By the time you come back home from work, it’s already dark and the beauty of your landscape lurks in that darkness. However, adding lights allow you to relax in the garden, enjoy drinks at the poolside, or simply take a walk outside after dinner. Landscape lighting gives you 24/7 access to your outdoor space and helps you get the most out of your landscape project. Ignoring landscape lighting means you miss out on the opportunity to illuminate your beautiful garden after sunset. Installing landscape lights is important but choosing the right type of lighting fixture and proper technique is equally important. Outdoor lights are not the same as lights installed in your bedroom or living room.
Types of Landscape Lights
There are different types of lights and various lighting techniques that can transform your home. The light used for illuminating the paths and stairs is different from the lights used to create warmth and highlight architectural features. The common types of outdoor landscape lighting include:
- Garden Lights
- Spotlights
- Step Lights
- Flood Lights
- Up & Downlights
- Bollard Lights
- String Lights
Spotlights are different from floodlights in respect to the beam spread. Spotlights are directional lights and are often used for lighting techniques like highlighting, silhouetting, shadowing, grazing, moonlighting, or spotlighting. It usually creates a narrow beam of light to highlight specific architectural details or landscape features. Floodlights, on the other hand, produce a broad beam spread and can be used to light up areas like a driveway for better visibility. Another type of light is inground light which is usually a circle-shaped fixture installed into the ground. This type of light creates an uplight effect and can be used to add drama or silhouettes. A skilled landscape lighting contractor can also add step lights, garden lights, wall wash lights, and path lights to help you create your dream landscape.
Importance of Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting offers multiple benefits. It not only makes your outdoor space more attractive but also increases the safety and security of your house. Skillfully placed landscape lights highlight the best architectural features of your house, as well as illuminate the paths and stairs to prevent accidents and injuries. Well-lit outdoor spaces also deter criminal activities. You can get smart lights with motion sensors and an automatic turning-on feature to improve the safety of your house. When installed correctly, landscape lights can create an oasis that helps you relax and spend quality time with your loved ones.
Illuminating your outdoor area is a great idea to spend more time outside. Outdoor lighting can increase your comfort and enjoyment in the garden. Whether you have built an outdoor kitchen, patio, or swimming pool, lighting can allow you to spend more time outdoor irrespective of the time. You can host a party for your friends or spend a romantic evening with your partner. Lights accentuate your landscape décor and help you create a perfect ambiance. Even if you have a spacious home, organizing parties outdoor is more fun and keeps your house clean.
