Architectural and facade lighting in Dorset
Architectural lighting uses LED wall washers, uplights, linear grazers and bollards to light a building's facade, entrance and landscaping after dark. We cover Dorset, including Bournemouth, Poole and Weymouth.
Architectural and facade lighting work in Dorset
Facade lighting in Dorset works best when it picks out the architecture rather than flooding the whole elevation.
What's included
- Entrance canopy and signage lighting
- Timeclock and photocell control
- Landscape and path bollards
- Planning-friendly specifications where consent is needed
Guide prices in Dorset
Typical budgets for Dorset, supplied and installed, excluding VAT. Your fixed price follows a free survey.
| Item | Guide budget (ex VAT) | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| LED floodlight | £205 – £510 | per fitting, supplied and fitted |
| 6 m column with LED lantern | £815 – £1,530 | per column, incl. foundation and a moderate cable run |
| Scissor or boom lift hire | £155 – £305 | per day |
| Commercial electrician | £305 – £510 | per day |
Example: 10 LED floodlights washing a building facade, about £2,050 – £5,100 excluding VAT.
Rules that apply in Dorset
Approved Document L (2021 edition, with 2023 amendments) asks for new general lighting to average at least 95 luminaire lumens per circuit-watt, or to use the LENI method. The 2026 edition raises this to more than 105 for work under it from 24 March 2027.
Towns we cover in Dorset
- Bournemouth
- Poole
- Weymouth
- Christchurch
- Ferndown
- Dorchester
- Wimborne Minster
- Allington
- Beaminster
- Bryanston
- Castleton
- Charminster
- Colehill
- Gillingham
- Lyme Regis
- Portland
- Shaftesbury
- Sturminster Newton
- Swanage
- Upton
- Verwood
- Wareham
Architectural and facade lighting FAQs for Dorset
What energy rules apply to new lighting in Dorset?
Approved Document L sets the efficiency that new lighting in Dorset must meet. We check fittings against it at design stage and keep the evidence for building control.
Which fire safety law applies in Dorset?
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets the duties of the person responsible for fire safety, including emergency lighting where escape routes need it.
Do I need planning permission for facade lighting?
Sometimes, particularly in conservation areas or where lighting is prominent. Check with your local planning authority before installing.