Outdoor lighting can be purely decorative or it can serve a purpose but the best designs are a combination of the two. Garden lighting can enable you to see where you are going, to light up a path or illuminate a doorway or it can be used to create atmosphere in a garden. Plan your lighting scheme carefully and don’t be tempted to use too many different effects. A simple lighting scheme will be more dramatic than a range of different styles.

When choosing garden lighting, think about how it will complement your garden’s style. Fun fairy lights can instantly create a party mood in your outdoor space and can be simply strung up from trees or around a doorway to create a magical, contemporary feel. Or hang up lanterns from branches or hooks in a wall to create an intimate outdoor room. What might look kitsch in the daytime, can look fabulous and funky at night.

With clever use of garden lighting you can transform your outdoor space into a magical sanctuary or a party centrale. And if your garden is well lit, you can enjoy being outside until late into the evening. A beautifully lit up garden can raise your spirits in the winter months by providing an uplifting back-drop to look out onto from the comfort of indoors.

Use garden lighting to highlight the features of the garden that you want to focus on. If you’ve got a garden sculpture or a water feature, why not direct a light onto it so that it is clearly illuminated at night. Alternatively lighting up a beautiful tree from behind can throw dramatic and enchanting shadows whilst lights positioned under a tree will cast a subtle light. But don’t be tempted to use too many spotlights; keeping the lighting simple with make for a more dramatic effect.

If you are considering installing a high-voltage garden lighting system, you should always consult a qualified electrician. Installing low-voltage outdoor lights is a relatively simple job, but if you are at all uncertain, take professional advice. A low voltage garden lighting kit will come with a transformer. This must always be protected from the weather and positioned indoors or in a garage.

For a special occasion, line a path with candles or flares or group candles together for a magical feel. Storm lanterns will protect candles from being blown out by the wind. Never leave candles, flares or lanterns unattended in a garden. Candles are a great way to light a protected area and citronella candles also serve to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Outdoor lighting that comes on when you approach your front door may deter burglars. It is always a good idea to illuminate garden steps and paths to ensure you or your guests don’t trip up. In such an instance, garden lighting becomes a safety feature.

At The Urban Garden, you will find a variety of outdoor lighting solutions to suit your needs.