Garden lighting, including outdoor building illumination, is provided by a system of fixtures. It emphasizes individual elements and creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Undoubtedly the main goal is to get the best effect.
Except creating an ambient atmosphere, garden lighting has to emphasize certain elements and secure safety at night. The typical outdoor illumination plan is designed in a few important lines. The first light line outlines the borders of the whole garden. Usually, this line is referred to as contour lighting. The fixtures are compact and in most cases they are unnoticeable in day time. The second line has a decorative function – it illuminates the plants – bushes, rocks and trees. A good idea is to use halogen lamps in green shades as they make the plants and trees look alive. For a better visual effect, fixtures should be positioned on a distance from the objects. The third line in the outdoor lighting plan is the one that illuminates the paths. This line can be accomplished with hidden or visible light fixtures. Low bodies with good optics can scatter light to a large area, without interfering with the eyes. The distance between the bodies depends on their size. Low lights are recommended for small gardens because they keep the coziness of the space.
The high quality garden lights has high-end optics and maximum effect is achieved with energy saving fixtures. The glass which is used in high quality outdoor fixtures usually has is a diffuser, whose prisms create an even glow. Three types of glass are most popular in the production of outdoor lights – the so-called security type is tempered with maximum impact resistance and optical structure inside. The white opal glass is used in private gardens and has a better optical structure. Crystal glass has an optical structure, which allows a maximum light direction. Outdoor lighting fixtures should be treated with special paints which are resistant to scratching and corrosion. The body itself must be able to protect the lamp against electrical damage.
