When it comes to design, there are many things you should consider from colors and materials to textures and, of course, lighting. Lighting can make or break any atmosphere, which is why you want your outdoor lighting to be just as great as your indoor one, especially if you use your garden for entertaining your guests. So, to help you achieve the desired effect, here are a couple of suggestions that should help you light up your outdoor living space the right way.
Concealed lighting
Pergolas have become quite popular nowadays, and it’s not hard to see why. They fit perfectly above a hot tub, pool, or romantic lounge. Most of them are built by using heavy timbers, which gives you a perfect opportunity to hide small LED lamps. Concealing them is an art, and if you do it successfully, they will help you create a truly beautiful atmosphere. If you want to go a step further, you can also install a switch that would control the brightness of the lights. This way, you would have an appropriate lighting for both entertainment and relaxation.
Lanterns
Lanterns can be great for outdoor dining tables; they would provide you with the same soothing, shimmering light as candles, but unlike them, they wouldn’t blow out. You can also hang them from your pergola, place them along the pathways, or put them behind plants on the patio in order to create a more mysterious outdoor space. Lanterns are also easy to carry around, which means that you can always grab them and show your guests around your garden. Plus, they are affordable, so you can have as many of them as you wish.
Carriage lanterns
Carriage lanterns are a great choice for a bit more old-fashioned outdoor areas. You can place them above your stairs, at the entrances, and near other obstacles as a safety measure. In case you have decorative pillars, carriage lanterns would look perfect on top of them. If you need help setting up the electricity connection, you can always call a professional electrician who will ensure that everything works as it should.
A funky chandelier
If you want to add some character to your outdoor living space and create a smoother transition between the indoors and the outdoors, consider installing a funky chandelier that is bound to draw attention. It would look amazing above your dining or coffee table, and it would serve as a great conversation starter. Just make sure to pick the one that is approved for outdoor use. After all, it would still be exposed to the wind and moisture, and safety should always come first.
A ceiling fan
If you want to create a space for relaxation that will make you feel like you’re still inside, consider installing a ceiling fan above the seating area. It would provide you with light and breeze, which means that you’d be able to enjoy your outdoor living space even during the hottest summer days. It would also be perfect for outdoor social events. However, just like the chandelier, it should be able to withstand the elements, so choose the one with a good UL rating, and you’ll have nothing to worry about.
String lights
String lights are a very popular choice for outdoor lighting, and it’s not hard to see why. They come in many different designs, so you are bound to find more than a few that would match your exterior style. They are mostly used for adding some charm to living spaces, but you can use them for outlining your patio, guiding guests along the garden, or improving the atmosphere of your dining area. You can even wrap them around trees and bring your whole backyard to life.
Your outdoor living space should be given as much attention as the indoor one. So, make sure it is well lit according to its purpose, keep the safety in mind, and you’ll be able to enjoy all parts of your home more than ever before.