Get familiar with the different lighting types
You generally want your outdoor lights to be hidden with focus instead on their illumination, not the fixture. There are, however, a few exceptions to the rule, such as fittings that you want to put on display. Our LED pole light complements any barbecue area with its sleek curve ending in a stunning light module.
Always opt for LED lights and remember that yellow light delivers a more relaxing atmosphere as opposed to white light which can drain your outdoor surfaces of tone and texture.
LED lights are energy efficient, long-lasting and have reduced heat output.
Here is a list of the main outdoor light fittings that it pays to get accustomed with.
LED bollards – Bollards are ideal for path lighting. Manufactured in three different sizes, our LED bollards are best placed in garden beds or next to the pathway on either side. They create a nice wash across the path while illuminating plants and other features.
Wall lights – These are great if you have a wall near your stairway. Our LED recessed wall light has a modern angular feel.
Deck lights – Also great for stairs is our LED deck circle light. And as its name implies, deck lights are perfect on decks that are used for entertaining.
Garden spike lights – Our LED garden spike lights come in either cool or warm white. They are particularly ideal for geometric modern courtyards. By having a row of spotlights, you can capitalise on your courtyard’s angles and curves. And the best thing? The spike can be bent to give you the best angle of light. For smaller gardens and courtyards, the Piccolo 20 works like a charm.
Spotlights – Our LED garden spike light can double up as a spotlight. If you have architectural features you would like to highlight, spotlights are the way to go. They are ideal for illuminating potential danger areas such as the poolside. Just be careful not to throw too much light in the one spot because surrounding areas will turn pitch black.
Up and down lights – Any landscape lighting specialist will tell you that it’s just as much about the shade and shadow as it is about the illumination. Create powerful imagery by using backlighting to brighten sculptures and geometrical lines. If it’s a textured or coloured wall you want to show off, install a LED up and down light on the wall or nearby post.
Pivot lights – Do you have a water feature you would like to put on display? Create visual drama between light and shadow by throwing light at it. Our LED pivot light is perfect if you have a wall near the water feature. Mounted on a swivel arm it allows you to aim the light exactly where you want it.
Final thoughts
A few tips when creating your dream landscape lighting:
- Choose the right light fittings for the spot – garden lighting needs to be balanced and comfortable rather than overbearing and confusing. Ask yourself if you need to guide visitors to your front door and if your front gate and porch need to be well-lit. Decide whether horizontal or vertical light is needed. Horizontal placement helps people avoid trip hazards and obstacles on the ground. Vertical lighting allows you to see your visitors as they are approaching your house.
- Always prioritise safety – Make sure your pathways, stairs, steep slopes and retaining walls are well-lit but are not going to blind you or your visitors.
- Highlight your garden’s best features – This includes beautiful trees or sculptures. Then decide if you want to integrate reflections or lengthen a tree. Our lighting experts can help you create layers by carefully spotlighting individual elements to establish depth and harmony. Less is more when it comes to creating a balanced and stunning result.
- Don’t go over the top – It’s easy to over-light your garden. That’s why we recommend employing the professionals to do the job. Outdoor lighting is not about recreating a night-time football stadium. It’s about highlighting features to give you an inviting and intriguing environment to walk into.
It’s important to play with light and dark in order to create contrast and balance. The current trend in the world of outdoor lighting design is about including the night-time sky in your creation to reduce both energy and power usage.
Lasting words
As we lean towards the summer months, it’s time to think about lighting up your outdoor life. For an outdoor lighting specialist in Sydney, contact Bondilights and we will help you transform your night garden into one of mystery and intrigue.