WHY LIGHT?

What is the focal point in the landscape?

What items or plants are special?

What features of the landscape do you wish to enhance? (Plantings, pavings, architectural elements, fences, decks, sculptures, walls, etc.)

What specific requests do you have with regard to lighting needs?

What features should be de-emphasized at night? (Tool sheds, dog runs, trash barrels, etc.)?

What was the architect of the buildings and grounds trying to achieve?

What outdoor activities will you pursue at night? Where? How much light is required?

What moods do you want lighting to create?

What effect do you want the lighting to have on guests?

What parts of the property could be dangerous at night? (Steps, changes in grades, retaining walls, water elements, paths, low overhangs, and whatever else might present a safety problem.)

How can security be strengthened?

Are there any dark areas such as deep shadows near garages or entries that need special attention?

Is 120-volt power available where needed? (If not, have it installed and inspected BEFORE you begin your installation.)

Where are the outside weather-proof receptacles and interior switches located?

Are there any obstacles requiring special work? How will you overcome them? (Such as reaching the other side of a cement walkway or driveway, which may require cutting or drilling.)

Do you have ALL the necessary paperwork, installation tools, Powercenter™ transformers, fixtures, accessories, spare lamps, etc., you need to complete the job efficiently and professionally?

IMPORTANT NOTE:
You can easily knock yourself out of a lighting project by “over-designing” - resulting in a “too expensive” system or “under-designing” - proving to the client that you may not be the professional you claim to be. Always - “ASK WHY LIGHT” and tailor your design to not only the physical lighting needs and financial parameters.