Tips for lighting water features, ponds, and waterfalls

Is there anything more relaxing than the sound of trickling water on a summer evening? 

Property owners frequently describe the pond or waterfalls, as the feature they treasure most when I visit with them to discuss their lighting needs. 

Though some add water features for the added benefit of tranquil sound, others also acquire them for the visual appeal that moving water provides. 

Whatever the case, lighting really amplifies the serene setting a water feature creates for a landscape. 

After we complete the design and install water feature lighting, our clients often remark that they don’t know why they waited so long to add lighting: “It’s as if the landscape actually comes to life after sunset.” 

Light softly splashes over waterfalls, illuminating ponds and draping plant material in moving silhouettes and blurred shadows breathing motion and life into the scene.  Extending our living spaces and turning our dark windows into natural portraits changes the way we live.

Here are tips that we think you will find helpful for lighting water features:

• Light with Purpose – When we design a lighting system, we like to be deliberate in our approach. We ask ourselves “Why light?” at every angle. Adapting this approach will help minimize costly errors.

• Consider the Optimum Viewing Angles – Let’s assume, for example, that your landscape is primarily enjoyed from your back patio or even from the back windows of your home. If this is the case, then you’ll need to consider how this visual aspect can be taken into consideration when placing lights. Lighting fixtures should be chosen carefully, and eyelids should be used to hide the glare from the viewing site.

• Careful fixture placement – When placed in the right location, beneath a waterfall, for example, underwater lights, can really capture water movement and add a magical element to the design.  Doing so will create a fulfilling soft ambiance and have a very professional look to the effect.

• Maintenance – Maintenance should be performed on all outdoor lighting systems, regardless of being submerged in water. The pond environment has a way of splashing and finding its way into the system. A good inspection and cleaning in spring and fall is encouraged to keep your system in check. 

Remember, choosing the right lighting fixture for your system is just as important as finding the right location for the light to be placed and the right angle for it to be aimed. 

With careful consideration and planning, it is possible to create a beautiful lighting effect. 

But the key is to understand what you are lighting, and what the best choice will be for illuminating the various aspects of your home and landscape. 

Give Us A Call: 

To learn more about how to light your outdoor living space, call us at (801) 440-7647 to schedule a free consultation, or feel free to simply fill out a contact form.

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