 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|||||||||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
Lighting statues and focal points Downlighting from a pergola beam or wall is often an effective way of accent lighting an upward or forward facing statue, a ground level focal point such as a small water feature or paving features. While uplighting, downlighting and crosslighting are terms relating to position and direction of light fixtures, the term accent lighting is a more accurate one when it comes to lighting particular focal points for emphasis and drama (although the term spotlighting is also sometimes used where the light fixture is positioned further away). Accent lighting is distinguished from other lighting terms by its intent - to make a feature stand out, either against a dark background or against a backdrop or framing structure which is less brightly lit. The character of a statue must be interpreted sensitively and the lighting carefully placed if the subject is to be attractively illuminated. Uplighting from directly in front of a statue or focal point can produce a washed out, two dimensional effect (especially for a light coloured subject) and can project strong shadows onto the upper part of a figure from protrusions at a lower level. A source to one side highlights form and relief with contrasting light and subtle shadow for a fuller effect. Lighting from one side only can leave a statue looking curiously lop-sided, so consider crosslighting from two opposing directions with lighting of different intensities to retain the depth provided by crosslit shadow while maintaining all-round illumination. Colour is also a factor; dark bronze statues often require a high lighting intensity to make them stand out, whereas a the high reflectance of a white marble subject makes a lower lighting intensity necessary if it is not to be overlit. Beware too the shadow thrown onto the wall or hedge behind a subject unless you have provided lower intensity backdrop lighting. Bulky plinths can reduce the feasibility of good lighting while light coloured plinths below a darker focal point can mean that correct balance between the two is difficult to achieve. Downlighting from a wall or pergola beam is an alternative to uplighting or crosslighting for upward facing figures, planted urns with wide rims or low ground level features. By framing a focal point with illuminated arches and other perspective devices, stunning lighting effects can be achieved. The focal point must be more brightly lit than the frame if perspective is to be maintained. By increasing the light intensity, the focal point will appear closer relative to the structure, and vice versa. Uplighting of an arch is usually the best technique for framing a view but this needs to be balanced with adequate ground lighting if the arch is extended into a pergola walkway or if changes in level are involved. Megabay and Elipta provide a good choice of suitable products. 12 volt spike spotlights such as the Megabay copper M6125, brass M5520 or aluminium M5520BLA are often the most flexible choice as they can be combined with shrub and path lighting on the same transformer supply, can be flexibly positioned and are very adjustable. If you prefer stainless steel or need a 240 volt spotlight to connect to existing wiring, then try the Elipta spotlight range; they have an attractive choice of finishes, as well as 12 volt options, at reasonable prices - 316 stainless steel (E4111 and E4112), copper (E4121 and E4122), black (E4131 and E4132), and a nice dark green finish (E4141 and E4142). For uplighting statues and focal points, some degree of lamp angle adjustment is usually needed, so if you opt for recessed uplights, make sure you use one with this feature. The Amphibian (M2021 or M2022) range with its recess niche is particularly easy for installing when re-paving and provide lamp adjustability; its standard brass finish weathers nicely to an ochre colour to blend with stone paving, but if you want a modern look you can opt for the satin chrome finish or a stainless steel recessed uplight from bel-lighting.co.uk For downlighting or crosslighting from structures or walls, adjustable units such as the Megabay copper M6121 for crossbeams or M6160 for posts and columns are best; the Elipta spotlight range is an attractive choice at reasonable prices where you want another choice of finish - 316 stainless steel (E4211), copper (E4221), black (E4231), white (E4252) and a smart new brushed brass finish (E4262). Elipta spots also give you the option of 12v and 240v models to suit your wiring configuration. Choice of lamp beam depends very much on subject and proximity of light fitting to the subject; use 20-35w for close up lighting, 35-50w if the fitting is further away or the subject is dark. Consider narrow beams for highlighting of plaques, motifs, paved circles & small features, as well as for uplighting pillars and arches to frame the view; 36 - 60 degree beams are more commonly used for lighting placed close to the subject. Manufacturer and Supplier links: |
Lighting for Gardens - Professional quality garden lights and outdoor lighting from the leading UK garden lighting supplier. |
|