waterlit

Waterlit is a term used to describe lighting that is integrated with water features to produce illumination through the water’s surface or through submerged elements. It can refer to both the appearance of water-infused lighting and the techniques employed to create that effect in architectural or landscape contexts.

Techniques include the use of submersible lights inside ponds or fountains, LED strips around basins, and fiber optics that guide light into spray or mist. Lights can be angled to emphasize reflections on the water, or color-changing units can alter mood and time of day.

Applications span architecture and landscape design, hospitality venues, parks and plazas, stage productions, and film sets where water features are part of the scene. Waterlit effects may be used to highlight features at night, mark pathways, or create ambient atmosphere.

Considerations include safety and electrical standards for wet environments, waterproofing, and IP ratings; maintenance of water quality to prevent algae build-up; energy efficiency; potential ecological impact on local wildlife; and compliance with local lighting restrictions to avoid light pollution.

See also: lighting design, water feature, fountain, underwater lighting.