Outdoor lighting is one of the most important components of a well-designed landscape. It illuminates key pathways, highlights charming features and creates an alluring ambiance after dark.
It’s best to consider what kind of look you want to achieve with your lighting before selecting fixtures. Determine whether you’re looking for safety, highlighting plants or creating silhouettes of structures and other details. You’ll also need to decide how bright the lights should be and whether you prefer them to be dimmable.
Most designers opt for subtle, glare-free illumination that lets you see your surroundings, but doesn’t blast the space with light. To accomplish this effect, carefully angle your lighting fixtures so their rays fall on a surface that diffuses rather than directly on your seating area or a path where you’ll be walking.
The color of the lights plays a big role in your yard’s overall mood. Warm tones resembling the soft glow of candlelight are ideal for fostering a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cooler hues evoke a clean and crisp aesthetic. When selecting fixtures, look for finishes that are durable and resistant to the elements.
Having proper lighting in your outdoor spaces will help prevent accidents and other mishaps caused by darkness. Don’t risk tripping on stairs you didn’t see or getting splashed by a pool that’s hidden from view. With careful planning, a few simple fixtures and some savvy techniques, you can easily illuminate your home’s exterior and transform it into an alluring nighttime oasis.