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Fully seven-eighths of the information we
receive from our senses comes to us through our sense of sight.
The reflection of light off of objects is essential for us to see.
Whether it is natural light from the sun or moon, or artificial light
from lamps, light fixtures, and lighting systems, we are affected
intellectually, emotionally, and physically by light.
Although we can't control the light from the sun and moon, we can
control what we see at night by using artificial lighting to selectively
illuminate or conceal things. Lighting is a powerful tool that can
be used to shape the way a place looks. It can show what is important in an
environment, guide us to an entrance, and help us avoid hazards.
 Safety
On
the practical side, outdoor lighting helps you see where you are walking
at night or helps create an air of hospitality. It helps you see
if there are any abrupt changes in elevation or hazards that could cause
you or your visitors injury from an accidental fall. There are
many things to consider when designing a lighting system that helps
promote safety for you and your guests. One of the most important
things is light placement. Lights must be positioned so they do
not shine directly into the eyes of the homeowner or their
visitors. The more subtle the lighting, especially when
illuminating pathways, the more effective. A light too bright can
cause glare and actually create more of a hindrance than good.
Also, placement of light fixtures along walkways must be placed so that
they do not become a potential tripping hazard or a nuisance when mowing
or removing snow.
 Security A properly designed lighting system can also be
instrumental in providing a sense of security for you and your
home. In fact, the number one reason most homeowners decide to
install outdoor lighting is to help protect their home from burglars or
other trespassers. Many poor lighting designs have been installed
in the name of "security". Most people think that bright
outdoor lighting will help make their home safer from thieves, but
statistics show that sometimes bright lighting actually causes an
increase in theft. Poorly done night lighting can cause shadows
that can make it easier for thieves to hide. Using lower light levels is considered the
most effective way to provide security lighting for your home.
Lights installed for safety and illumination will provide good
low-contrast lighting to help protect your home. Properly installed,
low-contrast lighting will help eliminate shadows, plus make it easier
for your eyes to adjust to seeing in the dark. If you choose to
employ bright lighting for security in key areas, we suggest that you
install lights with motion-sensors or easily accessed switches inside
the house.
 Aesthetics Not only can a properly designed outdoor
lighting system help with security and safety for the outside of your
home, its most dramatic effect is how it increases the aesthetics of
your home. An outdoor lighting system can completely change the way
you view or utilize your home after the sun goes down. Outdoor
lighting can expand your living space by illuminating decks, yards, and
garden areas making them usable anytime of day or it can simply add to
the beauty of your home making it more appealing to you or your
visitors. A good lighting plan can help you entertain guests
outside and prolong recreational activities after dark. Well
placed lights can enhance any landscaping design. Outdoor lighting
can bring out the hidden beauty of shrubs, trees, flower beds or even
the construction design of your home. There are many techniques that the
professional landscape lighting contractor can use to enhance all
aspects of your home. Please visit our products page for more
information on different styles of lighting techniques.
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