ENTERTAINER'S GARDEN LIGHTING PROJECT
Transforming a 1930s Italianate sunken garden into a vibrant, safe, and atmospheric evening venue.
The Brief:
The owners wanted their Italianate sunken garden to become a true party space. Anchored by a 1930s pond and a newly built oak-framed garden house doubling as a garden office, the garden had charm but lacked lighting. The goal was to make the entire lower garden usable and atmospheric at night while providing practical power for the pond and garden house.
Project Details:
Our design created a layered lighting scheme tailored for entertaining. Bollard lighting guides guests safely along paths, spotlights accentuate plants, architectural details, and features, while hanging lanterns in the garden house porch add character and charm. The pond was subtly illuminated to create depth and sparkle, transforming its 1930s structure into a glowing centerpiece.
We integrated comprehensive electrical supplies to power pond pumps, pond lighting, the garden house, and discreet outdoor sockets for future expansion. Each LED fitting was chosen for durability and low energy use, with cabling carefully concealed to protect both planting and hard landscaping.
The result is a sunken garden that is as functional as it is enchanting. Pathways and features are safely illuminated, the oak-framed garden house porch is welcoming, and the pond adds atmospheric drama. The owners can now host evening gatherings, work in their garden office, or simply enjoy a serene, illuminated garden sanctuary.
Layered Garden Lighting with Pool and Oak Garden Room:
A cross-view of the garden reveals a beautifully layered lighting design, balancing soft ambient tones with focused highlights. The pool features a gentle hint of colour-changing light, creating a tranquil evening atmosphere. The oak garden room and porch are illuminated with a traditional lantern, carefully selected to complement the character and materials of the main building.
Indian Kadi Pool Lighting:
Set around the Indian Kadi pool, this design focuses on calm reflection and understated drama. Subtle up-lighting enhances the natural texture of the stonework, while soft perimeter lighting defines the pool’s edge without overpowering it. Gentle hints of colour bring the water to life in the evening, shifting the atmosphere from tranquil to ambient with ease.
Final adjustments:
Tom our gardener helps out with spot alignment to focus 240v spots onto stone raised gardens around the pond area.
Smart Controls:
Spearhead™, a UK-engineered wireless control system, to manage multiple garden lighting zones effortlessly. Designed for flexibility and reliability, it allows clients to control pathways, uplights, and water features via a simple app or remote. The system includes timers, dusk-to-dawn automation, and four independent circuits, all housed in a durable, weatherproof enclosure.
Energy Efficiency :
All fittings are high-quality LEDs, zoned to reduce unnecessary energy use. Areas can be selectively illuminated to suit mood or occasion, keeping running costs low.
Future Proof:
The scheme is designed for longevity and flexibility:
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Electrical supply to pond pump and pond lighting
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Power and lighting for garden house and porch
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Outdoor sockets for seasonal or future expansion
Long warranties and the optional service plan ensure the system is protected and easy to maintain over time.
Client Testimonial:
"Our sunken garden is now a complete transformation. It’s safe, atmospheric, and perfect for entertaining. The lighting highlights every feature beautifully, and the garden house is now inviting and functional at night. Eagle & Spear exceeded our expectations."
