So many residents and business owners have dedicated their love, time and money towards creating their dream outdoor area that, at night, all fades into the dark. Outdoor lighting ensures the beauty of your residence is showcased at night as well as during the day. You can illuminate all your favourite features while improving the security of your property.
Creating your own outdoor lighting design, and then installing it, can be very daunting if you are new to the world of architectural lighting. What was supposed to be a fun project can quickly become stressful and overwhelming. That is why we have outlined a very simple and straightforward strategy to help you get started.
Set a Budget
Set a BudgetAll too often we are finding that what people want and what they are willing to spend are irreconcilable. You might even have heard a friend or neighbour complaining that they spent far more than they intended on their exterior lighting. When you decide on a budget, you are far less likely to get carried away and can enjoy the final product without the guilt.
Identify Your Needs
Are you installing security lighting to discourage possible intruders? Or perhaps you want to improve the safety of your property by lighting up pathways, steps and entrances? Maybe you wish to create that magical ambience for those balmy summer evenings spent in the garden? Each of these options has unique requirements in terms of the types of lights chosen and the placement of the fittings.
For security, a good start is to light up the driveway, garage, pathway to the front door, and all entrances. Bright, cool white lights are most effective here. Lighting for safety can be less harsh and even close to the ground along walkways. Lighting to set a mood can be dimmer (either by using lower wattage lights or fewer lights) with warmer tones.
Choose Your Features and Fittings
Take time to stroll around your property and pick the exact features you wish to showcase. Then decide where you would have to place the light, and which type of fitting is required to best illuminate the chosen object or area.
It is important to remember that different types of lights work better in various areas. For example, a very different fixture is needed to light stairs than to up-light a favorite tree.
Popular belief is that incandescent bulbs trump LED lights because they have a warmer glow and cost significantly less. In the long run, LED lights work out cheaper due to their energy efficiency, longevity and durability. Also, with so many developments in the field, LED lights now come in a variety of warmer and cooler tones to suit your preferences and needs.
We hope you have found this list helpful in getting you started with your lighting project. If you would like more information or a free consultation, feel free to chat to a specialist at Southern Landscape Lighting Systems in Alpharetta, GA.