Summary:
Landscape lighting can completely transform your backyard into a functional, inviting space after the sun goes down. In Colorado Springs, where homeowners enjoy beautiful mountain views and outdoor living year-round, the right lighting not only enhances curb appeal but also adds safety, security, and value. This guide walks you through popular lighting options, where to place them, and how to choose the best fixtures for your space.
Why Install Landscape Lighting?
One of the most common questions we hear is: "Why should I install landscape lighting?"
The answer is simple: it adds more than beauty. Professionally designed lighting:
- Increases safety for walkways and stairs
- Deters intruders with well-lit perimeters
- Highlights landscaping, patios, and architectural details
- Allows you to enjoy outdoor spaces well into the evening
In a place like Colorado Springs, where backyards often double as entertainment zones or peaceful retreats, good lighting is an essential upgrade.
What Types of Landscape Lighting Work Best in Backyards?
“What type of lighting is best for backyards?”
That depends on your goals—here are the most popular types:
1. Path Lighting
Perfect for walkways, garden edges, and patio entrances. These small posts provide subtle illumination that boosts both safety and style.
2. Spotlights / Uplights
Used to highlight focal points like trees, sculptures, or architectural details. In Colorado Springs, uplighting large pines or stone features adds depth and drama.
3. Wall Wash Lighting
Soft lighting that spreads across exterior walls or fences. This enhances texture and provides ambient background light.
4. Deck & Step Lighting
Installed on stair risers, posts, or beneath railings, these fixtures reduce tripping hazards while creating a cozy glow.
5. Bistro/String Lights
A favorite for patios and pergolas. These lights instantly create a festive, relaxed vibe—ideal for outdoor dining or hosting friends.
6. Well Lights / In-Ground Lights
Flush with the ground, these fixtures light up walls, plants, or trees without visible hardware—great for a clean, modern look.
How to Choose the Right Lighting for Your Yard
A common concern from homeowners is: “How do I choose the right landscape lighting?”
Start by asking:
- What areas need lighting (patios, paths, garden beds)?
- Are you lighting for safety, ambiance, or both?
- Do you want fixtures to be subtle or to stand out?
Working with a local pro like Freedom Landscapes in Colorado Springs ensures your system is designed for our unique high-altitude climate—think snow, hail, and high UV exposure. We recommend weatherproof, low-voltage LED systems for long-lasting, energy-efficient performance.
Local Tip: Is Low-Voltage Lighting Safe and Efficient?
Yes. Low-voltage (12V) lighting is safer for residential use and much more energy-efficient, especially when paired with LED bulbs. You get long life (up to 50,000 hours) with a low monthly cost.
Another question we often answer is: “Will landscape lighting raise my electric bill?”
With the right system, the increase is minimal—think dollars per month, not hundreds.
How to Maximize Lighting Design in Your Colorado Springs Backyard
Here are smart design tips to boost performance and aesthetics:
- Layer your lighting: Use a combination of uplights, path lights, and accent lights for depth.
- Use timers or smart controls: Automate lighting for efficiency and convenience.
- Think seasonally: Choose fixtures that can handle snow and temperature swings.
- Highlight features: Illuminate retaining walls, pergolas, or custom stonework to create nighttime focal points.
- Avoid over-lighting: Keep it subtle to preserve that soft Colorado mountain-night feel.
Can I Add Lighting to an Existing Yard?
Absolutely. “Can landscape lighting be added after landscaping is done?”
Yes—most systems can be integrated into existing landscapes without major disruption. Whether your backyard is fully finished or still evolving, we can install lighting around hardscapes, beds, and patios.
Work with a Local Expert
At Freedom Landscapes, we’ve helped hundreds of Colorado Springs homeowners bring their backyards to life after dark. We offer:
- Custom lighting design based on your layout and goals
- Installation of durable, climate-ready fixtures
- Low-voltage, energy-efficient systems
- Maintenance and upgrade services
Let’s Light Up Your Outdoor Living Space
Whether you're designing a new outdoor area or enhancing what you already have, landscape lighting is a powerful upgrade. It's beautiful, functional, and surprisingly affordable.
Ready to get started?
Schedule a free lighting consultation with Freedom Landscapes today, and let’s design the perfect lighting plan for your Colorado Springs backyard.
