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auntthelma

Outdoor lighting suggestions

6 months ago
last modified: 6 months ago

Our next door neighbors have made it clear that our driveway light bothers them. We have to have a light there because we are an inn. Guests come and go, so the light needs to be on all night. We strive to be good neighbors so we will switch out the light to something less intrusive. Any suggestions?

EDIT: Thank you. good info. In response to a question, we need to illuminate the driveway more than the door. Guests may arrive at night and may be unfamiliar with the house.







Comments (8)

  • 6 months ago
    last modified: 6 months ago

    I'd view this as an opportunity to get something more attractive and less industrial-looking. What are you needing to illuminate? The whole pathway? Just the door? Google non glare outdoor down lights if it's just for showing the door.

    auntthelma thanked floral_uk z.8/9 SW UK
  • 6 months ago
    last modified: 6 months ago

    A lighting store designer or electrician may be able to give you options.

    Have you tried:

    1) light fixtures with shields to direct the light onto your property?

    2) a different fixture? Lower wattage bulbs?

    3) lowering the fixture? Or lower path/fence lights rather than high overhead lights?

    4) perhaps the lights can be on a timer that turns them off between say 1am-5am? Do your guests really go outside 24/7? You can tell your guests it’s for the neighbors’ comfort or that you are following ”dark sky” principles.

    4) adding tall landscaping/fencing between the 2 properties. Perhaps your neighbors will share the cost.

    5) have you observed the lights on from your neighbor’s property? Will making changes satisfy your neighbors or do they just want zero lights at night which is not an option for you? Are you properly zoned/permitted and operating the lights within any town code requirements?

  • 6 months ago
    last modified: 6 months ago

    I can see why your neighbors are complaining. You have spotlights that point out, not down.

    There are many, many exterior lights that don’t point out. Here’s one style as an example.


    auntthelma thanked littlebug Zone 5 Missouri
  • 6 months ago
    last modified: 6 months ago

    I've just seen that the sign says 'please use other door' so it's not your main entrance. Perhaps just illuminating the sign would be enough.

  • 6 months ago

    That is a floodlight, whether you meant it or not, it's purpose here looks just for a single source of light and security for a long portion of driveway. If that is the purpose to remain, and that is the only location for a light on the house, then change that fixture to a downlight that is only for the door.

    Then add another light(s) on the opposite side of driveway towards the drive, or more downlights on the building if the driveway continues to be that close to the building, or bollard style lights lining the driveway.

    auntthelma thanked 3onthetree
  • PRO
    6 months ago

    I would select something MINIMAL as opposed to decorative. These are on Amazon. They are inexpensive and flexible and bullet proof. You can close the top if you like to minimize light.




    auntthelma thanked BeverlyFLADeziner
  • 6 months ago

    How about a traditional Onion Lantern- Will look nice with your shingles siding.

    auntthelma thanked AC M
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