LIGHTING
SHINE WITH SUBTLETY
AND WITH STRENGTH
‘I don’t want it to look like a runway,
or Blackpool Illuminations’!
Phrases that still emerge whenever
landscape lighting is discussed.
However, amazing effects can
be achieved with the right lights.
Paired with layout and the other
main factors of a design, lights can
become part of the entire creative
process; not just a rushed addition
or necessary afterthought.
Nowadays, more Designers and
Landscapers are being asked to
source and even install outdoor
lights on projects. Although this can
be a different area of understanding,
taking on the responsibility
to illuminate a garden, and
implementing this, can be hugely
gratifying for all parties.
Like other technology, many designs
on offer now are versatile, and
have more than one application.
Sometimes a strong light is required,
and there should be no fear of
specifying a powerful light when
necessary, for example to uplight a
large tree with a floodlight, or give
security and better access to a dark
area with high output LED bollards.
However, for ‘accent’ or ‘ornamental’
lighting, an element of subtlety is
favoured. ‘Glare’ should be avoided
wherever possible. This is a common,
undesirable consequence of using
lights that are simply too bright,
not positioned correctly or do not
direct light. Several factors reduce
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this problem, to be considered at
product buying stage.
Here are some helpful hints for
Anti-Glare Lighting:
• Purchase fittings that
accommodate a replaceable
LED light source. This way, if
illumination is too bright, try a bulb
with a lesser lumen output. If the
LED bulb ever fails, save a major re-
install by simply changing the lamp
rather than the whole fitting.
• Try removable accessories such as
frosted glass lenses or honeycomb
louvred filters. Frosted lenses
with a spotlight, soften the beam
effectively producing more of a
‘wash’ effect. Using a honeycomb
filter will modify and diffuse a
straight ‘spot’ beam.
• Use adjustable fittings for choice
and direction. It’s best to use
fittings that adjust to shine at
various angles such as Spikelights
for added versatility and to avoid
glare.
• Larger professional path lights
and bollards should have louvres
or slats in the head to direct light
downwards. Some also have
frosted diffusers.
• Use Spreadlights - specialist lights
that provide a glare-free non-
polluting pool of light for paths,
decks, terraces or low planting.
The light source can be located
under a ‘shade’ distinguishing
them from other Path lights.
• ‘Wash’ Walls for an even coverage
and to define a space softly or
create a backdrop.
Incorporating all types of lighting
including ‘anti-glare’ into your plans
couldn’t be easier - Lumena Lights
stock accessories including louvered
filters and removable frosted lenses,
with many lights available with
either clear or frosted lens options
dependent on effect required.
Many Professional Spreadlights are
available, including a fabulous new
edition- the Pro Solar Halopost Path
Light.
Check out the whole range at
www.lumenalights.com
Questions on outdoor lighting?
Ask the team on
[email protected]
Follow us @ludmagazine