We are installing a paver patio. There will be a Sitting Wall around a fire pit, and a single step down to the level of the fire pit. There will also be pillars at each end of the sitting wall and around the hot tub. We are looking to install some Undercover Hardscape Lights in the area. Could someone please advise how many and where would be the best locations on the drawing below?
Hard to give a straightforward answer without a photo of the actual scenario or some idea of the maximum or minimum overall amount of light you want/need to introduce to the area. Consider the following images: In the first photo, the 3” fixture on the right is about as bright as the incandescent bulb in a nightlight whereas the 8” fixture on the left can be at least as bright as a 15W bulb and up to the brightness of a 40W bulb. In the bottom photo, the fixture on the left is 65 lumens bright and the fixture on the right is 425 lumens (again, significantly brighter). IOW, settling on a particular number of fixtures depends on multiple variables. What you’ll want to do is consider your priorities. If safety is more important than ambiance, you’ll want to choose fixtures towards the brighter end of the spectrum. If safety is less important, you can focus more on creating a particular mood or ambiance. You’ll also want to consider what surfaces are being illuminated (darker surfaces might require higher lumens) and the primer users of the space. For instance, as we age, it’s generally a good idea to opt for higher lumens for greater safety. HTH
Thanks for your reply Mesodude. I appreciate your input - lots of good thoughts. Unfortunately, I don't have a photo of the scenario - we're having this installed within the next month and I wanted to add the lights when it goes in. As for the type of lighting, it would be more for ambiance than safety. The reason I am thinking of the "Undercover Hardscape Light (VHS-668-BBZ) is because I was told the bulbs are replaceable? My initial thoughts would be to have 3 under the step, maybe 2 on the Seat Wall, and unsure about how many and which direction(s) on the pillars.
Glad to help, Paul. Unlike integrated fixtures (which have an irreplaceable bulb), the first two products listed in the Hardscape light section (linked below) are "lamp ready". That is, if you're not satisfied with the brightness level, you can swap the bulb out for one you find more suitable. Btw, you don't have to limit yourself to a single brightness level for all of your fixtures. Maybe in the seating areas, you'll want lower lumens fixtures and in places (like where there's a step or transition to grass or asphalt or sand, etc) you might go a little brighter. And depending on the layout of your yard, existing ambient light conditions (dark sky or nearby street lamps, for instance), and how much or how little soil or grass is near the fire pit), you may have more fixture type options than you realize. HTH https://www.voltlighting.com/shop/landscape-lighting/hardscape-lights
