Outdoor Lighting

Most commonly, Highlighting is used to illuminate a specimen plant by placing two or more spot light fixtures at the base and angling them upward, illuminating both the bark and canopy. Boulders, sculptures and garden structures can also be Highlighted. Although this method of lighting is useful it can be overused. Below are several alternate effects that, if specified, can add range and sophistication to a lighting project.

Silhouetting

When spotlights are placed behind plant material or a garden element and aimed at an adjacent wall to create a backdrop, it allows the viewer to enjoy the outline form of the object only. This technique is useful when trying to showcase very dense plant material that has interesting structure such as Pinus thunbergiana, Yucca varieties or Chamaerops humilis. Silhouetting can also be achieved through Scalloping.

Scalloping

This effect is similar to Silhouetting in that the fixture is positioned at the base of a wall behind the subject aiming up. The use of a non-reflector microfilament lamp combined with a clear lens creates a very sharp elliptical light pattern backdrop. Using this effect is an elegant way to enhance long straight flat walls - especially if they have symmetrically shaped plant material such as Pyrus kawakamii or Dwarf Citrus positioned in the foreground.

Shadowing

Similar to Highlighting, but with the spot light in front of plant material that has a tall adjacent wall so that dramatic shadows are created as a back drop. This method of lighting is an excellent choice for immature landscapes typical of new construction because it transforms a small plant and a large plain wall into a high drama effect that moves with the wind. Good subjects for Shadowing are plants that have an open delicate foliage such as Phoenix roebelenii, Nandina domestica or Acer palmatum - although a well trimmed Tupidanthus calyptratus can produce beautiful patterns.

Grazing

When a project has walls or objects that have rugged surfaces, a series of fixtures placed 6-8" from the base will create a high contrast "black and white" effect. Graze lighting is perfect for high relief stucco or natural stonewalls; however, it can also be used to accentuate the unique bark texture of plants such as Melaleuca quinquenervia or unskinned Washingtonia palms. This effect is the best example of the wonderful visual tension created by the interplay of shadows and light made possible by the micro filament lamps found in FX low voltage spotlights.

Wall Washing

Similar to Grazing, but with fixtures installed 12-18" from the base of the wall, 4' on center and fitted with our Frosted diffuser ­ thereby creating an even illumination. This technique is very efficient because it Highlights the wall and then reflects a soft, glare-free ambient glow onto the surrounding area. If this effect is used on a wall adjacent to walk or driveways, it can eliminate the need for traditional pathlighting. Specify the RS-20-F for walls up to five feet high. If washing walls up to twelve feet or dark rough surfaces, use the RS-35-F.

For more information on outdoor lighting please visit www.fxl.com

Discover the Benefits of Installing Landscape Lighting

There is a myriad of different reasons why homeowners and business owners choose to install exterior lighting. Let’s explore just a few. 

Safety 

Adding lighting to your green space will increase safety after dark. Friends, family, and clients will be able to walk around your yard without tripping or running into obstacles. 

Security 

Having exterior lighting is also a security measure. Outdoor lights will deter intruders and thieves from entering your property in the first place and allow you to notice problems when they occur. 

Aesthetics

Whether you are looking to light up your new water feature or create ambiance, outdoor lighting can improve the appearance of your property in a variety of ways. 

Book a Consultation with Our Landscape Lighting Contractor 

If you are interested in landscape lighting, schedule a consultation with our experts. 

On consultation day, we will walk around your property and discuss your goals for installation. We can make suggestions for areas that would benefit from lighting and draw up a design plan. 

We can also discuss the unique lighting fixtures available, which include:

• Floodlights
• Spotlights
• Garden lights
• Step lights
• Up/ downlighting
• String lights
• Lanterns 
• Bollard lights 
• And more!

What to Expect From Our Landscaping Lighting Services

When the consultation is complete, we will provide you with a detailed quote that outlines the cost of labor and products. 

Once you have agreed to the cost of the service, we will order light fixtures and book an installation at your earliest convenience.

On installation day, our contractors will work diligently to have your lighting up and running as soon as possible. Once the power sources are organized, it will be a matter of installing bulbs and ensuring that the fixtures look the way you want them to. 

When the installation is completed, we will walk you through the yard and show you how to access your lighting. We will ensure you are delighted with the results of your installation before we depart from your property.