Lighting is a key part of any outdoor space. It adds ambience and can make your home feel inviting after dark. However, there are many different types and styles of lighting available and deciding which ones to use can be overwhelming. Fortunately, this article will help you navigate the complexities of outdoor light so you can create an ideal space that both meets your needs and enhances your home’s overall aesthetic.
The best outdoor lights are durable, and the finish is also important. A quality oil rubbed bronze or powder coating will hold up well to the elements and resist fading or yellowing over time. The same is true for other metals such as copper and brass. For the same reasons, it’s important to regularly inspect and clean your outdoor lights for any signs of insect activity such as spiderwebs and nests. Lastly, the fixtures should have adequate ventilation to avoid excessive heat and possible damage.
Pathway and bollard lights are great for illuminating walkways, driveways, stairs, or covered porches. They can also be used as accent lighting to highlight a particular architectural feature of your house or garden. Wall sconces, on the other hand, can be installed just about anywhere there is a flat surface such as a column beside the front door or a wall.
Ambient landscape lighting can be used to highlight a particular feature such as a waterfall in a garden or a plant, tree or piece of art. It can also be used to illuminate a path so people can safely navigate it after dark. When choosing landscape lighting, it’s a good idea to choose fixtures that are “dark sky compliant” which helps minimize blue light that can cause headaches or disrupt natural nighttime cycles.