A variety of lighting techniques are available to highlight landscaped gardens, backyards, paths, waterways, plantings, nooks and crannies etc in houses. Lighting or spotlighting can be used to focus attention on a specific interior element such as an artifact, plant or a mural. Moonlighting or downlighting, like the moon, focuses soft light downwards on desired areas such as plant beds, walkways, etc. This type of lighting fixture can be used to mimic the soft, cool moonlight. Many dramatic effects can be achieved through moonlight. The road lighting is designed to outline the road. These fixtures are placed in the ground and more often consist of solar fixtures.
A combination of these techniques can be used when designing the backyard landscape. LED lighting, both plain and colored, adds dramatic appeal to the garden.
Energy efficient lighting
Energy-efficient furniture can be used in the design of outdoor lighting. The use of LED or solar cell lamps significantly reduces energy consumption. These bulbs, apart from serving the utilitarian purpose, also enhance the aesthetics. They are bright enough to be used for safety reasons. By using reflectors, deflectors and covers we not only protect more efficient power while reducing light pollution. The decorative lights should be equipped with timers and other controls to turn them off when not needed.
Outdoor lighting systems come in two configurations – high voltage and low voltage. The low voltage configuration is more suitable for residential purposes and is cheaper to install fixtures. The low voltage systems use transformers to reduce the voltage to the required 12V limit. High voltage systems are large and brighter and are often used by commercial businesses and in some homes where lighting is used. Installation of high voltage systems is complicated and requires professional help and licensing.
