We wanted the title to grab your attention, even though we realize using the word “screams” may not be the best analogy. It could stir images of brightly colored flood lamps and rock show stages. We realize most homeowners won’t be going there. Still, there’s no denying that ambiance sets the mood—and, when you look at it that way, outdoor lighting goes a long way in setting your stage.
Using LED lights is the most cost-effective source of outdoor lighting. It’s far less expensive as far as the monthly utility bill goes. Moreover, LED lights last years longer than either CFL or incandescent lights do. LED lights also make changing light colors as easy as picking up the remote and pressing a button or two. For that matter, some outdoor lighting comes with the option to download an app for your phone!
Whatever environment you’re creating, you want it to grab your friends and family and pull them in. Right? Here’s a list of some popular outdoor lighting sources. If you haven’t already got them in place, you may decide to incorporate them into your design.
Let’s get started!
Hanging lanterns
It seems as if hanging lanterns have always been a popular style of outdoor lighting—even when people were literally constructing them out of paper. We won’t look up the stats, but it’s safe to say that may not have been the best plan when using electric light sources. Old school bulbs burn hot. There may have been a fire or two that got started over the years…
Today, hanging lanterns are made of non-flammable materials and more than likely use an LED light source. Much safer, and very eye-catching.
String lights
String lighting can be found in a variety of styles and colors. As a matter of fact, now that LED lighting is so common, you can change up the color when the mood hits.
Hanging over seating areas or wound through tree branches and shrubbery are both popular ways homeowners use these lights outdoors.
Outdoor chandelier
Outdoor chandeliers are a great way to illuminate a seating or outdoor eating area. They are available in many styles. If you’re going for elaborate, tear-drop crystals aren’t out of the question, however, homeowners are able to go ultra-casual, too. Prices range according to those extremes as well.
Pendant lights
Pendant lights are great for pinpointing areas that you want to illuminate. They come in a wide variety of styles. Everything from ultra-modern to traditional styles and all points in between.
Again, prices range according to taste.
Scone lights
Again, these lights are great for pinpointing areas of light and come in a multitude of styles. You may even want to incorporate a lighted water feature in this style—they’re available! Of course, they’re probably on the higher end of the spectrum cost-wise, but you may decide they’re worth it!
Homemade table lanterns
You can create beautiful table lanterns by using battery-powered string lights. Let your imagination soar! A great idea if you’re designing on a small budget… and these days, who isn’t?
By the way, if you like the mason jar idea shown here, go for it, by all means. You can’t get much more inexpensive than that!
LED rope lights
These lights are great for lining walkways or garden boundaries. They aren’t affected by the weather because they’re encased. You can run rope lights on the lanai or throughout your pool enclosure as well.
Solar stakes
We chose an image with a garden of solar flowers, but these lights come in a multitude of designs, of course. Lots of homeowners use solar stake lights to light their driveways or walking paths.
Of course, these lights definitely pay for themselves over time and are totally “green” no matter what color you choose.
Yard globes
These lights can be solar-powered but are often powered with LED lights instead. They come in a variety of colors and sizes as well.
Spotlight
Spotlights are great for creating a bright light source in the night. Strategically placed, they won’t be shining directly into people’s eyes. They’re often used to spotlight areas out in the yard as well, of course.
Floating pool lights
Powered with LED bulbs, floating pool lights are becoming a popular trend. The cascade of colors creates a gentle glow that most people find mesmerizing. You can find an array of designs and many of them come equipped to perform a preprogrammed light show.
No place like home
If you haven’t enclosed your lanai or pool area yet, you can eliminate the barrage of bugs that outdoor lighting attracts. The finely woven screen allows every breeze to pass through but bugs and mosquitoes are barred access. Imagine what a bug-free summer in Florida might be like and give us a call if you’d like to know how we can help you achieve that—from now on.
Moreover, taking advantage of our customization feature allows you to create a backyard getaway spot that completely changes your environment! It could even alter your lighting design once your mind begins to comprehend the possibilities. Digital imagery makes anything possible!
Creating an enticing outdoor living space is part of what makes your house a home. Your family will be more apt to spend a quantity of quality time there. And, if that’s not the best of both worlds, we don’t know what is.