Outdoor Lighting Fixtures: Tips and information on creating the perfect blend of safety and ambiance
Outdoor Lighting Fixtures … I don’t know about you but when I think of outdoor lighting fixtures, I think of porch lights and other functional fixtures. It’s a bit like when someone turns up at the door at night, you can easily see who’s there. Keep in mind however, a single light fixture outside doesn’t even remotely satisfy function.
In order to fulfill the primary objective of safety, you need a very well lit area well in front of your door as well. Now, if you’re going to the expense and cost of outdoor lighting fixtures that provide security and safety, you may as well start now making a plan to place fixtures that also add to the attractiveness of your main entry area and the landscape as well.
Here are some simple tips on making sure your outdoor lighting fixtures fulfill security, safety and beauty.
Now, to help start you formulate your lighting strategy, go outside your home when it is dark. If your like most of us and your only outdoor lighting fixtures is to the side of your front door, you may find it difficult to walk from the street to your front door without falling over or carefully picking your way. Yet, many of us have this very basic type of lighting, not even giving it a second thought. If you have particular difficulty getting to your door from the driveway, imagine how visitors must feel.
Three Great Outdoor Lighting Fixture Tips
First tip. Path ways that lead from the driveway to your steps should be well lit. One great option are solar lights, hugging the perimeter of your pathways, are very inexpensive to install and operate these days.
Another suggestion… If you have a front porch and an old light fixture to the side of the door, you might even consider adding a few back lit patio planters to each side of the door. This easy solution is very simple, particularly inexpensive and adds a lot of drama which creates an attractive and very welcoming appearance.
Another great festive look is very easy to achieve using patio planters that contain quite tall plants. String those tiny white lights throughout the leaves and see them shine.
Try this one… If your front yard has any large trees, try some up lighting as well as back lighting. This fantastic technique spreads a wide amount of dramatic outdoor lighting over a large area.
Last but not least. Should you feel that you need some professional advice on where to place some fixtures, draw a rough sketch of your property, showing roughly the placement of trees, where the paths are and driveway access. Take your sketch and ideas to a lighting shop.
Well-placed outdoor lighting fixtures is a good investment, creating a lovely night time landscape that serves double-duty as it deters intruders.
Key points to remember when deciding on Outdoor lighting fixtures:
- 1. Take a walk out in your front yard at night. How hard is it to navigate up your pathway?
- 2. Solar lights – use them effectively. They are very cheap and easy to install
- 3. Light up any large trees you may have
- 4. If you get stuck, seek some professional help at your local lighting store.
Do you have any other suggestions? Let us all know.
