Outdoor lighting is just one of the many things we can add to help transform a deck or patio. However, not all of us are willing to go through the “trouble” of doing so. For many, this might mean stressing out while looking for the perfect light fixtures, spending a lot of money, and even struggling to find someone to do the job.
It can seem like a lot of chaos at first organizing and finishing a lighting project. But before you reject the idea of adding more exterior lighting to your space, hear us out for a minute. There are many things that outdoor lighting can offer that make it worth it in the end.
It Sets the Mood
Darkness in an exterior space doesn’t exactly communicate positive emotions. A dark and dreary patio or deck, especially as the nighttime approaches, can seem a little scary, sad, sketchy, and off putting. This is especially true when it comes to hosting parties or gatherings outdoors. Don’t make your guests feel “off.”
On the flip side, nothing screams beautiful, romantic, and peaceful like the inclusion of the right outdoor lighting. This is especially true when you opt for the use of warm lighting. And if you want to feel like you’re in a fairytale, go for string lighting, also known as bistro lighting.
Setting the mood is oh-so important when having guests come over. It can truly make any get-together, party, or event more memorable and exciting, and it will be remembered for all the right reasons.
It Can Illuminate the Beautiful Details of Your Space
It’s not always easy finding ways to make your favorite little details of your exterior space stand out, like certain decorations, architectural elements, or things featured inside your planters. However, outdoor lighting can certainly help make those details very visible to anyone who enters your outdoor space.
For instance, yard lights can place emphasis on plants, downlighting can show off beautiful brick or stonework, and string or bistro lighting can outline the structure of your pergola or gazebo. These details matter in a space. They’re soft on the eyes, and they add richness to an exterior space.
The illumination of the details in your outdoor space is more aesthetical than anything else. However, these aesthetical elements alone, just like lighting, help set the mood and in general create a positive environment. So, show off those little features by installing lighting that helps make them as prominent as possible!
It Makes Those Dark, Long Winters Less Intimidating
Outdoor spaces are best enjoyed when they’re made use of all year ‘round. Nothing’s worse than winter coming along and ruining your outdoor time, but you don’t have to let it. And you certainly don’t have to wait until spring or summer to enjoy it once more. Outdoor lighting can help you love the season no matter what.
Not to mention, you’ll get the most for your money when you have a well-lit outdoor space. Like, you didn’t spend thousands of dollars creating the perfect deck or patio only to use it for a few months out of the year! You deserve to feel like you’ve spent every penny wisely.
With plenty of illumination, you’ll be more likely to utilize your outdoor space more often. This means you’ll be able to extend your enjoyment of your patio or deck throughout the colder months. And instead of your exterior looking as dead as the winter, your space will be beaming with warmth and joy, even throughout the night.
It Creates a Sense of Safety & Security
Lack of safety and security are things that can make a patio or deck look and seem, well, not so amazing. Who wants to sit outside where they feel like their life is on the line? Nobody wants to enjoy time outdoors if they feel they’re at risk of tripping and falling or getting bit by a black widow, for instance. Lighting is necessary.
As an example, having lights installed on steps, down ramps, or along pathways can help prevent potential tripping episodes. This means less chances of injuries and even a reduced risk of dealing with a lawsuit. (People will sue for anything nowadays.)
Outdoor illumination in general also offers security as you’ll feel more comfortable knowing you’re less likely to be a victim of a burglary or attack from an outside source, especially if you live in a not-so-safe neighborhood or live right next to a field where snakes or wild dogs are not uncommon. Safety is so, so important.
It Provides a More Inviting Atmosphere
With a greater sense of safety and security thanks to the installation of exterior lighting, it’s easy to see how this can create a more inviting atmosphere for your deck or patio. However, there are also other ways exterior lighting can provide this benefit.
For instance, lighting above seats or along built-in benches can make your space seem more welcoming by essentially communicating, “Sit down, and stay awhile.” And thanks to proper outdoor lighting, there isn’t a perceived rush for you or your guests to leave due to it getting dark outside.
Plus, just the fact that lighting can set a positive mood makes an exterior space seem that much more inviting. After all, if somebody is in bad spirits, it only makes them feel uncomfortable and want to leave. So, spread positivity and happiness through proper outdoor lighting.
And when, and if, if ever comes to that point, the more inviting atmosphere brought on by outdoor lighting can help improve your chances of selling your home quickly. Potential homebuyers after all are looking for a place that makes them feel at home. Wouldn’t you want the same for yourself?
Conclusion
Exterior lighting can seem overrated to some people, and to some, it might even appear complicated to incorporate. In reality, completing an outdoor lighting project can be one of the best things you do. From setting the mood to offering a more inviting atmosphere, there are many benefits outdoor lighting can provide.
