What is the Purpose of Landscape Lighting?

May 10, 2017

Humans hate the dark. But a lot more than the primal fear of darkness explains the purpose of landscape lighting. Other reasons include improving visibility, extending the day, enhancing commerce, feeling safer and fear of litigation, according to the Smart Outdoor Lighting Alliance.

The alliance cites statistics from the U.S. Department of Energy that states that 75% of the United States’ outdoor lighting will be using light-emitting-diode (LED) technology by 2020. The organization says that represents an opportunity to vastly improve the quality of outdoor lighting while saving energy.

Fact is, the quality of light is more important but often more overlooked than the quantity of light. It can’t be measured with a light meter and requires expertise to execute it, though it contributes to better visibility, the alliance explains.

Safety First

In an article by Lithonia Lighting’s Richard V. Morse reprinted by the National Lighting Bureau from Apartment Management Magazine, providing outdoor light is a means to an end.

For example, outdoor lighting helps enhance security by denying vandals and burglars the cover of darkness. Apartment managers know this and are often at the forefront of lighting technology for that reason.

For commercial buildings and apartments, reduction in vandalism and burglary lowers maintenance and insurance costs. For homeowners, it improves their sense of safety and well-being.

Creating the Mood

In addition to safety and security, outdoor lighting can accent your landscaping and give it character. An article by the University of Minnesota’s Extension highlights some of the ways you can highlight the landscaping around your home or business.

These include:

Flood lights on the ground facing up can highlight special trees, signs and architectural features. These lights can also be seen from indoors and can extend the living space at night.
Lights facing down can imitate moonlight and provide security to an area such as a back door. These spotlights should be hidden from view to give the impression the light is natural.
Backlights placed behind objects or plants can cast silhouettes on walls for a striking effect.
Path lights can be installed along sidewalks, driveways to safely lead people from one place to another. These lights are generally low to the ground and cast a spreading light.
Specialty lights create a special mood, especially in the evenings. Examples include string lights, flickering lights that resemble torches and underwater lights that highlight a water feature such as a waterfall.

Please call Empowered Global at 239-947-2375 if you’re considering upgrading or installing new landscape lighting for your home or business. Our experts can provide you with a consultation that will help you determine the purpose of landscape lighting and select the right lights for you.