Landscape & Urban Design Issue 78 2026 | Page 86

LIGHTING

RESPONSIBLE ILLUMINATION: WILDLIFE-CONSCIOUS LIGHTING IN LANDSCAPE PROJECTS

In sensitive landscapes, light must be installed responsibly with consideration to natural surroundings. As awareness grows around bat roosts and ecologically sensitive sites, landscapers are often required to specify fittings that minimise upward light, reduce glare and limit disturbance. At Lumena Lights, wildlife-conscious design sits at the heart of our 12V, 240V and solar ranges, helping you create safe, compliant and beautifully considered landscapes.
For existing 50mm fittings such as our AlvaLED( available in both 12V and 240V), a simple yet effective adaptation is the addition of a 50mm frosted glass lens. By diffusing and softening the beam, the frosted lens reduces harsh glare and contrast. This is particularly beneficial for bats and owls, as a more even spread of light lessens visual disruption along flight paths and feeding routes. Reduced glare also limits sharp shadow lines, helping maintain natural orientation cues. Insects benefit too; softer, warmer and diffused light is generally less attractive and less disorientating than intense, exposed point sources. For further control, a honeycomb filter narrows and directs the beam, reducing spill light and improving light placement without increasing output.
Low-level guidance lighting is equally important. Eyelite( 12V and 240V) and Monolite( 240V) step lights provide discreet illumination for safe navigation while keeping light directed to the ground. Designs such as the Charleston Spreadlight eliminate upward glare with a broad shade, casting light downwards only. For pathways and commercial sites, our 12V Mini Walkway and 240V Marina( 316 stainless steel) and Fortress bollards are engineered for minimal to no uplight, with optional 180 ΒΊ Glare Shields for Ledifice, Lighthouse and Parabola models to further reduce spill. Our Pro Solar range offers a truly hassle-free solution. With integrated light receptors, fittings such as the Halopost( 0 % upward light),
Lava, Eccentrica, Bastion, Arc, Cresta, Endura and Hiway deliver controlled, warm illumination – many between 2500K and 2700K – without trenching or mains cabling. PIR and photocell sensors, available across most 12V and 240V fittings, ensure light is used only when required.
Wildlife is not an afterthought; it is a responsibility. At Lumena Lights, we combine considered optics, warmer colour temperatures( including 1800K amber options across our Pro Bollard range) and robust, highquality materials to deliver lighting that respects its surroundings. Share your plans with us, and our team will assist with layout, cabling distances and product specification – helping you achieve a scheme that is both beautifully lit and ecologically sound.
For enquiries, please contact sales @ lumenalights. com or call us today at 01327 871161.
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