The natural effect of outdoor lighting

Posted under Home Decoration, Home Improvement

When you think of outdoor lighting, do you automatically picture that strip of solar “runway” lights that lines your neighbor’s front walk or driveway? Or maybe you think of a classic single lamp post stuck in the middle of a front yard or motion-detecting lights that flick on and off automatically near the garage? All of these are well and good; but why settle for what everyone is doing, when with a little innovation and vision you can light for effect as well as functionality? Here are some quick ideas for lighting your home’s exterior.

Spotlight Your Architecture: Strategically-placed ground-mounted floodlights aimed toward your home’s front facing will add real security while also adding to your structure’s nighttime curb appeal. Hidden spotlights can also be placed under eaves pointing downwards to gently bathe the exterior in light and add a touch of class along with that little bit of extra security.

Installing low-wattage lights under trees and shrubs brings out nature’s beauty at night without being blinding. If you have flower beds in your front yard, consider running an electric line out to these areas and putting in accent lighting. Having these free-standing power outlets away from the house also allows you to jazz up your Christmas lighting.

–Pathway lights in the backyard will turn this living space into a private virtual fairyland. Choose unusual designs that direct the light downward for maximum effect.

–How about an outdoor chandelier? If you have a covered patio, this touch can not only improve usability after dark but also adds a touch of undeniable class. A good lighting store will carry a range of exterior chandelier styles and materials to choose from.

Sometimes lighting the exterior of a home for effect rather than merely for function just takes a little imagination.