Garden lighting is the final frontier, the ultimate way to bring theatre and drama into your daily life. At night the garden turns into a place of mystery, of dark shadows, rustling and noises from unseen sources. A sense of wilderness returns after dark, even to the most suburban garden. Don't thinkthat garden lighting should be used to banish this effect, rather it should enhance it. Enter the world of the surreal, leave everyday stress behind.
Lights can spring into being as you enter your driveway, illuminating paths, trees and doors. Subtle lights can glow out in front and fade behind as you wander down a leafy path. Trees and shrubs take on new form as they are dramatically back or up-lit. Water glows under waterfalls and fountains look like sparks of fire.
Lighting is more effective for being minimal. Drama is only achieved when offset by the dark that surrounds it. A focal point at the end of the garden is dramatic when lit, yet not unless the area between it and you is in darkness. If your garden ends up looking like a supermarket car park, you've overdone it!
Of course, there are different degrees of lighting for different times and purposes. When eating out on a terrace, sufficient lighting is required to see, yet even then it does not want to be too even or too bright. Low voltage lights may provide background light, but oil lamps and candles provide the best intimate effect, for there is not an artificial light invented that can beat the flicker of a real flame. In this respect, fire pits and log burning patio heaters are unbeatable, where such things are allowed. A burning log conjures up wide hinterland, or deep forest. To a cave dweller, light was the only offer of security and warmth in a harsh, wild, world of which we can only dream. Yet we too, can still find connection through the mesmerising rhythms of fire.
If then, there is a primal fear of the dark, outside lighting can help abate that feeling. Security need not be provided by ugly rectangular flood lights, although these will suffice for the most basic of purposes. Dark side passages are more welcoming for light and thieves are likely to be deterred if their actions might be seen. Apart from aspects of security and function, there is a real relief, especially in the depths of winter, provided by cheerful displays of light. Many working people do not really see their gardens in the daylight at this time of year and for them, lighting is especially heartening.
This rill makes a stunning feature at night. Close to the house, it provides maximum visual drama.
For me, the play between the primal elements of light and water are especially rewarding. Both are intangible elements - elusive, hard to grasp or hold, impermanent yet ever present. They are opposite in qualities, light and fire rises above water, yet water falls from the sky. The interplay of opposites is endless and sculptural use of water and light, if done well, is truly inspiring.
Once the inspiration and desire for lighting has set in (there is no going back!) an understanding of the physical layout and components is required. Essentially this consists of: mains supply, switching mechanism; transformers; lights. Don't even consider mains lighting in the garden unless you really cannot find what you require in low voltage, which is so much safer.
As to types of light unit, the variety is endless, although they fall into a few broad categories: spike spots, for upward illumination and back lighting, pole lights, which cast a downward light onto paths, recessed lights, into paving or walls (especially good for steps), wall lights, which give downward light and under water lights. Coloured lenses can add drama, but should be used with care or they will look gimmicky. Buy the best quality you can, remembering that less is more.
Go on, let your imagination loose. Experience the elemental drama of the night. Your life may never be the same again?
For more information, see the Garden Lighting Construction Notes section.