Every landscape and property we light is different. Some have loads of trees and landscape, some have pergolas, some have outdoor kitchens, and some have these incredible structures and statues. 

When it comes to lighting a statue or structure in a landscape, it is important to make the light subtle and elegant, yet effective. Our goal is to highlight the monuments in a dramatic way without the light being too harsh, distracting from the beauty of the piece. 

Here are 3 ways we light statues and structures:

1. Up Lights

One way we highlight the statues in the landscapes we work with is by using uplight. Up lights cast a warm glow on a statue from the ground, illuminating it in a powerful way. When using up lights, the statue casts shadows on itself rather than the ground, adding another depth of beauty to the scene. 

This lighting technique is usually best for statues that have soft lines versus those with sharp ones. Up lighting on a statue with sharp lines and curves can often be too harsh and will not highlight the statue in a tasteful manner that most homeowners are seeking. 

2. Down Lights

Another way we can light statues is by using down lights. When we use down lights, it can create a spotlight effect on the statue without the harsh beam of light that comes with spotlights. These fixtures will be placed in nearby trees to cast the light down onto the statue, illuminating it in a soft and inspiring way. 

Since the down lights cast a soft light over the statue, different elements of the statue can create shadows on the ground to add to the art. Depending on the direction the lights are shinning on the statue, the shadows will add very dramatic and majestic feel, or they can be very subtle, putting more focus on the statue itself. 

3. Bistros

Bistros are something that we can utilize in very unique situations. This type of lighting technique is not something we would use to light a statue, but more of a monument or structure in one’s landscape. 

Much like the image above, bistros can accent the beauty of structure while simultaneously creating a festive and inviting space to your backyard space. When it comes to these types of monuments and structures in a landscape, bistros can had a warmth to the space in a way an up or down light cannot. 

Do you have a statue or structure you want to see lit? 

If you have a gorgeous statue or structure in your landscape that you would like to see lit, give us a call at (801) 440-7647, or fill out a consultation request here! 

At Landscape Lighting Pro, the art of outdoor illumination is a real passion we work to perfect. Designing elegantly bespoke landscape lighting systems is simply all we do. For over 15 years, our award winning team of designers and craftsmen have striven to bring the best outdoor lighting experience possible to people’s homes and businesses across the Wasatch Front & beyond.