Always conceal the light source, either with a shroud on the fixture, or by tucking it behind a shrub, large branch, wall, or rock. Ideally, you will be unable to see where the light originates.
Avoid installing fixtures in the undergrowth of low shrubs or tall grasses. The beam of light needs unimpeded passage from the fixture to the focal point so there are no distracting spots of reflected light.
Remember that in dark areas, it doesn’t take much light to make a difference.
Experiment with backlighting. Lighted trees in the background of a forested area creates silhouettes in the foreground. An uplighted hedge behind a shrub or tree will do the same.
Space path lights at least eight to ten feet apart. When illuminating a walkway, alternate fixtures on either side of the path to avoid that runway look.
Don’t illuminate every surface. Shadows work to define lighted areas. Create a different look for your property at night than it has during the day. The night view will often be more dramatic than the day view.
Using cool white (5000-5700K) creates beautiful moonlight effects on foliage, where warm white (2700K-3500K) is preferred on structures such as homes, trellises, statues, etc.
Pre-planning tips for a new property
Install extra switches by exterior doors.
Consider transformer locations and provide easy access to current at these locations by installing outlets now – preferably not on your front porch!
Place conduit under sidewalks and driveways before they are installed so wire can be run underneath without a lot of hard work later.
