LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

Discover where to position your garden lighting for a design that is functional and adds atmosphere when the sun goes down

- SARAH WILSON Is an experienced gardens journalist and has studied garden and landscape design.

Knowing where to position landscape lighting allows you to dramatically enhance your outdoor space. Landscape lighting is a versatile tool you can use to showcase particular features you want to draw attention to, as well as being an easy way to give your outdoor space a professionallooking finish.

‘Most gardens will benefit from some form of landscape lighting, whether for security, to discourage intruders, for access, to define steps and pathways or for aesthetic effect,’ says garden designer Rosemary Alexander. As soon as your design plans are in place, the next step is to consider where your key garden lighting is needed most. The decision is generally determined by a few considerations like access, security and enhancing the aesthetics, with different types of lighting suitable for different areas. That might sound complicated, but lighting your outdoor space is easier than you might think once you know the key areas to prioritise.

ENTRANCES AND DOORWAYS

‘You can improve your home’s kerb appeal simply by choosing the correct lighting for your porch,’ says Julian Page, lighting expert and head of design at BHS. ‘Uplights and downlights on either side of your entryway offer a statement aesthetic, creating gorgeous pools of light that will attract the eye. Finish off the whole look with a porch ceiling light or lantern to create a central focal point that really ties the symmetrical look together.’