This case study explores the possibilities that careful positioning of low voltage fixtures can achieve after dark. We look at how to use landscape lighting to achieve a number of goals:
- highlighting focal points
- creating a mood for entertainment and use at night
- providing simple visual pleasure, and
- providing a safe environment for people to move around.
The lighting designer has the advantage of starting with a black canvas that he or she can manipulate to emphasize the features that are most pleasing to the owner and at the same time disguise less desirable areas or zones.
This ability has the effect of creating two very different settings when comparing night and day.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
Here's a good example of creating a strong focal point at night with the use of light directed from above and to the side of the figurine. This generates much more drama than the corresponding daytime image where the figure is much less noticeable. The arms of the statue in the foreground get the treatment from a low mounted adjustable spike spot.
This area of the landscape tends not to be used at night, therefore looking at the landscape is more important than use.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
Hunza Tier Lights are used on either side of the path to guide pedestrian traffic safely from one gazebo to the other. At the same time the Hunza Wall Spot projects soft up lighting creating a warm glow into the roof space of the far building so that the eye is drawn to the destination.
The Wall Spot is also used in the foreground but in a downward vertical fashion providing a safe light level and emphasizing the architectural features of the gazebo.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
This impressive circular stairway comes alive at night with the copper solid eyelid step light throwing light both forward and from either side. The rough texture of the brick is highlighted by the close proximity of the light source.
Quick Tip
Step lighting should always be positioned as low as possible to avoid any possibility of glare.
The view back to the house is framed by up lighting the large trees left and right.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
Well hidden submersible Hunza pond lights create a suspended or floating effect on the flag stones, visually unobtainable during daylight hours.
Other submersible fixtures and strategic up lighting along the tree line highlight this beautiful avenue as it leads to the house.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
This application image features the Hunza 4 way solid copper path light utilized as a visual marker around this cobble stoned terrace.
The light source in close proximity to the highly irregular surface creates interesting shadow effects, contrasting a much flatter appearance during daylight.
This edition's lighting tip
Where ever possible hide the light fixture so the light is seen but not the lamp. This will avoid the potential glare problem which will certainly be detrimental to the visual experience.
↑ Move your mouse pointer over the image to see the night shot
The Hunza down light produces a much more interesting light pattern on this brick wall than could ever be achieved by a traditional bulk head type fitting. The Hunza Tier light pools light over the entry steps to the garden retreat walkway.
Two fittings hung high in the pagoda pool light down on the path. Use a modified Hunza pond light , supplied with a hook and stainless steel chain.
