Interior and outdoor design Port Macquarie, Mid North Coast NSW
Outdoor lighting – design and installation
DESiGNiNG DIvas recently helped a young couple choose the colours and the materials on their custom build home in Port Macquarie. The clients had firm ideas of how the interior of their home should function for their lifestyle so it was a good starting point in which to guide them through the process of selecting complementary colurs and finishes and to point out what could have been costly mistakes. We changed the layout of the kitchen for better flow. The result? A cohesive, elegant custom home.
We got to discussing the outdoors. Especially how to incorporate lighting into the garden and pool area. Our expertise stops at the alfresco area. That’s why we have a great working relationship with a very talented landscape designer – Tyson Owen – managing director of Signature Landscapes (Port Macquarie). He arranged an on-site design consultation to map out the lighting plan.
Signature Landscapes love outdoor lighting. Every year there are new innovations. New ways of illuminating your outdoor spaces. 24 hours a day. New smart ways to transform your existing spaces with bespoke lighting. Long gone are the days when you go indoors because it’s dark outside.
Where to start? There is a bewildering choice of products, manufacturers, control systems and apps. Just check out pinterest for a starter. Too much choice? That’s why you absolutely need a lighting design to make the most of your outdoor spaces. A design to suit your home. For your lifestyle. For your enjoyment. For your safety and functionality. For wow factor. For entertaining. The outdoor lighting revolution really began with the introduction of low-voltage LED technology. Bringing the cost down and increasing the creative possibities.
If you are in the dark about what’s possible with outdoor lighting, or what would really suit your home’s garden, book an on-site lighting consultation with a qualified landscape designer who will disuss the best way to highlight the best features of your property. Front, back and sides.
Things to consider:
- Spotlighting & uplighting: Position spotlight spikes at the base of trees or feature plants to add depth, drama and dimension to your garden, often creating interesting shadows
- Moonlighting: Place light sources high in trees, aiming downwards to create a soft, romantic, filtered light effect that mimics moonlight
- Path & stair lighting: Use low-voltage path lights or bollards to guide – increasing security and, ambiance
- Deck & patio lighting: Install recessed deck lights on patios or stairs for safety and to define dining or relaxation zones
- Backlighting: Place lights behind a tree or plant to create a dramatic silhouette, accentuating the plant’s structure
- Water features: Submerge waterproof lights in ponds or fountains to make them sparkle
- Pool lighting: Party time when the sun goes down.
- Front porch lighting: Make a bold statement that says ‘Welcome’.
CUSTOM LIGHTING DESIGN
- Plan your layout: Identify key focal points and high usage areas before choosing fixtures
- Avoid over-lighting: Use light sparingly to create contrast; shadows are essential for creating atmosphere
- Use warm tones: Choose warm white LEDs to ensure the space feels cozy rather than clinical
- Safety first: Ensure all fixtures are rated for outdoor use and conceal wires under mulch or in conduit to prevent tripping .
- Hire professionals: For 240V, mains-powered, systems, always use a qualified electrician,
Whether you want to tackle the job yourseldf (easy enough for competent handy people) or let Signature Landscapes design and quote for full installation you can quickly, and inexpensively, transform your outdoor space. But you need a plan. A detailed design before you tackle the job.
If you think your home’s outdoor space could do with ligting and want a flash of inspiration contact Signature Landscapes to arrange an on-site lighting consultation. Every home deserves a Signature Landscape.
If you are needing help with external colours and finishes for your new home (or renovation) be sure to contact DESiGNiNG Divas.
