Landscaping is a combination of horticulture and design to create an aesthetically pleasing exterior environment that will blend architecture into its natural surroundings. The style of architecture, geographic location and climate, as well as the terrain of the landscape are considered as the plan is designed. The best landscapes are those that seamlessly provide functionality while enriching the environment both visually and practically.
A well landscaped area will bring the outdoors in and the indoors out, providing comfort, beauty, safety and security. The outdoor “rooms" which can be created for dining, relaxation, hobbies, recreation and entertainment will require illumination for evening enjoyment. Landscape lighting is the icing on the cake! There are many lighting techniques that will not only enhance the outdoor living spaces, but can dramatically change them to compliment their nighttime functions.
Generally, there are several lighting techniques which are implemented in a landscape lighting design. As in any form of design, there are elements to consider such as color, form, pattern, texture and scale. The landscape is broken down into hardscapes or hard landscape elements such as patios, decks, walkways, walls, fences, pools, and water features, and softscapes or soft landscape elements- trees, shrubs, flowers, grasses, etc.
The outdoor pathways should be illuminated for comfortable and safe movement throughout the landscape. It’s important to consider which areas are preferred and which are not. For instance, the path to the main entrance should invite guests to the home. The path from the patio, past the reflection pool and garden, might be softly illuminated to the hidden terrace which then has slightly higher levels of lighting. However, evening illumination is probably not required for the path to the compost pile! Often by lighting other items of interest, there is soft illumination reflected off the tree or wall which serves as pathlighting.
Uplighting large trees, interesting shrubs, rock walls, architectural details, and sculpture will create dramatic effects. Downlighting from large trees, pergolas, and gazebos produces soft, natural light that mimics moonlight. Backlighting, wall washing and shadowing create interesting effects against stone walls or textured surfaces. Crosslighting fountains, sculpture, specimen trees, interesting shrubs, flowers and grasses produce interesting shadows and reveal detail.
There are many other techniques and effects which can be implemented to complete the composition. The lighting should be soft and subtle and the lighting fixtures should blend with the landscape and not produce glare or harsh shadows. The lighting effect should be seen, not the source of light. A professional lighting designer will work with the landscape team to develop a design theme that reflects the goals of the client, meets the needs of the project and results in a uniquely personal mixture of design, comfort, effectiveness, and versatility.
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