There are many different lines of thought on how to design a proper outdoor lighting system. Most people simply guess on the placement of lights that they think will look good, put the fixtures in, then adjust everything after it has been installed. I have heard of professional designers coming out 3 or 4 times to move lights around after an installation. This is always done with the objective of avoiding nighttime work.

On the one hand, it makes logical sense. I personally would rather relax with my family after working all day, rather than go out and set up lights at night. However, I have a strong opinion that you should not get involved in outdoor lighting if you want your evenings free. After all, the product we are selling is only enjoyed in the evening.
Landscape and architectural lights are different than most other products. Everyone has a different opinion on what they want to accomplish with exterior lighting. Many prospects tell us: “I am not certain what I am looking for, but I’ll know it when I see it.”

It is similar to painting the inside of your home. You may have an idea of how you want a room to look, but it is difficult to get that perfect color without testing a few out first (actual paint samples painted on your own wall; not those small square paper samples).
Many designers are looking to install their own preference in lighting and make the install as simple as possible. They are banking that the customer has not considered all the options they have available. We call this the “cookie cutter approach” or a “drive-by design.”

What most of our clients tell us after an installation is that they are surprised at the attention to detail that our designers and installers give to the project. Showing a customer the different options in a nighttime design consultation allows them to choose the right look for their home. Our clients know the uniqueness of their homes and their input in the design makes all the difference.