If you like to host gatherings outdoors during the summer and fall seasons, the exterior won’t be complete without some illumination. Adding light fixtures not only highlights the home's entrances, but they can also bring your garden and trees to life. Here is a basic guide to the do's and don'ts of designing the lighting package for your lawn and landscaping.

Do

Consider positioning and functionality. 

Lighting only the home’s exterior misses the opportunity to highlight the whole property while lighting only the landscaping creates a contrast that feels like a dark shadow around your home. Balance is required for optimal lighting design. 

While the aesthetic is important, don't forget to consider the functionality of your outdoor lighting choices. Make sure the placement doesn't interfere with the doors, windows, or other components of your home's exterior. There also needs to be plenty of space in areas where people or landscaping tools need to pass through.

Prioritize energy efficiency.

Incandescent bulbs use 75% more energy than LEDs and only last for about 1,200 hours; in contrast, the life span of a new LED bulb is 50,000-100,000 hours. Using LED lighting allows you to save money on the utility bills and conserve energy. 

The solar lights may be appealing, but it's important to note that these fixtures often only produce minimal light, and they are completely dependent on the weather to function. If those limits concern you, consider low-voltage LED lighting, which uses only 1/10 the energy of standard bulbs.

Don't

Isolate the walkways.

Lighting only the areas where people walk or congregate can leave the rest of your lawn dark and shadowy, setting a bit of an unsettling mood. It's important for you and your guests to see the surroundings at night to avoid any tripping hazards.

Stick to one brightness level.

If your landscaping includes a prominent feature, like a fountain or statue, it makes sense to highlight that piece. However, the details become washed out when surrounded in bright lighting all around. 

Opting for two softer lights at opposite angles will show off an artful piece more accurately than a single bright light can. Adding several layers of soft and bright lighting throughout your lawn and landscaping will create depth and allow you to craft the ideal mood for each area without overlighting or leaving anything in complete darkness.

Wiseway Design Showroom is an American Lighting Association-certified showroom offering three convenient locations in Lexington, Georgetown, and Frankfurt, KY. They carry a range of Kichler lighting fixtures to illuminate your outdoor spaces. With over 100 years of combined experience, there is no lighting problem these experts can't help you solve. Visit their website or call (859) 259-0466 for more information.