When you are looking for creative and cost-effective ways to increase the living space in your home, it could be time to think outside the box. Or at least outside your home. Adding outdoor lighting is a great way to take advantage of the space in your yard in the evenings. You can create an outdoor living room, dining room, or even an outdoor theater, and never worry about the high cost of adding square footage to your home. All you need to do is reach out to your electrician to get the project rolling.
Setting Goals
The first item on your to-do list is to decide what you want to gain from our newly found outdoor living area. Will it be a multi-purpose space that can accommodate a large group of friends for chatting and relaxing, as well as an evening meal? Or are you looking for a more intimate outdoor space that feels like a private retreat or oasis? This is the information your electrician will need to help you lay the groundwork for your exciting and functional new space.
Bright And Bold
For an entertaining space for a group, you should consider some overhead lighting. This can include fun outdoor chandeliers, globe lights, or strings of decorative bulbs to create the feel of Mardi Gras. Your electrician can help you select the ideal locations for poles that include mounting brackets and outlets to provide the power for your new lighting features.
Serene And Subtle
For a hidden garden feel, think about using fewer large fixtures and creating interest with indirect light. Backlight planters and yard art, and uplight trees and plants to create a filigree shadow along walls and fences. You might even opt for a waterproof fixture that can light a fountain or small pond for added ambiance.
Pool Fun After The Sun Goes Down
If you have a pool in your yard, adding a few lights can increase the fun after the sun goes down. Path lights around the pool deck will ensure that no one stumbles and has an accident near the water. And they will also help to illuminate puddles that could be slippery as you and your guests walk back and forth in the pool area.
Don’t Forget Safety
In addition to the perfect mood lighting, be sure to discuss safety lighting with your lighting expert. In general, you should light the path to and from any living spaces and any transitions from one surface or level to another. So plan on lights at all steps or transitions from a solid surface like a sidewalk to the softer grass or a pebble path. It will ensure that everyone enjoys your new outdoor space without any scary falls.
Added Security
In addition to the fun of an outdoor living space, you can also use outdoor lighting to increase the security around your home and property. For example, lights along the driveway and front walkways will allow you to quickly identify when someone is approaching your front door. In addition, installing small lights that accent the front of your home or plants near the foundation adds interest and beauty and deter anyone from coming close enough to look into your windows.
To learn more about adding fun living space outdoors with a lighting installation, call (501) 426-5624. The licensed electricians at Money Electric Co can provide you with tips and information to ensure that all your outdoor wiring and electrical lines are safe and comply with local building code. We offer free, no-obligation price quotes, and all of our work carries a full warranty.