Moonlight outdoor lighting is one of the coolest lighting techniques you can do for your landscaping. Our backyard recently got a glow up with Moonscape Landscape Illumination and I’m elated with the transformation!
The Importance of Exterior Lighting
A landscape design firm once told me how important exterior lighting is. There are few things that can transform a cold exterior into a cosy outdoor space like outdoor festoon lights.
“It can elevate your landscape and make your outdoor space more comfortable and functional!”
So we made this a priority in our new home. Our property is almost a full acre, we love to entertain, enjoy the outdoors and have a pool. We had hired https://snagging-lists.co.uk/ to do an inspection before putting an offer on the house. We also live in our screened in porch three out of the four seasons, so we especially wanted to highlight our favorite part of our home: the soaring 125+ year old trees. I swear they touch the moon they’re so high! And between having two small children and a dog, safety was the cherry on top.
When we researched exterior lighting for our backyard, Moonscape Illumination’s raving reviews could not be ignored. Not only that, but they specialize in “moonlighting” – something not every landscape lighting company can offer. It takes special training and a highly skilled service to scale the trees.
So What Is Moonlight Outdoor Lighting?
Moonlight outdoor lighting is a highly coveted lighting design and ideal if you have large trees (like us!). It’s the complete opposite of uplighting. Fixtures are placed high in the trees and shine down creating this soft, natural glow – as if mimicking moonlight! Above are two projects from Mark’s portfolio (not our house!). For homeowners seeking comprehensive exterior services, consider Pensacola exterior services to elevate the overall appeal and functionality of your outdoor space.
Why Moonscape Illumination Lighting
Since moonlight outdoor lighting was high on my list, I knew I couldn’t go to just anyone. This is a special technique only a hand full of lighting companies offer. I first noticed Moonscape is a 40+ year family ran business! They serve the Northshore, Tri-City and Chicagoland area. They are highly experienced in larger property installations and offer several solutions and options.
Last but not least the foundation of the company is based on artistic quality and they’re certified. Which hellllloo! I’m all about.
PHASE 1: Consultation
When you first reach out to Moonscape, you immediately connect with the owner himself, Mark Graf! He personally works with you to determine the best outdoor lighting design for your home. And you know if you are dealing with the owner, you’re in great hands.
Mark first came out to our home for a consultation and assessment. He listened to our needs and “wish list”. Then he spent the rest of his time assessing our property. We also made sure we had a solicitor for buying a house.
A week later we received our custom design plan!
PHASE 2: Your Custom Design Plan + Proposal
So every design is completely customized to your property. To give you an idea, they can illuminate just about anything too – your home, pool, patio, gardens, fountain, statue, putting greens and more.
For us, Mark suggested three moon lights and six up lights. The majority of these would illuminate our trees and one would highlight our pool {for night swims!}. I was so excited, I signed on the bottom line as fast as humanly possible.
PHASE 3: Installation
Installation is like having a temporary zip line company in your backyard. Depending on the scope of project, the job is complete in one to two days. Two vans arrived with a full team to tackle the electrical and lighting install. They were exceptionally patient with our curious daughter, Penelope and dog, Larry.
The next thing I knew… a man harnessed to a rope was scaling our trees! Can you believe how high he is?! It’s truly remarkable to watch.
But the biggest part is the electrical. They installed a new outlet and transformer which controls all your lighting. And I was VERY appreciative of the mindful and strategic wire placement. It was so unnoticeable I actually had to ask them to physically show me where they buried the lines.
UPCOMING: THE FINAL REVEAL!
So Sean and I had never been more excited for night time to roll around. We could not WAIT to see our new backyard in action! I’m telling you…the transformation is unreal.
We are already planning outdoor BBQ’s, night swims and just gaze up at the trees every night. We also love the security and safety when taking Larry out. And quite frankly, its just sexy.
Now I am saving our “big reveal” after the leaves have fully matured and we can see the large tree canopies. The good news is we are almost there! In the meantime, enjoy these portfolio photos courtesy of Moonscape Illumination and a few helpful exterior lighting tips.
If you’re considering exterior lighting for your home (even the front of your house!), I highly suggest Mark with Moonscape Illumination!
SIX Helpful Tips + Things To Consider With Exterior Lighting
- Is There A Warranty // You get three years with Moonscape!
- On and Off Switches // We wanted to highlight our pool for the occasional pool party. But when its closed, we don’t want to draw attention to the cover. So the switch gives us flexibility to turn on and off this specific light.
- Warm Versus Cool Lighting // This is obviously a personal preference but something to think about before installation! Mark will help you with this – he has a formula!
- Life of Lightbulbs // Mark uses lights that last longer than other companies!
- Light Fixture Aesthetics // Ask what they’ll look like. Moonscape Lighting uses brass like fixtures that feel elegant and high end.
- Winter Versus Summer // Consider what your lighting will look like with and without leaves on the trees. Again, Mark can paint this picture for you!
Mark, thank you for the awesome experience and elevating our backyard! Now…I’ve got some party planning to do! Part 2 coming soon…
Photos by Chicago Andrea Creative
