How to Design Low Voltage Landscape Lighting

Determine what type of lighting will be needed for each section of the landscape that's to be illuminated. There are a number of different options. For putting the spotlight on a specific piece, select a light that can be hidden either up in a nearby tree (for a technique called downlighting) or nestled in some ground cover or shrubbery (for a technique called uplighting). Strings of lights can be hidden along a bench or the overhang of a gazebo. For lighting a path, there are seemingly endless types of path lights from simple plastic bulbs to elaborate lanterns.

Decide on a lighting theme. For the visible lights along pathways, over patios and porches, and those on lamposts, a similiar theme will tie the lighting scheme together. Some landscape designs will lend themselves to a theme; for example, an English garden would be easily complemented with Victorian style lighting reminiscent of the gas lights on the streets of London. Other ideas can include a simple, rustic look, a Gothic style of lights decorated with gargoyles, or a chunky Western look.

Sketch where the lighting will be located on the drawing of the area to be landscaped. Make sure that the distances are accurate; this will help determine how many pathway, bullet and well lights are needed, as well as how long string lights will need to be. This will also help point out any potential problems.

Venture outside in the twilight hours if the landscape is already in place. Don't just look at the area close up, see what it looks like from the road and from the outlying edges of the property--anywhere anyone might be viewing the design and the lighting. Make sure it's not going to be too overwhelming. Too much lighting is worse than not enough.