Outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular, and for a good reason. They provide a relaxing retreat to enjoy fresh air, nature, and good company. Lighting plays a crucial role in creating an inviting and comfortable outdoor living area. Here are some ways to enhance your outdoor living space with lighting:
Highlight Architectural Features
Besides highlighting outdoor features, lighting can also accentuate architectural details of your home or structures. For example, you can install lights along the edges of a pergola to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Create a Moonlit Effect
One of the most magical things about spending time outside at night is the way the moonlight illuminates everything. You can recreate this effect by using soft, diffused lighting in your outdoor space. Use globe-shaped bulbs or lanterns to create a cozy and intimate ambiance in your outdoor living area.
Add a Layer of Light
When it comes to lighting your outdoor space, it’s important to think about layers. This means using different types of lighting at different levels to create depth and dimension. For example, you can use a combination of overhead lighting, path lights, and table lamps to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Use Coloured Lighting
Another way to add personality and style to your outdoor living space is to use coloured lighting. Coloured bulbs or LED lights can be used to create a unique and customised atmosphere. For example, you can use blue lighting to create a calming, spa-like atmosphere or red lighting to create a more romantic mood.
Install Dimmer Switches
Dimmer switches are a great way to adjust the lighting in your outdoor space to suit different moods and occasions. For example, you can dim the lights for an intimate dinner party or brighten them up for a lively outdoor gathering.
Use Lighting to Define Spaces
If you have a large outdoor living area, you can use lighting to create distinct zones or areas. For example, you can use overhead lighting to define a dining area and path lighting to define a lounge area.
Illuminate Trees and Plants
In addition to highlighting specific features in your outdoor space, you can also use lighting to showcase the natural beauty of your trees and plants. Up-lighting can be used to create a dramatic effect on tall trees. Whilst subtle spotlights can be used to highlight the colours and textures of your garden beds.
In conclusion, lighting is an important element in creating an inviting and comfortable outdoor living space. By incorporating these tips, you can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space and create an atmosphere that you and your guests will love.
Disclaimer: The opinions posted within this blog are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate, others employed by Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate or the organisations with which the network is affiliated. The author takes full responsibility for his opinions and does not hold Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate or any third party responsible for anything in the posted content. The author freely admits that his views may not be the same as those of his colleagues, or third parties associated with the Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate network.