3.15 LANDSCAPE LIGHTING DESIGN

1.) LANDSCAPE LIGHTING3.15 LANDSCAPE LIGHTING DESIGN

The art of landscape lighting usually merges with the field of architectural lighting design. The field of landscape lighting also goes hand in hand with the relatively new architectural specialty, the landscape architect.

The landscape lighting designer is responsible for large outdoor (usually) lighting designs consisting mainly of flora and foliage. Often the lighting design includes, trees, pools, bridges, paths, fountains, sculptures, benches, rest areas and much more.

The landscape lighting designer has similar goals to other lighting designers. He is often lighting for visibility, mood, atmosphere and interest, just as does the stage lighting designer for a dramatic presentation. The landscape lighting designer also usually has an additional concern in that he often must light for safety first and atmosphere and impact second.

2.) LANDSCAPE LIGHTING - TECHNIQUES

Most landscape lighting makes use of miniature low voltage lighting fixtures. A low voltage system is mandatory to ensure greater safety and to reduce risk from electrical shock, as the fixtures and wiring are often operated under wet conditions.

Fixtures are typically located at ground level to uplight plants and shrubs or may be placed on trees to uplight (or downlight) the trunks. Other landscape lighting fixtures include the use of illuminated bollards. These post like fixtures come in a wide variety of types and are typically used to illuminate paths, foliage or other exterior areas. Decorative lampposts, available in an unlimited number of designs are also commonly used.

Usually landscape lighting is placed on a control system that turns the system 'on' or 'off' at specific times. Alternately a system might use a photocell control, turning the system on at dusk and off at dawn.