Using bollard lights is a great way to enhance your landscape’s appeal and provide aesthetically pleasing lighting in your pathways, walkways, and other outdoor areas.
Below, we’re going to discuss what exactly bollard lights are and how installing them on your commercial property will create a decorative and functional space.
What are Bollard Lights?
Bollard Lights are a type of outdoor lighting usually in the form of short and thick posts. They are used in both residential and commercial spaces. When it comes to public properties like hospitals, schools, gardens, pathways, etc., they are installed to create boundaries or barriers.
Bollard lights come in many types of materials, sizes, and finishes.
The Benefits of Bollard Lights in Landscaping
There are many reasons a lot of property owners choose bollard lights as their main source of illuminating outdoor spaces. Here are some of the following benefits:
Enhanced Safety and Security
One of the main benefits of installing bollard lights is how it can help with safety and security. As mentioned earlier, bollard lighting can be used to form a boundary or barrier within the property. Since it also illuminates the pathways and contributes to well-lit spaces, it lessens the chances of any accidents because of the clear visibility the lights provide. It also prevents possible intruders from entering the property.
Aesthetic Appeal
Besides increasing safety and security, another benefit of bollard lights is that they enhance the aesthetics and outdoor ambiance of the area. By strategically placing these lights, it can accentuate the features of the area and develop an inviting atmosphere for guests and/or visitors.
Versatility and Functionality
Bollard lights are versatile enough to be used in different ways. They can be installed to illuminate pathways, landscapes, gardens, and parking lots. They can also be used as a means to navigate people into certain places or landmarks.
How to Choose the Right Bollard Lights for Your Landscape
There are many bollard lighting options available in the market right now. The vast options can be overwhelming especially if this is your first time incorporating them. Here are some easy tips you can follow in finding the best kind for your property:
Material and Durability
When it comes to materials, here are the most common types of materials used to make bollard lighting:
- Stainless steel: This material is resistant to rust and corrosion, which is suitable when facing weather conditions such as heavy rain or in coastal or high-humidity areas.
- Aluminum: If you’re looking for an affordable option, aluminum is also pretty good in being weather-resistant.
- Brass: It has a noticeably different color from the first two, giving off a completely different atmosphere while remaining durable.
- Concrete: If you’re going for the minimalist vibe, using concrete is a unique way of incorporating bollard lights that possess a similar amount of resistance to stainless steel and aluminum.
- Plastic: The most cost-effective out of all. Even though it’s not as durable as the other four, if you’re placing it in a low-traffic area, then this does the job.
Light Output and Color Temperature
Deciding on the lighting intensity and color temperature is an important factor in building an ambiance and mood for your property. Keeping it low-lit can make it look more cozy whereas emitting a bright light can give the area a more intense appearance.
Moreover, using warm light (2700k-3000k) for your bollard lights can create a more inviting and cozy atmosphere, whereas using cool light gives a more industrious and energetic feel. If you’re feeling creative, you can also opt for colo-changing lights for the ultimate customizability, allowing you to create your custom color combination that matches the theme or event of that day.
Design and Style Options
The possibilities are endless, so it’s important to find the right style that matches the theme of your outdoor area best. Are you going for a traditional look or something more modern? Maybe you’re leaning more toward a minimalist appearance. Regardless of the style you’re aiming for, bollard lights are very versatile and can match any theme. Here are a few options to give you some inspiration:
- Directional bollard lights: This is particularly useful if you’re using the lights as a form of guide for visitors. These lights are adjustable, creating a visual effect that can attract attention to outdoor art and sculptures while not being too light-polluting.
- Low-level bollard lights: This type of lighting creates a unique ambiance thanks to its subtle glow, adding peacefulness which can be especially helpful for pathways or gardens.
- Smart bollard lights: This innovative option comes with motion sensors that trigger when movement is detected, making it ideal for pathways and other spaces where lighting is necessary for movement.
Stylish Ideas for Incorporating Bollard Lights
Bollard lights are a fun way to create depth, set the mood, and enhance the decor and sculptures of your outdoor environment. Never underestimate how much impact good lighting makes.
Illuminating Pathways
When it comes to safety and aesthetics, place the bollard lights along driveways or pathways. Ensure there’s ample and consistent spacing between each one for a uniform glow. You can also stagger them on either side for that added visual effect.
Highlighting Garden Features
If you have a garden, using bollard lights can accentuate the different elements found in it–flowers, rocks, tiny ponds, etc. Place them strategically so they can shine a light on the beautiful plants and using a gentle or low light can cast gentle shadows that add dimension and enhance the texture and shapes of these elements.
Defining Outdoor Spaces
You can add definition to your patio, deck, or outdoor seating zones with the help of bollard lights. If you use the right color and intensity, these lights help create boundaries and an inviting ambiance for guests to relax in. Place them at a low level to set a tranquil mood that makes the area more cozy and not harsh to the eyes.
Creating Visual Depth and Layers
Arrange the bollard lights in different heights and placements to add dimension to your landscape. If you layer them strategically, you can create a more dynamic and visually appealing outdoor space. Consider the area size and determine how you want these bollard lights to be laid out–you want to make sure you utilize the space well while still providing decent lighting.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Seeking professional help is highly recommended, especially if you lack experience in installing bollard lights. That being said, here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re setting up the lighting.
Proper Placement and Spacing
Create a layout to ensure that the bollard lights are placed evenly–not too close or far from each other so there’s still optimum lighting. Bollard lights are typically short so you also want to make sure it doesn’t visually clash with the other outdoor lighting sources.
