I’m trying to upgrade my backyard for summer evenings, but I’m stuck on how much lighting is too much. I don’t want to flood the space, but I also want it to be safe and usable at night. Any tips on striking that balance? I’m in the Toronto area if that helps for any local advice.

You’re right to think about balance—outdoor lighting should enhance the atmosphere, not overpower it. A layered approach often works best: start with ambient lighting, then add path and accent lights. I found this landscape lighting installation in Toronto and the GTA service really helpful when I was upgrading my own setup. They helped me choose fixtures that highlight features like plants and seating areas without making the yard feel like a stadium. Also, consider installing dimmers or smart bulbs to adjust brightness depending on the occasion. Motion sensors near walkways can add both safety and efficiency. Planning your layout in zones helps ensure you’re not over-illuminating certain areas while others remain dark. Sketch out your space and play with ideas before committing.