Advice
Plan garden lighting around what you use.
Start with paths, steps and places to sit, then choose fittings and controls that make the garden useful after dark.
Walk the route before choosing fittings.
Mark the journey from the back door to the gate, seating area or garden room. Notice changes in level and places where useful light is missing. A simple sketch gives the conversation a purpose before the number of lights starts to grow.
Choose a few things to highlight.
A path, a favourite tree and a seating area may be enough to establish the scheme. Consider the view from indoors as well as from the garden. Avoid choosing every fitting in isolation; the combined result should still feel calm.
Think about controls and neighbours.
Decide which lights you want together and whether separate control would be useful. Discuss timers or sensors where appropriate. Consider the direction of the light and the view from neighbouring properties, rather than judging brightness only from your own patio.
Let the installation shape the quote.
Outdoor conditions, cable routes and the existing supply affect the design. Have a qualified electrician specify suitable equipment and protective arrangements. Agree any trenching, paving repairs or landscaping separately so the electrical quote does not leave the finishing work unclear.
Ask for a handover after dark.
Where practical, arrange to see and adjust the proposed effect in evening conditions. Ask how the controls work and how fittings should be maintained. The Harpenden project illustrates a restrained approach with path lighting and a small number of planting highlights.
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