A well-lit garden not only enhances the landscape elements, but also reduces the risk of accidents and deters potential intruders. Poorly lit passageways, stairs and obstacles can become dangerous at night, while good lighting can act as a deterrent to thieves, increasing the perception of security.

Enriching a garden with appropriate lighting is not an easy task and requires great attention to detail to reduce light leakage and meet the requirements of safety, visual comfort and aesthetics.

Garden areas to illuminate and improve safety

As far as the safety aspect is concerned, it is crucial to correctly light certain areas in outdoor spaces: pedestrian paths, access and entertainment areas, and boundaries.

Pathways

Walkways, steps and driveways in the garden must be properly lit to prevent accidents and ensure maximum safety. Ground recessed spotlights can be excellent options for discreetly and functionally illuminating walkways. Alternatively, it is possible to use outdoor lamps that attach to the ground but are adjustable to better direct the light beam toward walkways, stairs, or garage access ramps. These types of lighting also have a more decorative function in the garden, as they diffuse a soft light that does not dazzle and are very comfortable on the eye.

Access areas

Access areas such as doors, gates, and garages must be well-lit to ensure visibility and safety. Wall lights are perfect for illuminating areas near homes and entrances. They can be installed along external walls and provide directional lighting that enhances the perception of security.

Entertainment and Conviviality Areas

Garden areas dedicated to entertaining, such as patios, terraces, or gazebos, must be well-lit to ensure that various activities occur safely. Suspended lights, table lamps, and adjustable spotlights are ideal for creating a welcoming yet safe environment.

Boundary areas

Poor illumination of these areas can cause a safety hazard due to the possibility of concealing inconspicuous obstacles and the risk of being used by intruders.

In the case of a large garden with a hedge all around, it is possible to install adjustable spotlights illuminating the hedge from the front, thus creating a light barrier that creates a highly visible border. Another solution is to insert lights inside the hedge that illuminate towards the ground to create the boundary defined by the light areas hidden between the leaves.

If walls are present, LED lights can be installed at the base to create a lighted boundary around the perimeter.

Characteristics of luminaires and IP rating

The IP Degree of Protection is critical for outdoor lights and corresponds to the ability to withstand solid and/or liquid weathering.

Products with the correct IP are crucial for climate, location, and functionality to avoid problems during use.

For lighting outdoor spaces, whether in the garden, on the veranda, or on the terrace, it is necessary to choose luminaires from IP65 to IP67.