Layer the light
Combine path lights, uplights and deck lights so the yard has depth rather than one bright wash.
Highlight features
Uplight trees and architecture with warm, narrow beams.
Light the paths
Path lights guide guests and improve safety without glare.
Control it
Timers or a smart system turn lights on at dusk and off at night, and scenes can join entertainment modes.
Try the planner
Use our landscape lighting planner to place fixtures on a sample yard.
Fixture types
- Path lights: soft pools of light along walkways
- Up-lights and spot lights: trees, columns and facades
- Well lights: in-ground up-lights for a clean look
- Wall wash and grazing: stone and textured walls
- Deck and step lights: safety on stairs and edges
- Downlights: moonlighting from trees for a natural effect
Color and brightness
Warm white (around 2700K to 3000K) flatters homes and plants. Less is usually more: a few well-aimed fixtures look better than many bright ones. Aim fixtures after dark to avoid glare into windows and neighbors' yards.
Low voltage and wiring
Most landscape lighting is low voltage, powered by a transformer. Correctly sizing the transformer and wire runs keeps the last fixture as bright as the first. See Kichler and WAC Lighting.
Common questions
Can lights turn on at sunset?
Yes, with an astronomic timer, photocell or smart home control.
Do you design and install landscape lighting?
Yes. See landscape lighting.