At Northwest Outdoor Lighting, we believe your home should shine — but never outshine the stars. That’s why we’ve partnered with DarkSky International as an official Corporate Ally in the movement to reduce light pollution and restore the natural beauty of the night sky.
Why Dark Sky Lighting Matters
Most outdoor lighting unintentionally causes glare, wastes energy, and disrupts ecosystems. It impacts:
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Wildlife – Migratory birds, bats, pollinators, and nocturnal animals
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Sleep cycles – For both humans and pets
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Night sky visibility – Fewer stars, more skyglow
DarkSky-friendly lighting creates spaces that feel safer, more serene, and better aligned with nature — without compromising on beauty or performance.
Our Design Commitment: The 5 Principles of Responsible Outdoor Lighting
Every system we install follows these best practices:
1. Useful
We design with purpose — every fixture serves a clear need.
2. Targeted
Light is directed only where it’s needed. No more spillover or glare.
3. Low Level
We use the lowest light levels that still provide safety, beauty, and comfort.
4. Controlled
Our systems are on timers to ensure that light is available when needed and turned off when not. That means more control for you — and less impact on your surroundings.
5. Warm Colored
We choose warm white (3000K or lower) for a more inviting, less disruptive glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is DarkSky lighting?
A: It’s outdoor lighting that reduces glare, light trespass, and skyglow by using shielded, purpose-driven fixtures with warm color temperatures.
Q: Will DarkSky lighting make my home less safe?
A: Not at all. In fact, well-placed, targeted lighting makes walkways and entrances more visible — without wasting energy or disrupting the environment.
Q: Can I retrofit my existing lights?
A: Yes! We offer DarkSky–friendly upgrades and full-system redesigns.
Lighting for the Next Generation
“This isn’t just about lights. It’s about legacy.”
When we first started installing landscape lights over 20 years ago, we had a vision: to make homes feel welcoming, beautiful, and safe. What we didn’t realize then was how much outdoor lighting choices affect the world beyond the yard — the wildlife, the sky, and even future generations.
Now, with our kids and grandkids involved in the business, that vision has deepened.
As parents and grandparents, we want to protect the things that matter most: family, beauty, and the natural rhythms of night. That’s why we’ve joined DarkSky International as a Corporate Ally — because we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between a stunning home and a star-filled sky.
It’s not about doing less. It’s about doing better — together.
– Mary & Craig
Founders, Northwest Outdoor Lighting
