As the summer months fade way, so do the longer days and
carefree nights spent outdoors. With the darker, cooler nights ahead, it is
important to start preparing your exterior spaces now for entertainment that
will transcend the seasons. Our friends at
Progress Lighting have some tips to
extend your outdoor living experiences while improving your home’s aesthetic.
Illuminate your living spaces
Keep frequently used outdoor
areas, such as decks or patios, appropriately lit so that your home remains
welcoming. Fixtures that further the unique architectural elements of your home
like decorative posts and wall lanterns offer beautiful accents along with
their efficiency in keeping your exterior comfortable.
·
LED Lights
This type of light is highly
energy efficient, meaning that your electricity bill will remain low while the longevity
of LED technology keeps your outdoor lights low-maintenance. Improved color
temperature options allow these once harsh lights to provide a warm, inviting
glow that illuminates outdoor areas with comfort.
·
Brighten your pathways
Landscape lights can improve
safety and security while also making your yard appear larger. Position lights on
alternate sides of a pathway so that they provide even illumination, and avoid
shadows from steps or plants.
·
Accent lighting techniques
Using unique light fixtures to
highlight entryways and stationary pieces can create points of interest and
focal points that engage visitors.
·
Remember balance and symmetry
In order to best illuminate your
outdoors while avoiding an eyesore, remember that lighting should be
proportional across the various areas of the property and remain symmetrical.
Highlight existing symmetrical components of your home like columns or corresponding
bushes with appropriate fixtures to draw the eye evenly.