Poplars Lodge.
In Partnership With .
Enhancing Character .
Poplars Lodge is a renovated country cottage set within the Kent countryside. The project included a substantial extension, redesigned interiors and extensive landscaping, creating a home that combines traditional character with contemporary living.
Lighting formed an integral part of the renovation, with the objective of creating a consistent scheme that connected the interior and exterior while complementing the architectural and landscape design.
THE BRIEF .
Working alongside the interior and garden designers, we were appointed to develop the lighting scheme for both the house and its surrounding landscape.
The lighting needed to support everyday living while enhancing the quality of the newly renovated spaces. A key objective was to create a warm and welcoming environment throughout the home, with the exterior lighting carefully integrated to complement the surrounding countryside rather than dominate it.
Our Approach .
A coordinated lighting strategy was developed across the entire property, using a combination of architectural, accent and landscape lighting to create a balanced scheme inside and out.
Internally, the lighting was designed to enhance materials, architectural details and key living spaces while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere throughout the home.
Outside, the lighting focused on subtle illumination of planting, pathways and architectural features. Rather than flooding the garden with light, the scheme uses carefully positioned fixtures to create depth and improve usability while respecting the natural surroundings.
The Products .
With the driveway requiring significant lighting to maintain fucntionality, the Tilt.L was installed in the perimeter wall to provide illumination. The narrow beam angle with the tilt function allowed for precise highlight, instead of a general wash.
Where the Tilt.L was too big to utilise, the Beam.M was introduced. These were mainly introduced into the lower pathway walls, and with a narrow beam angle, created a striking contrast lighting effect, which mirrored the lighting on the driveway.
Due to its small size, the Spot.S was able to be placed at the base of the hedges, and angled upwards to provide accent lighting. The compact size allows the Spot.S to blend into the environment during the day time, whist still delivering a powerful light output.
Low-level lighting is an integral part of creating a layered lighting scheme, and this is where the Hide came in. Installed in the stairways the Hide not only enhances aesthetics, but functionality as well.
Another low-level fitting, the Pin has a softer output compared to the Hide. Used in the bathroom settings, the soft pools of light from the Pin creates a more tranquil, spa-like vibe.
Used consistently throughout the interior, our Linear.240 provides continuous architectural illumination and enhance key design features, such as joinery detailing.
Our Impact .
Our involvement extended beyond supplying the lighting products. Working closely with the wider design team, we developed a cohesive lighting scheme that supports both the architecture and the landscape design.
By specifying a consistent colour temperature and carefully coordinating the interior and exterior lighting, we created a seamless transition between the home and its gardens. The integration of the lighting control system also provides flexibility, allowing the scheme to adapt to different activities and times of day.
The OUTCOME .
The completed lighting scheme enhances the character of Poplars Lodge while supporting the way the home is used throughout the year. The interiors feel warm and comfortable, while the gardens remain welcoming after dark without compromising their natural setting.
This project demonstrates how a considered lighting strategy can bring together architecture, interiors and landscape design to create a home that is both functional and inviting.
