Things to Know Before You Invest in Landscape Lighting

Posted January 4, 2024 in 3D Design, Blog, Design/Build, General, Landscape Lighting, outdoor design, Outdoor Technology, Plant and Tree, Videos

Ensuring that your backyard is well-lit after sunset is crucial for your safety and overall enjoyment, but many times we tend to overlook the significance of outdoor lighting. The truth is that the right outdoor lighting plays a vital role in preventing accidents, tripping hazards, and other potential dangers. So, by strategically placing lights throughout your yard, you can transform it into a welcoming outdoor living space that can be enjoyed both during the day and at night, all while enhancing the security of your home.

To help you effectively plan your landscape lighting for safety and security, here are some valuable tips to consider:

  • Identify key areas: 

Start by identifying the key areas in your backyard that require lighting. Usually, you will want to make sure pathways, stairs, entrances, and outdoor seating areas are well-lit, and by focusing on these areas you can enhance safety and prevent accidents.

  • Choose the right type of lighting:

There are various types of outdoor lighting available, such as path lights, spotlights, floodlights, and string lights. Before you commit to outdoor lighting make sure to consider the purpose of each area and choose the appropriate type of lighting for each zone.

For example, you will probably want to use path lights along walkways for visibility, spotlights for highlighting trees or architectural features, and floodlights for overall illumination. But for your outdoor dining and lounging areas you may want to consider a softer light that adds the right aesthetic like string lights.

  • Use a variety of lighting techniques:

Instead of relying solely on one type of lighting, consider incorporating a variety of lights to create depth and interest. This can include uplighting, downlighting, silhouetting, and shadowing.

We recommend experimenting with different angles and positions to achieve the desired effect when it comes to selecting the right outdoor lighting. This is why we help you create a custom 3D design video that can help you visualize many options when it comes to selecting your outdoor lighting, and let you feel how your new outdoor living space will look day or night before you commit to any part of your build.

What You Need to Know About Landscape Lighting →

  • Choose energy-efficient options:

LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor lighting due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. Since they consume less energy, produce less heat, and require fewer replacements compared to traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs, consider investing in LED fixtures to save on energy costs. The initial investment might be a little more expensive, however, in the long run, the money you save on electricity, maintenance, and replacements will pay off.

  • Know how much your lighting will cost:

The cost of landscape lighting can quickly add up, considering the durable materials needed to withstand various weather conditions. So, to avoid any surprises when it comes to your project budget, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of all of the expenses associated with your project before you commit to a builder. So make sure your scope of work and associated designs offer transparency and honest numbers when it comes to committing to your budget.

At MasterPLAN, we recognize that budget and quality are the most significant factors in any project. And we know when it comes to your landscape lighting decisions, it is essential to collaborate with a knowledgeable partner who can assist you in comprehending both short-term and long-term investment costs. This is why we make your unique journey stress-free by using our award-winning design/build process to handle all aspects of your project including your budget development and management, communication with your HOA and township, developing your plans, obtaining your building permits, managing all engineering, schedule your inspections and so much more!

Schedule a pressure-free design consult →


If you’re interested in creating a new outdoor kitchen in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to enjoy meals outdoors this summer, renovating your existing inground swimming pool in Allentown, Pennsylvania for your grandkids’ enjoyment, or building a custom outdoor living space in Easton, Pennsylvania that will make lasting memories, then you’ve come to the right place.

That’s because we understand the value of your investment and want to make the entire process as hassle-free as possible. That’s why we’re proud to partner with homeowners in the Lehigh Valley area to simplify the transformation of their backyard into a custom outdoor living space that adds value to their home and lifestyle.

With our award-winning design/build process, our team of experienced professionals takes care of everything from engineering and project management to contractor scheduling, permit applications, and inspections for your custom outdoor living space so you won’t ever need to worry or stress about building the backyard of your dreams.

Getting started is easy. Just reach out to us today to schedule your pressure-free design consult!

For a limited time, download your very own copy of our “2024 Design Secrets“. This valuable resource will provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions and ensure that your investment is well-planned. So why wait? Begin turning your dream into a reality today with this helpful guide!

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