When designing outdoor spaces, lighting plays a vital role in transforming a landscape from average to amazing. Whether it’s for a private residence, a multi-residential complex, or a public space, a thoughtful approach to landscape lighting design can change the overall experience of the environment.
Just like an artist uses different colours and strokes to bring a canvas to life, at Light it Design we use various techniques, light sources, and layers of light to create an inviting, comfortable and safe feeling landscape.
When designing with light in landscape it’s important to consider:
- Primary Pathways: These are the main walkways that guide people through the space. Lighting primary pathways ensures safe navigation and defines the flow of movement.
- Secondary Pathways: Secondary pathways lead to specific areas of interest, such as gathering spots or seating areas. Adding light to these paths can create intrigue and helps users explore the surroundings.
- Stationary Areas: Focusing on stationary areas, such as sculptures, a BBQ, a water feature, or architectural elements, adds focal points and draws attention to the unique aspects of the landscape. Lights such as spike lights, inground uplights, different beam angles and introducing the charm of colour changing where suitable.
Improving Security and Visual Appeal
Enhancing security is a key consideration in landscape lighting design. A tailored-lit environment can deter potential intruders and instil a sense of safety for occupants and visitors. This can be achieved through strategically placed bollards, wall lights, and path lights to eliminate dark spots and shadowy corners.
Simultaneously, the lighting designer seeks to create a magical ambience as daylight transitions into the realm of artificial light. This involves carefully balancing the lighting to highlight essential elements while maintaining an air of mystery and intrigue. Like reading a book, where only key sentences are emphasized, a skilful lighting design reveals just enough to spark curiosity and appreciation for the space. The goal is not to highlight everything.
Playing with Time
To create an ever-changing and dynamic landscape, lighting designers employ layers of lighting set on control systems that allow time of day scheduling. This approach allows the designer to highlight various aspects of the outdoor space at different times of the night. Subtle changes in lighting intensity, colour, and positioning can transform the perception of the space from hour to hour. For instance, feature lighting with spike lights or inground uplights can be programmed to highlight certain elements during different times of the night, showcasing the landscape’s beauty.
On and off-peak times should be considered when lighting an area, as lighting can serve to communicate a message. For example, in a communal BBQ area that’s open after dark, lights over the BBQ would be on, making the user feel welcome and comfortable. Once the area closes at 10pm, the overhead BBQ lights could switch off to tell the users the area is now closed. During off-peak times, minimal lighting may guide individuals between different zones, aiming to conserve the nocturnal environment and minimise light pollution. And naturally, ensuring a careful balance of light levels, safety, and energy consumption.
Designing for Diverse Users and Complying with Codes
A well-designed landscape caters to the needs of various users, regardless of age or ability. Lighting designers consider accessibility and user-friendliness while crafting their plans. Properly illuminated pathways with clear wayfinding benefits both young children and elderly individuals, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience.
Moreover, when designing for public spaces and urban landscapes, adherence to local codes and regulations is crucial. Collaboration with CITY COUNCILS and compliance with building codes are essential aspects of a lighting designer’s responsibility. Ensuring that the lighting design aligns with safety standards and environmental considerations is vital for creating sustainable and resilient outdoor spaces.
Challenges: Coordination and Budgeting
Crafting a captivating nightscape comes with its challenges. One major concern is coordinating the lighting design with other elements, such as walls and drainage systems. Integrating low-level LED strips into walls requires careful planning to avoid water stagnation and ensure efficient drainage.
Additionally, budgeting is a critical factor to address early in the design process. Outdoor lighting fixtures often come with a higher price tag than their indoor counterparts due to weather resistance and durability requirements. It is essential to allocate sufficient budget allowances to invest in high-quality, long-lasting fixtures to avoid the pitfalls of choosing cheaper, inferior alternatives that may require frequent replacement.
In summary, landscape lighting design is a creative venture that balances SAFETY, AESTETICS, and FUNCTIONALITY. By layering lighting, understanding pathways, and using dynamic lighting techniques, designers can create mesmerising nightscapes that captivate users and reveal the beauty of the landscape in a new light. Navigating challenges, such as coordination and budgeting, ensures a project’s success, providing a lasting and satisfying experience for years to come.
Are you ready to bring your landscape to life? Get in touch with our lighting design team today: light@lightit.global
Light It Design | Bringing projects to light
Credits: lighting concept, photoshop renders, mood boards, specifications for Client Mirvac Australia.
