Outdoor Oasis | Excellence in Lighting, Finalist

The project, known as Outdoor Oasis, unfolds as an intricate dance of light and design, deftly orchestrated by Residential Media Systems (RMS), the local integrator renowned for its mastery of smart home systems. This remarkable outdoor retreat, designed with precision and flair, stands as an exemplar of how thoughtful integration can elevate a space beyond its physical constraints.

The client sought to create a multifaceted environment where she, her family, and their guests could escape the pressures of daily life. The challenge was to craft an outdoor haven that not only offered privacy and seclusion but also accommodated a diverse array of activities. The solution lay in harnessing the natural contours of the steep embankment, which provided the ideal backdrop for this ambitious undertaking.

Encore Renovations, the builder behind this project, skillfully navigated the complexities of the site, while Rineer Designs, the interior designer, brought an astute sensibility to the aesthetic and functional needs of the space. Together, they ensured that every element, from the lush planting beds to the carefully curated hardscaping, seamlessly blended with the innovative lighting system that RMS installed.

The lighting design is a testament to both elegance and functionality. By employing a blend of electric and gas lighting, RMS created a rich tapestry of illumination that guides the eye through the expansive grounds without overwhelming the senses. The interplay of light, carefully layered and controlled, highlights the lush greenery and architectural features while maintaining an understated grace.

Central to this design is the Lutron HomeWorks QSX system, an expansion of the original setup installed in the property in 2018. Remarkably, the new system integrates without requiring the removal of existing components, illustrating RMS’s adeptness in extending functionality while preserving the integrity of the initial installation. This expansion accommodates the nuanced needs of the outdoor space, which is divided into four distinct zones, each illuminated by multiple layers of light.

The complexity of this project is evident in the subtlety of its solutions. Some lighting effects are governed by astronomical timeclock events, responding to the natural rhythms of sunset and sunrise. For day-to-day control, strategically positioned Lutron wired keypads offer intuitive scene management. The simplicity of an ‘Outdoor Off’ button, which shuts down the entire space including audio-visual components, underscores the sophisticated yet user-friendly approach taken by RMS.

Attention to detail is apparent in the custom-fabricated elements of the design. The railing, illuminated by outdoor-rated linear LED lighting, required the precise installation of approximately 800 clips to support the lighting. Similarly, the RAB tree canopy up-lighting, designed to enhance the natural beauty of the landscape, was equipped with custom glare shields to prevent light pollution from disturbing neighboring homes.

This project exemplifies how integration of technology and design can harmonise with the natural environment to create a space that is both functional and enchanting. Through meticulous planning and innovative solutions, the Outdoor Oasis emerges not just as a physical space but as a refined experience, offering a tranquil escape and a venue for joyful gatherings.