Path Lighting Design Guide

Path lighting is about more than just lighting up a walkway — it’s about creating safe, beautiful transitions throughout your outdoor space. Whether you're guiding guests to your front door or defining the edge of a winding garden trail, the right approach to path lighting makes a big impact.

And no — it doesn’t have to look like a line of garden stakes. In this guide, we’ll break down the three most effective ways to light a path and when to use each style.

What Is Path Lighting?

Path lighting refers to any lighting technique used to illuminate a walkway, pathway, or transition zone. Its purpose is to:

  • Improve safety and visibility

  • Create atmosphere and flow

  • Enhance nighttime curb appeal

There are three main ways to light a path:

  • Option 1 – Traditional Path Lights (Fixture-on-a-Stem)

These are the most common type of path lighting: small fixtures mounted on 18–24" stems that cast a soft pool of light downward and outward. They’re installed in mulch beds, turf edges, or gravel lines.

Best For:

  • Curved garden paths

  • Entry walks with surrounding landscaping

  • Areas needing visual softness

Avoid:

  • Runway effect (place lights in a staggered pattern, not mirrored)

  • Overcrowding (5–8 feet apart is usually ideal)

  • Cheap aluminum fixtures (they corrode fast in Florida)

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  • Option 2 – In-Grade Marker Lights (Flush-Mounted)

In-grade or “marker” lights are installed directly into concrete, pavers, turf, or gravel. These flush-mounted fixtures are ideal when you want clean, modern lighting without visible fixtures.

Best For:

  • Modern or minimalist designs

  • Narrow walkways or hardscape paths

  • HOA areas where visibility of fixtures is a concern

Avoid:

  • Installing too close to wet mulch or soil that floods

  • Using without glare shielding in areas with high foot traffic

At Ecotek, we often alternate these on both sides of a path for even spread without cluttering the view.

Read our Landscape Lighting Design Guide

  • Option 3 – Downlighting (Tree-Mounted or Structure-Mounted)

Downlighting uses fixtures mounted in trees, pergolas, or rooflines to cast soft light from above, mimicking natural moonlight. When aimed carefully, it creates dappled, ambient light across a walkway with no fixtures visible at ground level.

Best For:

  • Naturalistic settings (wooded lots, curved walkways)

  • Clients who want minimalistic lighting with max impact

  • Long, winding paths that would otherwise require 10+ fixtures

Avoid:

  • Mounting in small or unhealthy trees

  • Harsh angles that create hotspots

We frequently use this method for clients with large oaks or tall palms, integrating it with uplit trees to create layered depth.

What We Recommend (And When)

Every path and property is different. At Ecotek, we often blend techniques for the best outcome:

  • Classic front walk? 

Staggered traditional path lights, possibly with an accent on surrounding plants.

  • Modern paver entry? 

In-grade markers with warm white output.

  • Curved lakeside path? 

Tree-mounted downlighting paired with occasional fixtures for contrast.

We design based on your landscape, architecture, and how you use the space — not just fixture count.

Ready to Talk About Path Lighting for Your Property?

If you’re unsure which approach makes the most sense, we can help. Ecotek Outdoor Lighting designs and installs custom path lighting systems that balance form and function — with fixture styles and mounting methods tailored to your goals. We serve homeowners, businesses, and HOAs across Central Florida.