What a Quality Lighting Designer Does for Your Landscape Lighting Project
A professional landscape lighting designer can transform your outdoor space into an evening spectacle. Properly trained on light system engineering and visual aesthetic, the right designer can offer sound advice and connect you to the right installation team to give your property improved curb appeal and safety.
Not only do you want a designer who will create a beautiful space, but you also want an educated designer who can explain the difference between fixtures, lamps, wire, and operating system options, in addition to lighting install logistics.
Lighting designers are oftentimes more trained and experienced than standard landscapers and handymen.
You also want a designer who will listen to you, the client, through every step of the design process. A quality designer will choose the focal point(s) of a landscape project and build around it/them. They will use a broad array of hues and lighting levels to properly light your water features, trees, foliage, architecture, and walkways.
Hire a Landscape Lighting Designer
Make an informed decision before hiring your lighting designer by following the guide below.
Ask for the Designer’s Background and Training
Most good designers who have been in business for more than a couple of years have extensive backgrounds in construction and landscape design, along with an array of collaborations with fabricators and artists. Prestige in the landscape lighting community tends to come naturally, look or ask for education, certification, awards, and other recognitions.
Check the Designer’s Client Reviews
Before you hire a designer, we recommend that you check their reviews and recommendations. A quick Google search can provide all sorts of information on the company’s local reputation. Previous clients’ experience with designers can give you an idea of what your own may look like.
Ensure Your Communication Will Be Two-Sided
Ask the designer what their form of communication will be. If you have an issue, will you need to email, call, or submit a form to reach them? What is the time frame that they can have your project completed by? Will they check in when they arrive on your property? Are the products readily available? We advise you to hire a designer who promises to stick with you well past the completion of the project.
Check Materials
Make sure that the materials and contractors that your designer works with aren’t cheap and low-quality. Invest in high-quality materials that will last you for years with the proper maintenance and invite safe contractors onto your property.
Ask About a Warranty
Look for a warranty that will last you for years, if not for life.
Sign a Detailed Contract
Be sure to review the fine print of your contract before you sign it. These details should include deadlines, payment schedules, and included materials. All changes throughout your lighting plan should be added to the contract to protect you, as the client.
Working with Your Designer
A professional lighting system doesn’t contain cheap kit materials. Your designer, if properly screened, will provide you with a lighting system recommendation that is energy efficient, safe, and aesthetically beautiful.
Be honest about your budget from the beginning. We understand that unforeseen expenses can arise, but being transparent about the scope of a system that you can afford will help the designer provide you with a system that you can properly maintain throughout the years.
Why You Should Choose Natural Night-Scapes as Your Lighting Designer
We are Natural Night-Scapes, an outdoor lighting company that is based in Omaha, Nebraska. We are locally-loved as a Best of Omaha two-time winner and trained /studied through the International Landscape Lighting Institute.
Our team of designers and installers will provide you with sound advice, a satisfactory project outcome, and thorough communication through every step of the process. Contact us at 402-204-0944 or email us at info@naturalnightscapes.com to start your design process today.