If you are proud of your house, you will be spending a lot of time and money making sure that your residence looks at its best during the day. But what once the sun goes down? Shouldn't your home look just as fabulous? Outdoor Lighting goes a long way in improving your homes night-time curb appeal and your time outdoors. With summer in full swing, you will probably be spending most of your time enjoying the great outdoors which includes your garden area and backyard. Don't let the fun end once the sun goes down. Outdoor Lighting not only extends the time to enjoy alfresco living, but it also maximises security and safety as well.

Here are some tips for homeowners who are looking to add some outdoor lighting.

Plan a lighting layout:

Walk around your space and identify the areas that you like to illuminate. It is a good idea to use torchlight to see how well the light enters will play with your home’s landscaping and architectural features.

It is also vital to note the areas that you would use socially as those areas compromise your security and safety.

Install lights in layers:

A good lighting design should include different layers of light that can provide three types of lighting namely task, ambient, and accent lighting.

    • Ambient lighting as its name imply, it provides overall lighting that sets the vibes of the space being lit.

    • Task lighting is for spaces where works will be done, and it should be brighter so that you can see what you are doing.

    • Action lightings are for decorative purpose, which serves to draw attention to various features reinforcing a particular style.



Go for energy efficient options:

Investing in energy efficient bulbs will end up saving you a lot of money in the long run both in the cost of replacing the bulbs and on your energy bills. For example, choosing LED bulbs can provide energy saving compared to other lights.

Stay in control:

Considering motion activated senses, time switches and day-night activated switches for Ceiling Lights and Garden Lights for savings on your lighting bills.

Don’t overdo lighting:

Too many lights can distract your guests and neighbours creating light pollution. It is better to aim for a fine, well-planned landscape lighting sight that accentuates your features, landscaping, and home.

Consider proportions:

The ideal size of al fresco light fitting should strike a balance between size and proportion. For example, a single light for the front doorway of your home should measure one-third of the front doors height. This size will balance out the proportions providing visual interest. If you plan for two lights at the entrance, each light should measure at least one quarter the size of the front door.

Also remember, all outdoor lighting should be fully sealed from natural elements like rain, splashes, and irrigation. Safety is always a must!