspects of a home. Spot lights are the most popular type of up lighting fixture on the market today. Spot lighting is quite versatile and can be used in multiple ways to enhance the outdoor beauty of a home.
Down lighting or moon lighting works well in areas of entertainment. The fixtures are typically installed at eye level but the illumination is directed downward. Down lights can be used to illuminate a deck, patio, or pergola during night time use. The number of fixtures needed depend greatly on the function of the space. Less lighting works well for a place of respite and relaxation while more lighting is needed when an area is used for parties and other types of gatherings.
There are endless possibilities in landscape lighting. A well thought out plan will ensure that all of the main areas are covered and it will also ensure that each light fixture is used to its full potential.
Landscape Design Ideas | Landscaping Design
