Landscapeplus highlight what the do’s and don’ts of lighting are when working on a project.
Do: Consider how lighting is zoned and controlled
Having the ability to switch different areas of lighting with a control system provides greater usability for the end user and can take lighting schemes to the next level. One choice would be to split the garden by area or, alternatively, split by functional lighting and aesthetic lighting.
Don’t: Over-do it.
Gardens should be relaxing spaces, and this shouldn’t change after the sun goes down. A well thought out lighting scheme should feel inviting and cosy, and one way to achieve this is to consider the amount of lighting used around the garden. For example, use low output fittings in borders and beds to provide a soft glow, and ensure seating areas are lit with indirect, low-glare, ambient lighting. Save the brighter lighting for functional areas like driveways and pathways.
Do: Embrace new systems and technology
With the boom in smart technology over recent years, outdoor lighting, and more specifically, lighting control systems, have come a long way in such a short time. Although the “legacy” systems still get the job done, modern and cutting-edge technology is more user-friendly and allows lighting control from a smartphone device, or even pre-set routines.
Don’t: Forget your conduit
Sure, retrofitting of lighting can be a breeze, especially with low voltage systems, but in some cases, it can be a real headache. For example, ripping up hard landscaping is time consuming, expensive and labour intensive. If the client is undecided or wants lighting but doesn’t have the budget (yet), we always recommend pre-installing the conduit to allow for easy retro-fit in the future.
Do: Be creative
Whether it’s beautifully patterned wood, high-quality paving, or just foliage, why let these elements get lost in the garden once the sun goes down? Integrating lighting not only highlights these key features but also creates wonderful texture and shadows. Don’t be afraid to create contrast or draw the eye with creatively placed decorative lighting.
Don’t: Use mains power
Low voltage systems are superior for a wide number of reasons. Safety being the most important, of course, but also the ease of installation, lack of trenching, and ease of repair. If you’re specifying garden lighting, don’t allow yourself to be pressured into running high-voltage cable around the garden! Low voltage systems are the way forward, and for good reason.
Landscapeplus
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help@landscapeplus.com
01666 577577
This is a fantastic and practical guide. The tips about zoning and avoiding over-lighting are especially usefu it’s easy to get carried away, but you’re right, the goal is to create a relaxing, inviting atmosphere. The advice on using low voltage systems and pre-installing conduit is also super smart and will save a lot of headaches down the road.