In most instances, experienced outdoor lighting designers want the landscape lighting fixtures they use to just disappear into the landscape. Landscape lighting for atmosphere and ambience generally adheres to the creed “see the effect, not the source.” But there are opportunities when the fixtures themselves can and should be used as design elements, adding to the overall style of the home and outdoor décor to reflect the personality of the homeowner.
Although lighting designed to highlight trees, sculptures, plantings and architecture are best invisible, hidden behind plants, rocks or other items in the landscape, pathway fixtures will almost always be in view. There is a huge variety in these type of lighting fixtures to appeal to the equally wide variety of tastes and style preferences among homeowners.
If a home has a very rustic feel and design, constructed of rock and/or stucco as is very common in the central Texas hill country, we probably would avoid using sleek, contemporary fixtures in the landscape; and, of course, we would generally avoid using really rustic fixtures in a more modern setting, as is seen more often in Austin. A designer probably won’t put a contemporary, streamlined or futuristic looking fixture in a formal flower garden, but may want instead a fixture that still has some “style” and not a plain product. Almost anything can be found to suit the needs and desires of the planners and decision-makers. Even so, new fixtures can be fashioned to give homeowners exactly what they want to make the fashion statement they choose. We have recently had the occasion to create from scratch and have built fixtures that were very contemporary in shape, but with a rusted, weathered finish.
There are also product lines available from manufacturers such as Kichler and Hanover that feature landscape and home exterior fixtures that match. This works very well for homes where every design element is scrutinized precisely, and the client wants a singular cohesive theme across the home.
Fixtures can also become works of art and focal points all by themselves. We have found that a tall rusty obelisk type fixture, an enchanting lighted birdbath or a whimsical tree frog fixture can be great conversation pieces while also illuminating a step or path.
So don’t be afraid to think about exposed fixtures and how they can become part of the exterior design of your home and yard. The possibilities truly are endless!
Contact us here if you would like us to help you choose the right fixtures for your walkways.
