01Paths, patios and features
Mark the entrance, gates, paths, steps and seating areas, and think about how you use them after dark. Separate the lighting needed to move around safely from planting or features you want to enjoy from indoors. You may not need the same brightness across the whole garden.
02Switching, timing and spill
Decide which areas should switch together and which need separate controls. Arrival lighting, outdoor dining and decorative lighting can need different settings. Show neighbouring windows and boundaries so the direction, shielding and switch-off times can be planned from the start.
03Fittings, routes and maintenance
Share the landscaping plan before paving or decking restricts access. The fittings need to suit their exposure, while drivers and connections need suitable positions for maintenance. Agree cable routes, groundworks and repairs to finishes alongside the choice of visible fittings.