Landscape Lighting IDEAS Pictures

How much light do I basically need to create a pleasant outdoor atmosphere?

Not all that much if you’re just lighting objects in the yard. As we find with small, desk mounted task lamps, you can make a little go a long way by placing a small amount of light just where you need it. Keep in mind that at night, your eyes are already adjusted to the dark. If you keep overall light levels low, then the contrast between light and shadow of a highlighted exterior feature can create a much more dramatic effect.

If you have a favorite outdoor reading area, consider putting a spot in a tree or above in a pergola, and direct the light down, over your shoulder. For outdoor dining / entertaining, you really do not need a lot of light, and there are many ways you can create a great summertime entertainment center with light. In the end, you do want to create a casual, relaxed mood for your outdoor space.

What is color temperature?

Don’t forget about color temperature, as light quality is just as important as light quantity. Color temperature is measured on a Kelvin (K) scale. You can find the color temperature for a light bulb listed on its packaging. Color temperatures 3500K and above are generally considered to be cooler temperatures that become bluer in tone (towards a clear midday sun) as the value goes up. Temperatures 3000K and below are considered warmer. As values decrease, the light assumes a more amber tone.

Stay away from cooler color temperatures when lighting outdoor landscapes. The bluish tones from cooler temperatures can make environments appear sickly or unnatural, imparting a sense of uneasiness, and being on edge. Instead, opt for lighting with a very warm color temperature: 2700K LED is ideal, and 3000K is okay, too. The 2700K temperature offers a very soothing and natural tone that mimics the warm, comforting glow of a campfire. As such, it is ideal for creating relaxing, comfortable outdoor environments.

Remember that color temperature refers to variations in the appearance of white light, and it is completely different from RGB LED lighting. Relatively new, RGB LED fixtures offer the possibility to add colored LEDs into lighting designs. Use RGB LEDs sparingly outdoors; reserve them to create a temporary party atmosphere.

DID YOU KNOW?

According to the US Department of Energy, LED bulbs can be six to seven times more energy efficient than incandescent lights, save over 80% more energy, and last 25+ times as long as traditional light bulbs.

Now you can add LED lighting to your outdoor landscaping fixtures. The Soraa Outdoor LED is the first LED MR16 that works in enclosed, unventilated or sealed metal fixtures (except aluminum). It uses only 9.5W and replaces 35W halogen lamps!