What Types of Landscape Lighting Are There?
Landscape lighting does more than make a yard look good at night. It enhances safety, highlights key features, and adds value to every outdoor project. As a contractor, knowing the types of landscape lighting—and when to use each—helps you design smarter, more efficient systems for your clients.
Below, we’ll break down the main types of landscape lighting, their ideal uses, and key installation tips.
Path and Area Lighting
Purpose: Guide movement and create ambiance.
Path lights are the most common outdoor fixtures. They illuminate walkways, garden beds, and driveways while improving nighttime safety.
Best Practices:
Space fixtures 6–8 feet apart for even coverage.
Use low-voltage LED lights for energy efficiency.
Choose corrosion-resistant materials like brass or stainless steel for long-term durability.
Accent and Spot Lighting
Purpose: Highlight focal points.
Accent or spotlights are used to draw attention to trees, sculptures, or architectural details. They produce a focused beam, adding depth and dimension to outdoor designs.
Installation Tip:
Angle lights at 30–45 degrees to reduce glare and create natural-looking shadows.
Uplighting
Purpose: Create drama and emphasize structure.
Uplighting is achieved by placing fixtures at ground level and aiming light upward. It’s ideal for highlighting tall trees, textured walls, or stone facades.
Contractor Tip:
Use narrow-beam LEDs to control light spread and avoid washing out nearby features.
Downlighting (Moonlighting)
Purpose: Mimic natural moonlight and provide soft illumination.
Fixtures are installed high on trees or structures, shining light downward. This technique works well for patios, lawns, and seating areas.
Safety Note:
Secure wiring carefully along branches or architectural lines to protect against wind or wildlife damage.
Flood Lighting
Purpose: Provide broad, bright illumination.
Flood lights cover wide areas and are often used for driveways, sports courts, or building exteriors. They offer high lumen output and are useful for security.
Pro Tip:
Choose motion-sensor or photocell options to balance safety and energy savings.
Step and Deck Lighting
Purpose: Increase visibility and prevent tripping hazards.
Recessed or surface-mounted fixtures can be installed into deck boards, risers, or retaining walls.
Best Practice:
Install low-glare fixtures to avoid shining directly into guests’ eyes.
In-Ground and Well Lighting
Purpose: Create a clean, integrated look.
In-ground fixtures sit flush with the surface, making them ideal for driveways or pathways where visibility and durability matter.
Contractor Tip:
Use waterproof housings and proper drainage to prevent fixture damage.
String and Specialty Lighting
Purpose: Add atmosphere and creativity.
String lights, bollard lights, and color-changing LEDs are popular for patios, events, or modern outdoor designs. These fixtures add personality and warmth without major installation.
Design Insight:
Use warm color temperatures (2700–3000K) for comfort and a welcoming tone.
Choosing the Right Landscape Lighting System
When selecting fixtures, consider:
Client goals: Function, security, or aesthetics?
Power source: Low-voltage, solar, or line-voltage?
Maintenance: Easy access and weatherproof components.
Budget: Material and transformer quality affect lifespan and performance.
A professional lighting plan combines multiple fixture types to achieve balance, depth, and safety across the entire landscape.
Conclusion: Design Lighting That Elevates Every Project
Understanding the different types of landscape lighting helps you deliver projects that look stunning day and night. Mixing path, accent, and downlighting strategically transforms outdoor spaces into functional, inviting environments—something clients notice immediately.
For contractors, offering professional lighting design is an easy way to enhance your service portfolio and boost project value.
Ready to expand your outdoor lighting services? Start by creating a simple lighting demo area at your next jobsite to show clients the difference quality design makes.
FAQ
What’s the best landscape lighting for durability?
Solid brass and copper fixtures resist corrosion and age gracefully, making them ideal for long-term installs.
Can landscape lighting be energy-efficient?
Yes. Low-voltage LED systems reduce energy use by up to 80% and require minimal maintenance.
How long does landscape lighting last?
With quality fixtures and professional installation, most systems last 10–15 years with routine maintenance.