Magic of Tree Lighting
Landscape Lighting in Trees Turn mature trees into architectural focal points—dramatic shadows, depth, and refined coastal ambiance.
Trees become architecture at night.
In the Hamptons—East Hampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, and Montauk—properties often feature mature oaks, American beeches, Japanese maples, London planes, and ornamental evergreens. Strategic lighting adds depth and a composed coastal mood without feeling over-lit.
Four ways to sculpt trees with light
The most effective technique is uplighting—then add moonlighting, silhouetting, and grazing for a layered, high-end result.
Uplighting
Fixtures near the base illuminate trunk, branching structure, and canopy. The Hamptons staple for estate homes.
- Mature oak trees
- Beech trees
- Japanese maples
- Estate driveway allées
- Specimen trees near entry courts
- 12–36 inches from trunk
- Aim upward through branch structure
- Avoid pointing directly at leaf clusters
- Use multiple angles for depth
Tree Size + Output
Fixtures, optics, and lumen ranges by height
- 1–2 fixtures
- 30–40° beam angle
- 12–24 in. from trunk
- 2700K warm white
- 2–3 fixtures
- Position at multiple angles
- 30–40° beam spread
- 700–900 lumens per fixture
- 3–5+ fixtures
- Combine 15–25° (trunk) + 35–60° (canopy)
- 900–1300 lumens per fixture
- For dense trees, place some fixtures outside the drip line
- Solid brass LED spotlights
- In-ground well lights (flush for clean look)
- Low-voltage 12V systems
- IP65+ wet rating
Avoid “one-and-done” aiming. Multiple angles create depth and reduce glare. Always test at night before final placement.
Moonlighting (Downlighting)
Install fixtures high in the canopy (or on nearby structures) to cast soft light downward—natural “moonlit” ambiance with dappled shadows.
- Oak trees over patios
- Pool decks
- Waterfront lawns
- Outdoor dining areas
- Natural “moonlit” ambiance
- Soft, dappled shadows
- Elegant estate-level atmosphere
- Use lower lumens + wider beams for subtlety
For high-end properties, combine uplighting + moonlighting for layered depth.
Silhouetting
Position a fixture behind the tree aimed toward a wall, hedge, or architectural façade for a bold, sculptural outline.
- Modern Hamptons homes
- Coastal shingle-style architecture
- Feature trees near entryways
Keep intensity restrained—silhouetting reads strongest when the background plane is evenly lit and glare is controlled.
Grazing (Bark Texture)
Fixtures placed close to the trunk highlight bark detail—an understated luxury cue for mature specimens.
- Mature oak bark
- Beech trees
- London planes
Close placement intensifies texture—test at night to avoid hot spots and preserve a calm, coastal glow.
Coastal durability isn’t optional.
The Hamptons environment is harder on lighting systems than inland installations—salt air, wind, sandy soil, heavy rain, and nor’easters demand better materials and better drainage.
- Salt air corrosion
- High winds
- Sandy soil
- Heavy rain and nor’easters
- Solid brass fixtures
- Marine-grade powder-coated aluminum
- Direct burial cable rated for wet locations
- Proper drainage under in-ground well lights
Brass fixtures are strongly recommended for oceanfront properties in Montauk, Southampton, and East Hampton.
2026 best practices
Refined results come from controlled warmth, correct optics, and smart automation tuned to the Hamptons season.
Request a Lighting PlanLED Low-Voltage Systems
12V systems (safe and efficient), 40,000+ hour lifespan, dimmable capability, and a warm 2700K color temperature.
Lumens & Beam Angles
700–1300 lumens depending on tree size. 15–25° for trunk emphasis, 35–60° for canopy fill.
Smart Controls
Astronomical timers, app-based zone control, and integration with estate automation systems.
Trusted Brands
Coastal, Dauer, and Sterling.
Ready to refine your property after dark?
We design tree lighting that respects architecture, landscape, and the Hamptons coastal environment—warm, layered, and quietly premium.