The 3 best wash lighting techniques to create a beautiful outdoor lighting experience

Wash lighting is what brings your landscape all together after dark.

Many lighting designers have found that wash lighting is the secret ingredient to set the stage for true ambiance.

Indirect lighting, which is created by applying different wash lighting techniques, transforms the dark and ominous backdrop into something friendly and familiar.

When done correctly, wash lighting has a way of blending in the backdrop without obscuring it. 

Think of wash lighting as a way to create more visual appeal, not necessarily a brighter landscape.

Here are 3 wash lighting techniques we hope you will find helpful when planning your landscape lighting for your home.  

1. Architectural wash lighting:

Architectural wash lighting is a technique that uses light to highlight the architectural features of a home.

This can be done by using low-angle in-grade light fixtures to create a soft, even wash of light on the walls, or by using more focused fixtures to create dramatic shadows and highlights.

The type of lamp used will depend on the desired effect.

When choosing lamps for architectural wash lighting, it is important to consider the height of the walls and the desired effect. (i.e. – if you are using low-angle in-grade fixtures, you will need to use a lamp with a wide beam spread to avoid creating harsh shadows.)

It is also important to be careful not to create too much light, as this can distract from the architectural features of the home.

2. Shrub and Japanese Maple Wash lighting:

When it comes to landscape lighting, the little things can make a big difference.

By softly washing shrubs or a lower-level Japanese maple with a wide and soft lamp selection, you can create composition, balance, and interesting symmetry.

This type of transitional lighting focuses on the little details, showcasing key elements of the landscape and completing the lighting design.

For example, when lighting a waterfall on a pond, it can be beneficial to have a light aimed directly at the waterfall. However, to heighten the effect, you can also add a secondary light that offers a soft flood that softens the rocks or landscape around the edge.

This approach creates a much more visually appealing feature, as it draws the eye from the centerpiece to the surrounding area.

In short, less really can say more when it comes to landscape lighting. By focusing on the little things, you can create a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

3. Wash with down lighting:

Wash with down lighting is a technique of mounting concealed fixtures from an established or mature tree, if available, to create the washing effect of moonlighting.

This technique is often overlooked, but it can be a great way to create a sophisticated, soft, and ambient light effect.

When done correctly, wash with down lighting can create a sense of depth and mystery in your landscape. It can also be used to highlight key features, such as ground covers, flagstone pathways, and water features.

Here are some tips for using wash with down lighting:

• Use a wide beam angle to create a soft, even wash of light.
• Choose fixtures with a low-glare finish to avoid harsh shadows.
• Mount the fixtures at a height that will create the desired effect.
• Consider using multiple fixtures to create a more dramatic effect.

Wash with down lighting is a versatile technique that can be used to create a variety of moods and atmospheres in your landscape.

Give us a call:

Located in Midvale, Landscape Lighting Pro of Utah serves throughout Utah’s residential areas, including Salt Lake City, Park City, Draper, Davis, and Utah Counties. Our outdoor lighting portfolio includes projects throughout Utah and beyond.