Cincinnati June 2021

Careful lighting
Finally, light was a crucial ingredient in this
landscaping project. An FX Luminaire lighting
system was integrated as part of the landscaping
and hardscape installation. It highlights
prominent features of the addition, as well as
the back yard. Key wanted to keep the lighting
at a low level so as to not overshadow the sky
and stars each night, and the FX Luminaire system
allows him to adjust the lighting remotely—it’s
a complex system that makes it easy
for the homeowner—and to tailor it to the
different seasons.
As we look ahead to future seasons, Pflum
has some suggestions for homeowners considering
investing in outdoor spaces. (It’s an
excellent time to do this, by the way. The trend
toward investing in outdoor living is here to
stay.) Pflum’s advice? “Take your time,” he
says. “Research the company and interview
designers. Also, really have the expectation
of the length of time it will take to design it.
A good design will take time.” He specifically
recommends not to rush through the product
selections; rather, enjoy the process and focus
on it as a long-term project that you’ll enjoy for
years to come.
Key agrees. “The first thing you have to do
is do your research and figure out what you
really love and what you have to have,” he
says. “Figure out the central theme, and then
everything else falls into place.” In his case, the
stonework and water feature—and of course,
the home’s garage doors that capture views of
the back yard, created the foundation for a unified
aesthetic and the beauty to come. ➻
Lighting can be customized depending upon the
mood the homeowner wishes to create.
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