Outdoor Lighting Concepts
There are a variety of ways to utilize outdoor lighting. Different lighting concepts can make small buildings look large and large buildings look majestic, but there are more subtle ways to use outdoor lighting that can be just as effective. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basic Types
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There are two main types of outdoor lighting. One is sky tracker lighting, which involves using light beams to attract attention to buildings that are as far away as 18 miles. The other type is architectural lighting, or any lighting that illuminates buildings, statues or plant life.
Function
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Outdoor lighting can serve a variety of functions. Contractors using outdoor lighting focus on three basic aspects: beauty, safety and security.
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Creating Beauty
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Creating outdoor beauty is the primary focus of outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting can be used to create ambiance on patios and decks while making the exterior of a home look more dynamic and attractive from the sidewalk. Up-lighting several trees in a front yard, for example, can provide symmetry and elegance to the appearance of a home.
Safety
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Although aesthetics are of the utmost importance to many people, those looking to incorporate outdoor lighting should also consider the safety and security outdoor lighting provides. Outdoor lighting can improve safety by illuminating walkways and boundaries, such as those by a pool or pond. Properly illuminating these areas can help people avoid falls or other potential dangers.
Security
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Security is another effective use of outdoor lighting. By illuminating entryways, dark walkways and garages, homeowners can help deter potential intruders.
Examples of Outdoor Lighting
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While there are several different ways to incorporate outdoor lighting, some common examples include up-lighting, silhouetting and path lighting. According to landscaping company Ewing, up-lighting is the most common use of outdoor lighting. Up-lighting is the use of lights at the base of trees, statues or the exterior of homes. These lights, when pointed at an upward angle, provide a simple but effective look to a home's exterior. Silhouetting is slightly more complex, as it involves back-lighting an object in the foreground in order to provide depth to an outdoor scene, according to Ewing.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Modern church in night lights image by Vasyl Dudenko from Fotolia.com
