Table Of Contents
New to the lighting world? Let’s go back to basics and discover what makes lighting so important in architecture and landscaping.
Generally, lights are made up of a few components:
- The driver, which supplies power to the light itself. Drivers convert mains voltage alternate current (AC) to a lower voltage direct current (DC) in order for the LEDs to work. If you are installing your driver outside, make sure it’s waterproof by checking the IP rating is 65 or above - this number determines the driver’s sensitivity to foreign objects and water.
- An LED Chip, which emits light measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light will appear to our discerning eyes (lumens are not to be confused with watts, which measure power consumption). LEDs use up to 90% less energy than a regular old light bulb, making them an extremely efficient and long lasting option.
- The body, which can be functional or aesthetic, or a mix of both! Gone are the days of only using downlights - when it comes to choosing a style for your light fittings, the sky’s the limit. Table lamps and wall sconces for the living room, strip lighting in the kitchen or bathroom, and path lights to lead the way outdoors. You could even hang a pendant or two from the branch of a tree. Let your personality shine (literally)!
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- A reflector and diffuser. These two pair together to determine how we see the light - sharp and focused or soft and wide. The reflector directs the light and controls its spread, while the diffuser is placed in front of the LEDs, scattering the light and helping to reduce glare.
When planning your space, it is important to consider colour temperature - measured in units called Kelvins (K). The higher the number, the whiter the light. Our lights range from 2700K to 4000K. 2700K provides a warm, ambient glow, perfect for a relaxed evening in. 3000K - 4000K is better suited for task lighting, which provides illumination for specific tasks such as writing or cooking.
Light distribution plays a huge role in creating the perfect atmosphere. Do you want to add drama and character? Direct attention towards a specific object? Or are you simply looking to bathe the whole room in a gorgeous glow? This is where beam angle comes in. A narrower beam angle is perfect for task lighting as it is focused and direct, whereas a wider beam angle can light a whole room, and creates a foundation for the rest of your lighting scheme.
The components of a light work together in a multitude of ways to create a unique lighting experience for your home and garden. Lighting is such an important factor when considering the ambience and mood of your space. Whether you’re working hard at your desk, welcoming friends for dinner or wishing to highlight a beautiful piece of art, we have options to suit you and your home.
