People devote a lot of time and resources to creating their ideal yard, but one thing that quite a lot of people neglect is outdoor landscape lighting. Outdoor landscape lighting is one of the most crucial aspects of landscaping and can transform your entire outdoor space.
Today, let us walk you through all the different types of outdoor lighting and where and why you need them.
First, when it comes to outdoor landscape lighting, we need to understand the concept that less is more. Our base instinct is to install lights everywhere, but that is not a good solution. If you start installing a light on every tree and landscape feature, the excess light will wash the yard out and be an inefficient use of all the outdoor light.
You must play with light and shadows to ensure the lighting is optimal. Highlight the unique features in your garden to which you want to draw attention and use the darkness to create a spotlight. You can create a sense of drama and intrigue or even set a romantic or welcoming mood if you want, all with the help of outdoor lighting.
Which Outdoor Landscape Elements Need Light?
When you are deciding on the placement of outdoor landscape lighting, here are some things that you need to consider
- Determine which features in your yard you prefer and want to draw attention to. It could be a magnificent tree, beautiful pond, or water feature. Adding light will highlight the area and show off the features.
- Emphasize areas that do not stand out during the day. For example, a simple stone wall is not quite eye-catching, but with strategically placed light, you can add drama to that area, giving it a whole new personality.
- Keep function in mind as well. At night, there are some places where you need to install a light for safety. A meandering pathway or even a deck of stairs must be illuminated to avoid accidents and injury.
Different Types of Outdoor Landscape Lighting
When discussing outdoor landscape lighting, these are some basic light fixtures you should have or at least be familiar with.
Spotlights or Floodlights
Spotlight and floodlight are technically the same things; the only difference is the beam spread. Spotlights tend to be a much more concentrated, focused, and narrow beam of light. These lights make it easier to aim at specific points and features you want to highlight. The beam of light is approximately 45 degrees.
Floodlights, on the other hand, have a wider beam spread in comparison. The beam spread is usually up to 120 degrees. Floodlights are primarily used to cast light over a general area such as the driveway or parking lot. These lights are generally used for safety and visibility purposes.
Inground Light
Inground light, also known as well light, is usually a circle-shaped outdoor lighting installation directly placed on the ground. These lights are primarily used to brighten the walkways and driveways while also maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your yard. These lights also create an uplight effect to illuminate a landscape structure. Inground lights are usually paired with spotlights to create beautiful silhouettes. Since well lights are concealed in the ground, you can only see the beautiful display of light.
Post Light and Bollard Light
Post lights and bollard lights’ primary purpose is to accent the pathway to your residence while providing ambient lighting. The taller post-bollard lights are great for lighting up driveways and long stretches that do not receive light. Shorter posts and bollards are generally used to guide paths and small alcoves.
Step Light
Step lights, also known as deck lights, accentuate architectural elements and add a secure passage to dark or dimly lit stairs, decks, and more. These lights are lodged directly under the decking or hardscape. They are often utilized for washing light down stone walls and illuminating entertainment spaces.
String Lights
String lights might seem quite simple and even childish to a few people. But with a wide variety of string lights available on any given day that will match your and your yard’s aesthetic. Draping these lights over the hardscape and through the trees gives off a soft glow and a subtle light. These simple string lights can help elevate the entire look of your yard.
Choose Land-Con For Your Outdoor Landscape Lighting
Create an exceptional yard with Land-con and their outdoor landscape lighting solutions. Land-Con is Toronto’s most preferred front yard landscaping and backyard designing company. With over 25 years of experience, no matter what space of your yard you wish to transform, Land-con’s professionals are ready to help you achieve the best outcome for your front yard and backyard space. Contact Land-con at 416.504.5263 or drop us an email at info@landcon.ca to learn more.
