The Beginner’s Guide to Landscape Lighting Design

New to Outdoor Lighting? Start Here.

Are you ready to add beauty and warmth to your home’s outdoor spaces? Landscape lighting can do wonders to any property, turning patios, fireplaces, plants, and architecture into a spectacle.

But for the best results, you need to approach the project with an intentional landscape lighting design. Not all outdoor lights create the same effect, and you’ll need to consider things like a transformer, wiring, and where it will all go.

Whether you’re set on DIY or could use the help of a professional, read on for our landscape lighting advice. You’ll see your Arlington, VA home in an all-new light.

SEE ALSO: Swap the Living Room for the Patio with Outdoor Entertainment

Why a Landscape Lighting Design Is Worth It

We could all use a little cheer during the dreary, dark winter. When your home is artfully illuminated, you create a pleasant, homey atmosphere for the season. And in summer, brighter spaces mean you’ll enjoy the outdoors after dark more often. You’ll feel more compelled to relax on the patio, play games on the lawn, and swim in the pool if it’s beautifully lit.

Beyond aesthetics, landscape lighting also increases security. Steps and pathways are safer to walk on, and potential trespassers are less likely to step foot in a well-lit yard. If you own security cameras, outdoor lights help make your footage visible. Plus, landscape lights add more value to your home, and it’s easier for new visitors to find the house.

Design Factors to Consider

You need a design and plan before you head to the store and start hanging up lights. Consider these factors before installing anything.

• Light liabilities: Are there any areas that need to be well-lit for safety? Stairs, decks, pools, and pathways should be clearly illuminated.
• Focal points: What would you like to highlight in your design? Consider prominent trees, fountains, sculptures, gardens, and interesting architectural features.
• Light the perimeter: Lighting the edges of your yard creates depth and expands useable space at night.

Types of Landscape Lights

Not all outdoor lights are built the same. We recommend using a variety of styles, ranging from soft to vivid lights. There’s an art to lighting design, and part of the craft is choosing lights and their locations.  

The following are common outdoor lighting fixtures:

• Deck lights
• In-ground (well) lights
• Path lights
• Down- and up-lights
• Wall wash lights
• Step lights
• Spotlights

Which combinations will you use? When our team at Innovative AV designs an outdoor lighting system, we consider adding light and leaving darkness to create contrast.

Smart Lighting Control

Even if your lights look great, are they easy to use? Automated timers are convenient but limited. For instance, what if you don’t want every single light on during your outdoor movie night?

A smart lighting system makes outdoor control easier than ever. You can activate lights when you’re away from home, right from your system’s app. Adjust the brightness and even change the colors anytime you’d like.

Working with a Professional

If you’re handy and determined to DIY your landscape lighting, more power to you! But at Innovative AV, we know how to properly design and install luxury lighting systems with low-voltage wiring. We use the best lighting equipment by Coastal Source, whose solid brass fixtures will never rust or corrode. If you’re unsure how to start, let the professionals handle it for you.

Are you ready to transform your Arlington home after dark? Contact Innovative AV to start your landscape lighting design today!