Lighting Alfresco

Specialist garden and architectural lighting for private gardens and restaurants
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Types of lighting
Lighting techniques

Lighting considerations

The end results of well designed and correctly installed lighting and sound systems can be captivating. Below are some of the most important factors to be taken into account when planning an installation, all of which we will walk you through as a part of our design and installation services.

-          The lifestyle of the garden user and the purposes for the lighting - we believe these are the most important criteria and the reason the lighting is being installed in the first place! These are discussed in more detail in Your open air lifestyle.

-          The size, style and location of the house/restaurant/hotel and its garden – large, small, formal, informal, modern, old, country, city, etc.

-          Lighting techniques – the combination of lighting techniques used to fulfil the purpose(s) and create the unique ambience. Examples include feature or spotlighting, cross lighting, downlighting, path/step lighting, shadowing, silhouetting, spread lighting, uplighting, and even moonlighting!

-          Types of lighting – include electric (high and low voltage), solar powered, heating, fibre optic, candles and torches. Beam angle, colour, power/wattage, power sources, and lengths of wiring runs are of prime consideration.

-          Positioning of luminaries - great care must be taken when positioning luminaries to create the desired effect (usually concealing the source of light).

-          Activation - the method(s) by which the lighting systems are turned on - e.g. manually, automatically at dusk/dawn, by movement, on a timer, etc. A combination of methods is typical with path/step/entrance lighting on from dusk until a pre-determined time (or until dawn), patio lighting or dining areas and ornamental lighting operated manually or on a timer, and some specific lights activated by movement for security purposes. Remote activation using wireless systems is also possible.

-          Operating cost and longevity - some high quality luminaries are guaranteed for as much as 25 years, and bulbs will typically last for 5000 hours or more, and while changing a bulb can be a simple process, the goal should be to install a system that will operate reliably and require the minimum amount of maintenance

-          Security, safety and, vandalism - a correctly designed installation will not only extend the hours of pleasure you get from your garden, but it will also make it safer to negotiate paths, steps, water features, driveways and entrances at night, and make your home less attractive to thieves. Whilst vandalism is a consideration in restaurants and hotels, in all cases accidental damage to luminaries and injury to people or animals must be taken into account when selecting types of lighting, routing wiring, and positioning luminaries.

-    As part of a landscaping/construction project or added to an established garden - whilst lighting is commonly added as a part of a landscaping project, often the greatest pleasure is gained by adding lighting to unveil the beauty of an established garden after dark.

-          Combined with music and/or water features - whether entertaining or just relaxing in a garden, the experience is one of a combination of all senses - the most magical results are produced when the designer has considered the sights, sounds, fragrances, and even tactile nature of the surroundings.

-    Glare and light pollution - glare from lights can not only be uncomfortable, but in the case of path or step lighting it can also be dangerous. Reflectors, louvre accessories (such as eyelids), and careful positioning can ensure that the light is focused where it is needed. Light pollution should be a consideration in all situations whether in a city location where light may be a nuisance to neighbours, or in a country location where it may disturb wildlife - again careful planning can ensure that light pollution is avoided.

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