Light the wall behind, and let the plants draw the picture.
Lighting that washes a wall or fence from behind or beside a tree or shrub, so the plant becomes a dark silhouette, or casts a bold shadow across the wall.
- Silhouette: Light the wall behind the plant
- Shadow: Light the plant from the front so it casts a shadow
- Best on: Smooth walls and plants with a clean shape
What it is, and why it matters.
Silhouetting and shadowing work by reversing the usual rule. Instead of lighting the plant, you light the surface behind it, and the plant appears as a dark shape against a glowing wall. Shadowing places the fixture in front so the plant throws a large, dramatic shadow onto the wall.
We install silhouette and shadow lighting for homes in Nashville and across Middle Tennessee. We pick plants with strong, clean shapes, such as ornamental grasses, Japanese maples and architectural evergreens, and walls or fences that provide a smooth, light backdrop.
Four things done right.
A graphic look
Dark shapes on a glowing wall read like art.
Works in small spaces
A narrow side yard can become a feature.
Uses few fixtures
A single well-placed light can create a big effect.
Shapes chosen with care
We pick plants whose outlines look good as silhouettes.
From first call to silhouette and shadow lighting.
- 01
Pick the plant and wall
We choose plants with a clean outline and a wall that suits the effect.
- 02
Test from behind and front
We try both silhouette and shadow after dark.
- 03
Install and aim
Fixtures and wire are installed and aimed.
- 04
Balance
We set the brightness so the effect is dramatic but calm.
Silhouette and Shadow Lighting across Middle Tennessee.
We do this work in 28 cities, from Nashville and Franklin to Murfreesboro, Gallatin, Columbia and Dickson.
Silhouette and Shadow Lighting: common questions
What kind of plants work best?
Plants with a strong, clear shape, like ornamental grasses, Japanese maples and sculptural evergreens. Dense, shapeless shrubs make poor silhouettes.
Can this be combined with other lighting?
Yes. It pairs well with path and accent lighting, and most designs use more than one technique.
How do I get a price for silhouette and shadow lighting?
Fill in the form or call or text 615-431-3789. We confirm what is involved and send a written price, and most projects start with a free visit.
Ready to talk about silhouette and shadow lighting?
A visit at dusk and a written price. A real person calls back, usually the same day.