Though we may have “gained an hour” of sleep, daylight saving time stole 60 minutes of our after-work sunlight. Coming off the wave of summer, we were spoiled with plenty of light during our day to enjoy the outdoors. Now that the sun retreats in the early part of the evening, you may find yourself also retiring inside sooner than usual. Don’t neglect your outdoor oasis just because its dark out, add some illumination to your yard and enjoy your landscaping all year long.
Low voltage lighting is the most common type used for residential projects. It is typically less expensive, easy to install and has the lowest risk of accidental shock compared to 120v systems. The low voltage lighting world has made a lot of advancements over the last three years. The cost of install and run rate have come down, fixture options have increased, and smart controllers give you endless options. Previously, the only customization available was a timer that turned the lights on and off at a set schedule. The Luxor by FX Luminaire is by far the most advanced option on the market today; you can change the color of lights, create zones, add up to 250 lights, create light shows with preprogrammed themes, dimming and so much more! My favorite part is you can control all these features from your iPhone or tablet. I recommend visiting FX Luminaire’s website to learn more.
For those who are looking to get lighting in the yard as soon as possible, you may want to explore solar-powered lighting, which is the quickest and most cost-effective option. You can find these fixtures at all major hardware and big box stores. They have a shorter lifespan and are typically used as a temporary solution until you can install a wired system. For some, these might be just what you are looking for to light up a dark corner of the yard or help make your pathway safer for guests.
Beyond the type of lighting, another consideration for your landscaping luminosity is design and placement. Uplights or spotlights are ideal for flaunting tall elements like trees, buildings and large plants. These work well for bringing attention to individual steps and accenting focal points like outdoor artwork, fancy plants, or even a cascading waterfall. They can also showcase architectural columns, decorative pillars or flagpoles. For pergolas and arbors, you can install a downlight which will cast a downward beam onto the outdoor kitchen, seating or other area under your structure.
As their name suggests, pathlights assist walkways by casting a circular area of light along your path. Be sure to space them out appropriately to provide coverage without over-lighting. Silhouetting is another memorable way to draw focus. With the illumination placed behind the plant or object, shadows and light blend to forge a unique attraction. Floodlights have a broader beam of up to 120 degrees and are more ideal for brightening larger areas of your landscaping. Use floodlights for lawns, parking lots, warehouses and driveways. Since floodlights span more surface area, they are a great choice for security. The more light you have on your property, the less chance of robbery, damage or graffiti. Along with security, adequate lighting can provide a safer outdoor experience.
Think outside the lamp by adding natural light-enhancing features like fire pits, outdoor pizza ovens or heaters. These will contribute a glow while also being functional. Fire features can come in an array of forms including traditional pits, outdoor fireplaces and even gas fire tables. Heaters also come in many creative designs and will double as a light source while giving off warmth for you and your guests on those dark, chilly nights.
Get creative! Set an ambiance with string lights or add recessed lighting underneath your outdoor kitchen cabinets. Hang lanterns on your porch or install color changing underwater lights in your pool and spa. There are lights that are disguised to look like rocks and different tones of light to accent your theme as intricately as possible. Whatever your goals may be, adding light to your landscape will invite a welcoming atmosphere from dusk till dawn.