When it comes to interior design, there is a well-known principle known as the Rule of Three. Basically, it means that grouping three things together results in a visually pleasing balance. In outdoor lighting, the Rule of Three Lights also creates balance and enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor spaces, but it refers to three types of lighting rather than the number of actual lights. The different types of lighting work together to create interesting layers of light without being overwhelming. So what are the three types of lighting you should have to create the best landscape lighting display?

Accent Lighting

When you’re adding outdoor lighting to your home or business, one of the things to consider is whether there are any specific features that you want to highlight or draw focus to. For instance, maybe you have a beautiful fountain in your front yard or some lovely trees or interesting plants that you would like visitors to enjoy. Are there architectural elements that you love, like a textured wall or colorful front door? 

Add accent lighting to draw the eye to these home features. Generally speaking, accent lighting consists of either uplights or downlights. Uplights are great for highlighting your landscaping or yard features since you can play with angles to create dramatic shadows or emphasize interesting details and textures. Downlights work best in your outdoor living areas (like patios, pools, and outdoor courtyards or dining areas), since they are placed above eye level and will provide light for your activities without blinding your visitors. 

Ambient Lighting

When you think about general illumination over a wider area, you’re thinking of ambient lighting. Ambient lighting helps create an atmosphere and establish the warm and inviting environment you want your home or commercial property to give to visitors. In outdoor lighting, think about using recessed lighting, wall-mounted lights, patio and deck lights, and hanging lanterns to spread a warm glow that banishes dark spots without creating hot spots.

Task Lighting

As the name suggests, task lighting helps illuminate the parts of your outdoor areas where specific activities or tasks take place. Adding path lights to walkways and near steps is essential to ensure safe passage across your property at night. You might add other types of task lighting to add functionality to an outdoor kitchen (e.g., lights above your grill or cooking space) or conversation area.

Houston Lightscapes Can Help With All Your Lighting Needs

When you combine all three types of lighting on your property – accent, ambient, and task lighting – you will achieve layers of light that add beauty and functionality to your landscaping and outdoor areas. Working with professionals can help ensure that the balance is right and does not become too much or wash out the exterior. 

The lighting experts at Houston Lightscapes understand the Rule of Three Lights and can design a stunning outdoor lighting display that is unique to you and your property. Give us a call to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation where we will walk your property with you and discuss both your lighting needs and your vision for your home or business. We have over 30 years of experience in highlighting the beautiful commercial and residential properties in the greater Houston area, and we would love the chance to work on yours.