Chicago Lightscaping: Professional Outdoor Lighting Design and Installation

Your power source affects installation complexity, operating costs, and lighting capabilities. Four primary options serve different purposes:

Solar fixtures require no wiring and cost nothing to operate. They work well for pathway markers and accent pieces in areas with consistent sun exposure. Solar works less reliably in shaded locations or during extended cloudy periods.

Low voltage systems operate at 12-24 volts, making them safer and simpler to install than line voltage alternatives. LED low voltage fixtures deliver excellent illumination while consuming minimal power. These systems excel at highlighting plants, trees, and architectural details.

Line voltage lighting runs on standard 120-volt household current. These fixtures produce more intense light and work best for illuminating large areas. Installation requires a licensed electrician and often involves trenching or conduit work.

Fuel-burning fixtures like torches and lanterns create ambiance through open flame. They need careful placement away from flammable materials and regular fuel replenishment.

Types of Outdoor Lighting Applications

Different lighting applications solve specific problems across the various areas of your property that need to be illuminated:

Accent lighting draws attention to specimen plants, water features, sculptures, or interesting architectural elements. Spotlights and well lights typically handle accent applications. Position these fixtures at ground level to project upward onto trees and architectural plantings. Adjustable fixtures allow you to redirect beams as plants grow and mature.

Architectural lighting emphasizes your home's design features and creates curb appeal. Uplights can showcase columns or interesting facade textures. Wall-mounted fixtures highlight entryways and create welcoming approaches. Consider your architectural style when selecting fixtures—contemporary homes suit clean-lined fixtures while traditional architecture pairs with classic lantern styles.

Sports court lighting makes evening basketball games or tennis matches possible. These installations require significant light output and even coverage across playing surfaces. Proper placement prevents shadows and glare that interfere with play.

Pool area lighting improves safety around water features while creating relaxing atmospheres. This application requires specialty waterproof fixtures rated for wet locations. Underwater fixtures illuminate pool interiors while above-water lighting handles decks and furniture areas. Under-cap hardscape lights tuck beneath masonry walls and supply subtle highlights around pool perimeters. Color-changing LED options allow customization for different moods. Safety remains the top priority when illuminating areas near water.

Patio, deck, and gazebo lighting extends outdoor living hours and creates inviting spaces for entertaining. Overhead fixtures provide general illumination while accent lights create mood. Installing deck lights often involves recessed fixtures that stay flush with walking surfaces to prevent tripping hazards. For pergolas and gazebos, ultra-thin recessed lights less than an inch thick install easily using spring clip mechanisms without requiring traditional cans. String lights and festoon lighting create ambiance for entertainment areas, while pendant lights and chandeliers bring indoor elegance outdoors when properly rated for wet or damp locations.

Pathway and walkway lighting prevents trips and falls while guiding visitors along intended routes. Low-profile fixtures mark edges without creating glare. Standard path lights stand 12-24 inches tall and space 8-15 feet apart depending on beam spread. For continuous illumination along flat paths, fixtures with 16-foot beam spreads typically space about 16 feet apart, while narrower beams require closer placement. Consider low voltage LED path lights for energy efficiency and simplified installation.

Driveway lighting needs consistent illumination from edge to entry. Bollard lights work well along driveway edges, providing visibility while creating a welcoming entrance. These fixtures typically stand 16-30 inches tall and offer 360-degree light distribution. For curved driveways, staggered placement on alternating sides maintains even coverage. Paired bollards flanking gates or driveway entrances establish formal entry points while providing practical illumination.

Step and stairway lighting requires dedicated illumination to prevent accidents at grade changes. Recessed step lights mount flush with risers, illuminating each tread without creating glare. Step riser lights supply subtle highlights and can deliver soft ambiance while improving safety. These specialty fixtures need proper waterproofing and impact resistance since they're frequently stepped near.

Motion-activated security lighting deters intruders and alerts you to activity. These fixtures stay dark until movement triggers them, covering vulnerable entry points like side yards and back doors. Adjust sensitivity to prevent false triggers from animals while maintaining security effectiveness. Dark corners around properties attract unwanted visitors, making strategic placement essential.

Inground fixtures sit flush with ground level and project light upward. They create dramatic effects when aimed at trees or architectural features. Also called well lights, these powerful fixtures provide exceptional brightness and work well for accentuating pergolas and surrounding landscape elements. Available in both single color and color-changing varieties, they come with built-in long-life LEDs that eliminate the need to replace bulbs.

Garden and landscape bed lighting highlights seasonal color, interesting textures, and specimen plantings throughout your property. Low voltage systems work particularly well in garden applications since you can easily add fixtures as your landscape evolves. Position spotlights to emphasize design features without overwhelming softer plantings.

Professional landscape lighting installation companies combine multiple lighting types to achieve layered effects. Mixing ambient, accent, and task lighting creates depth and visual interest throughout your outdoor environment.