Illuminating ideas: get your outdoor lighting spot on

Creating the perfect ambient lighting for any outdoor space can be relatively tricky – too dark and you won’t be able to see anything or use the space, too light and people will think you have moved Blackpool illuminations into your back garden.

The Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP) offer specific courses to teach people about landscape design and how to make the most out of your outdoor space, but for those of us not lucky enough to have been on the course then here are a few things to bear in mind.

Plan ahead

When it comes to garden lighting it is always best if you can consider this during the design phase of your landscape. This will allow you to plan ahead and make sure that any dangerous trailing cables are completely out of the way or hidden from sight. If you can, make sure that you keep your lighting as adaptable as possible, this means laying enough cable that will allow you to make slight adjustments as the garden grows and matures or if you add more planting.

Well lit doesn't always mean lit well

Having too many lights in one area doesn’t mean that the area will be lit well; it can have an adverse effect on the atmosphere that you are trying to create. If you are unsure then try experimenting with different styles of lighting in different areas. You could also play around with backlighting by using a portable light as a test and illuminate trees or shrubs to create a striking dramatic affect.

Be clever around seating areas

Including a specific seating area in your back garden can make a great place for you to sit, relax and unwind. If you don’t currently have anywhere to sit then consider the Rattan dining sets from Skyline Design - they offer some great pieces of furniture which, with cleverly situated lighting, will improve any outdoor space. It is important to take care with lights around seating areas to ensure that glare is not a factor or pointing in anyone’s eyes.

If possible try concealing the light source behind shrubs and pots and make sure there is a clear passage between the light source and the focal point so as not to cast anyone into shadow.

Know your IP Rating

Using electrical lights outdoors can be particularly dangerous if you don’t take the correct safety precautions. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating of a light will tell you about the safety of a light in an outdoor environment and will always contain two numbers which tells the users what they are protected against. The most common types of IP rating seen on outdoor lighting are:

• IP44 – For splash proof out door fittings such as wall lights
• IP65 – Lights that are water proof although not submersible such as walk over lights
• IP68 – Light fittings which are protected against long periods of immersion under pressure and are ideal for use in ponds and pools.

If you are unsure about using electrical lights outdoor then it is always advisable to contact a qualified electrician for tips and advice.

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