Lighting in Design Q3 2023

house and patio space to give your garden extra size and a relaxed atmosphere. Different materials are a must Previously, garden lights came in stale grey or white PVC bodies only. Nowadays you can buy lights made from any number of materials – including concrete and bronze. Using different styles and light fixtures made from alternate materials, you can add texture and detailing that will turn heads. Light up the path If you have a pathway, consider stake lights to illuminate the paving. You can set them high or push them low into the ground, depending on your preference – the higher the light from the ground, the more area will be lit up. If you go with a solar option, you will also eliminate the need for a power supply that would have forced you to dig up along the pathway, ruining your grass in the process. Backlights for pot plants Do not place smaller lights into your pot plants. Instead, opt for a backlight that shines against the backdrop behind the pot plant instead of the plant itself. This gives light to the wall or space behind the plant, while also creating a dramatic effect on the pot plant itself. Look up Seating areas should ideally have an overhead light. This can be any style of your choosing, but a festoon of lights is the easiest option as the bulbs are all attached to one power source and there are enough bulbs to provide ample lighting for anyone sitting in the area. Don’t ignore the small things Corners are simple to light up – one fitting can spread across two walls. Do not ignore smaller spaces either. Warm bulbs carefully spaced can give the illusion of size to tiny areas that are often overlooked. Focus on the features While subtle lighting can provide spectacular results, a focal feature needs to be just that – central and highlighted. By using a statement light, unique shapes and design details can be accentuated to draw the eye. It’s all about the spacing Do not make the mistake of clumping lights too close together. Instead of a delicate effect, this will overpower the garden and detract from the objective of creating a warm, cosy atmosphere.