Creating a Moonlighting Effect
Our expert explains how to replicate the look of moonlight coming through trees, regardless of available foliage.
 
outdoor lighting
Moonlighting refers to the chiaroscuro pattern of light through leaves. Photo by Dennis Anderson.
We would like to get the moonlighting effect in our backyard, but our trees are on the small side. Is there anything we can do while we are waiting for our trees to mature?

So you want a dappled pattern of light and shadow but are just too impatient to let nature take its course? Well, I'm right there with you! Just like having dessert served before the main course, I want the good stuff right now. There are some products out there that project patterns of light, which create the illusion of moonlight moving through branches. Beachside Lighting has an MR16 projector that can cast shadow patterns, or just about anything you want to project. They are currently testing it out with the new Soraa LED MR16 that is rated for enclosed exterior fixtures. B-K Lighting is producing an integrated LED projector that is a part of its Denali Series. These fixtures can be mounted below the eaves of the house, gazebo or other outdoor structures. They can also be installed near the base of building façades or retaining walls to enliven those surfaces at night with shadows. Immediate gratification is so satisfying.

randall_whitehead
Randall Whitehead, IALD

Randall Whitehead, IALD, is a professional lighting designer and author. His books include "Residential Lighting, A Practical Guide." Whitehead has worked on projects worldwide, appeared on the Discovery Channel, HGTV and CNN, and he is regular guest on Martha Stewart Living Radio. Visit his website www.randallwhitehead.com and follow his blog www.lightmakesright.com for more information on books, upcoming seminars and the latest lighting trends.

Leave A Comment

  • Web page addresses and e-mail addresses turn into links automatically.
  • Allowed HTML tags: <a> <em> <strong> <cite> <code> <ul> <ol> <li> <dl> <dt> <dd>

More information about formatting options

By submitting this form, you accept the Mollom privacy policy.

Lastest from ask randall

You know how I feel about trying to make one type of light fixture do all of the work. This is the master bath, your very special and personal domain... read full story
I was just working on a project with the same need. We found some nicely done back-lit mirrors that were more in the "wrist-and-ankle" price range.... read full story
I'll tell you what we are doing on projects to cover up a recessed fixture that is no longer in use. We actually use a speaker cover to make the... read full story
You are asking these four recessed LED cans to do a lot, my friend. When your parents face the counters to do food prep, their backs will be to the... read full story

Webinars

Sponsored by Access Lighting, Kichler Lighting, Kimberly LED Lighting, Auroralight and Antares Lighting. The lighting marketplace is changing more rapidly today than at any... read full story
A question that many designers and consumers are asking is whether LED lighting is ready for general home use. In this seminar, we will discuss answers to that question by... read full story
In this seminar, we will discuss the rapid changes and innovations that are occurring in LED lighting, and the dramatic impact that LEDs are having in the retail and... read full story