In the world of landscape lighting, the consideration of when to use uplighting versus downlighting is common.  Do you know the difference in the two? Or, how to know what type of lighting to use where?  The good news is, deciding all this is part of the fun (and challenge) of creating a landscape lighting design. These two types of lighting are all about direction. With uplighting, the landscape lights are mounted below or at ground level, and the light shines upward.  With downlighting, you may place a fixture up high, such as in the branch of a tree or even under the eaves of your house. The goal is to have the light shining down. The higher the light is put, the wider the space it illuminates will be.

Learn more about uplighting and downlighting here, as well as when you should use both.

Uplighting: When is it the Right Option?

There are certain parts of your outside landscape that are ideal for uplighting effects. One example is trees.

Illuminating a tree from the ground up will show off the interesting bark, delicate leaves and branch structure.

Another location to install uplighting is near architectural columns. When you light these columns from below, it will add drama and create interesting shadows on the walls.

Your garden features are also a great candidate for uplighting. You can highlight a prized plant, elegant statute or beautiful fountain with the right types of uplighting. When uplighting is done right, it can automatically add drama to your outside space.

Downlighting: When is it the Right Option?

While many features in your outside space will benefit from uplighting, many others will look just as amazing with downlighting.

One area to consider downlighting is anywhere you have outdoor seating. It can be used beneath seating walls or benches to cast light along patios and pathways. Not only will it produce a nice pool of light, but it provides an additional safety benefit for those walking in the area at night.

In some situations, downlighting is a more practical option, too.

For example, if you have children or pets, it may not make sense to have lighting at or below ground level. Instead, you can install lighting overhead, which eliminates the possibility of your fixtures being trampled or broken.

Can’t Decide? Use Both

One of the best things about uplighting and downlighting is that they work great together. While each type of lighting works great by itself, you can create an even more dramatic space when you combine these two types of lighting.

If you are unsure of how to design your landscape lighting plan, don’t worry, there’s help available. At The IDL Company, you can utilize the experience and professionalism of individuals who have been providing landscape lighting services for years. Call IDL Company today to learn more about landscape lighting options and to get a custom plan designed for your home.