Home, Residential, electrical services
Written by Larry Cook

Essential Landscape Lighting Design Ideas – Part 2

As mentioned in Part 1, lighting design can significantly transform how your property is perceived at night. The following are the second 5 of 10 essential landscape lighting design ideas for your home. Consult with an experienced and licensed electrical services company for your safety and the best results.

Direction Determines Emotion

Light direction is a great tool for obtaining a desired emotional effect.  For example, down-lighting will result in a romantic aura as it seems moonlight is softly bathing an area. In contrast, up-lighting results in an effect that is dramatic and bold when light is directed upward toward a landscape element like a statue. On the other hand, cross-lighting results in a neutral affect because it create greater depth in an area by directing light from two opposite sides and eliminating shadows.

Prevent Light Pollution

Light design also requires awareness of unintended effects. For example, light pollution can involve directing light towards residences beyond your property, perhaps violating the peace and privacy of your neighbors. An overuse of landscape lighting may also create the unpleasant effect of overwhelming the moon and stars above.

Night Lighting Placement

Working during daytime on the placement of lighting will not give you a good idea how the shadows of statues, trees, and plants will look. There is also a good chance that the directions of lights will be inaccurate and require adjustment once the errors become clear after nightfall.

Timing is Everything

Automating where and when landscape lighting is activated can be made easy with timer apps, which can be controlled by smartphones or tablets. This convenience saves a homeowner time and effort 24/7. Programmed dimmers can also be used to control the strength of lights during certain periods.

Wattage for Control

Choosing the proper wattage for lighting will significantly affect whether or not your design will be successful. One key is the avoidance of high-wattage bulbs for landscape features because they tend to generate lighting that seems stark and hard. Generally, lower wattage bulbs create an understated effect that results in an elegant and graceful effect.

Electrical Peace of Mind

Providing professional electricians since 1988 in Maryland, Cook Electric is the company you can rely on for all your electrical service needs, including:

  • Commercial & Residential Electrical Installations
  • Marina & Residential Pier Wiring
  • Electrical Service & Repair
  • Specialty Electrical Services

For knowledgeable, fair, honest, reliable, and conscientious service, call Cook Electric today at (410) 266-9040. They will be very glad to help you.