Lighting Placement Guide
Where to Place Your Landscape Lights
An interactive guide to optimal lighting placement for maximum curb appeal and security.
Facade Uplighting
In-ground well lights or adjustable spotlights
Wash your home's facade with soft, warm light to highlight architectural details like columns, stone textures, and trim work.
Best Practices
- Position fixtures 12-18 inches from the wall base
- Aim lights at a 30-45 degree angle upward
- Use warm white (2700K-3000K) for traditional homes
- Space fixtures every 6-8 feet along the facade
What to Avoid
- Placing lights too close causing harsh hot spots
- Using cool white tones on warm-colored materials
- Over-lighting that creates a 'stadium' effect
Core Lighting Principles
Layer Your Light
Combine three lighting types: ambient (overall illumination), task (pathway safety), and accent (architectural and landscape highlights). Layering creates depth and visual interest that single-source lighting cannot achieve.
Light the Object, Not the Eye
Position fixtures so the light source itself is hidden from common viewing angles. Visitors should see beautifully lit features, not glaring bulbs. Use shields, louvers, and proper fixture placement to control glare.
Less Is More
Resist the urge to light everything. Strategic shadows create drama and depth. Focus on key architectural elements and specimen plants, leaving supporting areas in subtle darkness to make focal points shine.
Quick Reference by Zone
| Zone | Fixture Type | Spacing | Lumens | Color Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Facade | Well lights / Spotlights | 6-8 ft apart | 200-400 lm | 2700-3000K |
| Trees | Bullet spotlights | 1-3 per tree | 300-600 lm | 2700-3000K |
| Pathways | Path lights / Bollards | 8-10 ft apart | 50-150 lm | 2700K |
| Shrubs | Accent spots / Well lights | Per specimen | 100-200 lm | 2700-3000K |
| Entry | Wall sconces / Downlights | Flanking door | 200-400 lm | 2700K |
| Security | Floodlights / Motion sensors | Corners + entries | 700-1500 lm | 3000-4000K |
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