Trees are magical at night with simple uplighting.

A Techo-Bloc ‘Pure’ paver pathway

When we think of gardens, we immediately think of plants, stone, brick, benches etc. We tend to picture ourselves walking through or sitting out in the sunshine, enjoying the sights, fragrances and sounds. But one of the most magical things you can do in your landscape is to add lighting. Outdoor lighting is the absolute icing on the cake, that extra element that elevates the charm factor to a completely new level.

One of the most common lighting functions is uplighting, which is most often used to highlight trees, architecture, and statuary or artwork. The other is path lighting, which guides you through the garden and provides a measure of safety, as well. Both of these basic functions create a welcoming warmth to your home, and they also allow you to enjoy your garden more in the evenings, which might be the only time you’re home during the work week. Even if you’re stuck in the house, you’ve given yourself a beautiful view to enjoy. I especially like they way I don’t feel so closed in during these darker months of the year. Expanding my view out to the back of my garden makes me feel less mentally confined somehow.

If you’re starting your landscape design, be sure to include lighting in your final plans. If you already have a garden but don’t have any lights yet- I can help with that!