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Dabney Collins' philosophy draws from old wisdom: Gardens hold
deep potential and power to enrich human life, creating space for meaningful
connection with one another and the natural world around us. The landscape
design-build firm, based in upstate South Carolina, has spent nearly three
decades shaping landscapes that tell a story — gardens with a rich sense of
history, place, and connection.
Lighting is an essential piece of the Dabney Collins vision, amplifying the magic
of each garden into the evening hours. The firm's lighting division is devoted to
crafting elegant illumination that evokes feelings of sanctuary and wonder while
extending the safety and enjoyment of each outdoor space.
Brian Pinner leads the lighting team, with Jim Collins and Joseph Carlson as
collaborative installers, under the guidance of visionary owner Kenny Collins.
Together, they bring artistry and technical mastery to every project. Kenny,
Brian, and Joseph are graduates of the International Landscape Lighting Institute,
where Brian also serves as a mentor, helping to guide the next generation of
lighting professionals.
DABNEY COLLINS
UPSTATE, SC
Dabney Collins
THIS PAGE: Higher Kelvin lamps for the young cedars
introduce a playful color contrast that echoes the
whimsical nature of the frog fountain and enlivens the
otherwise monochromatic backdrop. Achieving this effect
required thoughtful coordination early in the construction
process to discreetly conceal multiple fixtures. Downlights
are mounted behind the columns and within the pots, while
shrouded well lights are seamlessly integrated into the
hardscape, allowing the lighting to feel both theatrical and
effortless.
Garden designed by Dabney Peeples and Nathan Schaupp
Photography by Aaron Greene
