Moonlighting: The Garden Lighting Trend Of Autumn

Homeowners are being told how to create autumn’s newest garden trend in their outdoor space as the evenings begin to draw in. 

The outdoor lighting experts from LightingLegends.com say that moonlighting is set to be a popular lighting trend in the coming months and are sharing how to recreate the gentle effect. As summer begins to wind down, many Brits are still looking to make the most of their gardens, and this new trend brings a calm, inviting ambience to outdoor evenings. Moonlighting refers to a style of lighting that mimics the natural glow of the moon, subtly casting shadows and creating a soft, dappled light similar to that of moonbeams. Achieving this look relies on selecting the right type of lighting and carefully considering its placement to ensure the effect is as natural as possible. Placing lighting high up helps to emulate the way moonlight filters down through trees and across open spaces.

It’s important to ensure that all fixtures are securely fastened and that someone is on hand to help avoid accidents. 

Adam Wilkins, managing director at Lighting Legends, commented: “As summer slowly draws to a close and the evenings begin to get darker, outdoor lighting will help you make the most of your garden in the autumn and winter months. There are many ways you can place lighting to create the right ambience, and moonlighting is a lovely, subtle way to bring a cosy, atmospheric feel to your garden. Moonlighting is a trend we’ll be seeing more over the coming months thanks to the soft, cosy atmosphere it provides. Using this effect will make you feel as though you’re wrapped up in nature, with gentle light filtering through just like moonlight.”

How to create the moonlight effect with outdoor lighting:

Types of lighting

To create a moonlight effect, opt for simple lighting that casts soft shadows across the lawn, and avoid decorative options like lanterns and fairy lights. LED spotlights are a great choice, as they can be placed strategically to subtly mimic moonlight and create natural-looking shadows.

Choose a  tone that mimics the moon

To closely replicate the silvery appearance of real moonlight, cooler-toned lighting is more effective. Cool whites tend to produce a soft, ethereal glow that mirrors the natural moonbeam effect.

Placement of lighting

Lighting should be subtle and kept out of direct eye lines to avoid discomfort when lounging in the garden. Angle your lights downwards and position them behind plants or foliage to cast natural-looking shadows and create gentle silhouettes on surfaces.

Ensure the lights are high enough

Moonlighting works best when lights are placed high, as though they are shining down from the moon itself. Installing lights in trees or high structures helps cast branch shadows and prevents harsh spotlighting, creating an ambient feel in your garden.

Less is more

Lighting shouldn’t be harsh or eye-piercing, it should be gentle. Using fewer lights allows shadows to stand out and prevents the area from becoming too brightly lit.

Take safety precautions

When installing lights in trees or other high-up spots, it’s important to consider safety. Always ensure ladders are stable and ideally have someone assist you during installation. Make sure all fittings are secure to prevent lights from falling and causing injury in the future.