May 2, 2024 8:55:12 AM
Two of the most popular areas to light on a Memphis property are pathways and driveways. Both paths and driveways serve important functions on your property. They get you effectively from point A to point B (whether coming or going from the property).
But ensuring that your walkways and driveway are safe in the evening hours boils down to being able to see them. Lighting is important in order to get the most out of these features at night.
That being said, you still want lighting that is aesthetically appealing and contributes positively to your property value and curb appeal.
To help you out, we’ve rounded up a bunch of driveway and pathway lighting ideas. Your paths and drive can be equally beautiful and functional with the right lighting choices.
Here are some ideas to get you started on lighting one or more walkways and the driveway on your Memphis property.
If you’ve read any of our other articles or seen our work, you probably know that we love using downlighting in landscape lighting designs. This involves shining the light from above (just as the name implies).
Often trees make the perfect location to install these lights but any higher point around the property could also work.
Downlighting is an excellent way to light up a path or a driveway. This effect is sometimes also referred to as “moonlighting” since it mimics the look of the moon casting light downward. If you’re trying to get away from the “row of path lights” look (which is probably the most traditional pathway lighting idea, downlighting is a great alternative.
When you use downlighting for a driveway, you’ll be able to see where you’re going when pulling into or out of your driveway without having lights shining in your face. This is one of our top ways to light a driveway when it’s possible to do.
Another pathway lighting idea is to use directional lighting. This is similar to path lights except that instead of a bunch of path lights in a row that lead to where the person is going, you’re shining the light in the direction of where that person is going.
In this latter case, you don’t necessarily even see the source of where the light originates from. Rather, you just see the light itself.
Light fixtures aren’t necessarily installed directly along the path but that’s where you see them. It’s another slightly more subtle way to light a path.
The same principles can be applied to lighting a driveway. You can have lights shining on to the driveway, even if not installed right alongside of it.
Traditional path lights are obviously another option and one that we don’t want to imply we’re against. There’s a reason path lights have been around a really long time.
They’re a popular option and serve a valuable function.
To be clear, we are not talking about the cheap solar path lights sold at the hardware store. Those will not stand the test of time and won’t typically provide ample light. We’re talking about high-quality, professionally installed path lights.
It’s important that forethought and planning are put into path light installation. We have mentioned in previous articles that we are not fans of lining up a bunch of path lights all in a row. This very easily gives the look of an airport landing strip!
Another common mistake with path lights is installing them in a spot where they will constantly get knocked over by foot traffic or landscaping equipment. There should also be some consideration as to the location where path lights will be less likely to get damaged.
There’s no question that path lights can be an important part of your design. We like having one here or there, particularly in areas where it might be hard to get other light shining.
When sharing outdoor path lighting ideas, we just always want to be clear there are many ways to light a path. If a lighting company only lights a path one singular way, they certainly aren’t very creative or thinking outside of the box.
Another way to light a path is with lights that are built right into the walkway or the driveway itself. These lights help people see where they’re going by showing them the next step. It’s like a subtle guide, pointing to what is ahead.
Core-drilled lights by themselves are likely not sufficient to make your walkway area bright enough. So, you’ll likely need a combination of built-in lights and another light source. Core-drilled lights tend to also work well for step lighting. It’s an added way to see where you’re going.
In the case of driveways, we call these “driveway floor lights.” Homeowners often like the idea of having driveway floor lights installed at the end of a driveway, signaling you’ve reached the end. This can be helpful when pulling in on a really dark night.
If your pathways or driveway has an area where there are retaining walls, this can also be an excellent spot to incorporate lights. Lights can be built into the wall and shine downward to illuminate that part of the pathway or the driveway.
When parking, wall lights also help prevent the driver from brushing up against a wall that is close to the driveway.
Installing lighting on and around a fence or gate that is near your walkways and driveway can also double as lighting for these areas. Fence and gate lighting make your home safer and more secure while also making it easier to navigate.
Structures around your home always serve as a potential opportunity for a place to mount lights to illuminate other areas.
But they can also look attractive and remind unwanted visitors that your property is fenced-in or has a gate.
To truly get the most out of your outdoor lighting design, it’s important that all areas of your property are considered. Walkways and driveways are a huge part of this.
The key to your success will be working with a landscape lighting professional who is skilled at handling all aspects of the property. You have options, so it’s important to do your research. It’s a big decision but when you choose wisely, you’ll gain peace of mind that you’ll be happy with the results.
At Mid South Outdoor Lighting & Audio, we know that outdoor lighting is more than just something that “looks nice.” While there’s no doubt it will add tremendous aesthetic appeal, it also brings functional value by allowing you to get more use out of your space.
When it comes to lighting up your walkways and driveway, it’s essential that every detail is considered. These are critical areas of your property and the lighting should help enhance them both aesthetically and functionally.
Are you ready to create a secure, functional, and beautiful property at any hour of the day? If so, let’s meet and discuss some bright ideas.
