Landscape Lighting Tips & Techniques

TRANSFORMING YOUR NIGHTTIME LANDSCAPE with lighting effects will create lovely shadows and define interesting architectural elements. There are a variety of ways to add drama to your outdoor space, no matter its size. Keep in mind that even a modest yard or small terraced area can benefit from getting creative with simple lighting techniques.  

Up-Lighting

Uplighting refers to illuminating an object, area or surface from below. For the effect shown below, a spot light is aimed at the tree in the foreground while the front of the home remains relatively dark. This method creates a focal point
in the landscape: 

"My favorite landscape lighting technique is using spot lights: I love the effect of up-lighting trees!"

“If chosen carefully, even the most modest of landscape design projects can be transformed into something magical. Using a variety of lighting will provide a combination of highlights to enhance a space — try using up lights in trees, path and spot lights in landscape and decorative lanterns over seating areas.”

LISA McDENNON, LISA McDENNON DESIGN

Grazing

Grazing emphasizes a textured surface (such as a tree trunk, a stone wall, climbing ivy, etc.) by placing a light source within one foot of that surface and aiming the light beam parallel to that surface. For the effect shown below, spot lights are placed beneath each stone pillar to create shadows and dimension, complementing the home’s entryway: 

Path and area lighting is used to enhance landscaping such as flower beds, shrubbery and borders while safely illuminating pathways. For the effect shown below, path lights are staggered around the walkway to create pools of light and illuminate a safe passageway to the home’s entrance emphasizing the dynamic design of the landscape: 

Path Lighting

Silhouetting 

Also called backlighting, silhouetting is used to dramatize an interesting-shaped object. For the effect shown below, a spot light is placed between the tree and the front of the home. The spotlight is aimed at the front of the home creating a dramatic silhouette of the tree: 

Step Lighting

Step and brick lights can be used in masonry and wood constructions. These fixtures are designed to safely illuminate stairways and walkways. For the effect shown below, the steps are gently illuminated leading up to the doorway to ensure safety: