Lighting is as important outdoors as it is indoors. Outside, lights have functional purposes, like allowing for transport, production, and movement, strengthening security, as well as creating a space for many other activities in the home that take place after dark. But outdoor lighting is also a way of beautification and it has a particular role in architecture.

Lights have the power of creating a specific ambiance and modifying the environment to suit different events or activities.

There is no doubt that indoor lighting is well developed, aiming to satisfy specific needs, designed to create a particular mood in each room of the house. As underlined by the experts of Puk.it, outdoor lighting, while more and more taken care of now as an important aspect of the whole efficiency and design of the house, allows for much more room when it comes to experimenting and being creative.

So, why is outdoor lighting so important? And how can we use it to improve our lives or maximize their benefits?

Why pay attention to outdoor lighting?

With warmer weather, there is more use of outdoor spaces. Family reunions, friends’ meetings, or just people in their patios and gardens enjoying the freshness of the evening. While each season poses its own challenges when it comes to lighting, and emphasizes different needs, there is no doubt that the proper lighting has a massive effect on how successful and pleasant an outdoor event can be.

When planning exterior lighting there are a few aspects that should be considered: ambiance, safety, fun, and functionality.

• Among the main reasons to take a moment to think about outdoor lighting is the goal of making the exterior of your house beautiful. We have seen it in big cities, how lights placed in the right spots can make a whole difference, bringing back to life a building, a balcony, or a deck. The exterior space can look more dynamic, making it more attractive to use.
• Safety and security are other two important reasons for people to think about outdoor lighting. A path may be illuminated to make walking at night there safe, while appropriate outdoor illumination may prevent thieves from approaching the house.
• Another reason to pay attention to outdoor lighting is simply the creation of spaces that can be used by the family for different purposes. In this case, we are combining all considerations: a family may want a space that looks beautiful, with lights that are dim but strong enough to let them read or relax outside. The ambiance is a must in this case, but also fun plays a role since this space may be used for family activities and even children can benefit. Functionality and safety are a given since this space will play an important role in the family dynamics.

Imagine a garden with a corner where there is a table and chairs. A family may enjoy eating outside in the summer or using it to play board games. A strong light, white, effective may result in a space without much appeal to the family, while colourful lights placed smartly could create an ambiance that is more enjoyable and attractive.

Where to start with outdoor lighting?

It may feel a bit overwhelming to think of where to start with fixing and lights outside your house. Even if you have a balcony or a deck, how to make the most of the investment in lights can be a challenging task.

Not to fear! Start by looking at your property and thinking about how you want to use the spaces you have available. How big is your lawn? What do you want to do out there in the evenings? Maybe a barbeque? Or perhaps a space for the family to relax? The way you want to use the spaces outdoors will determine the intensity of the lights, as well as their position and the ambiance they will create.

Another aspect that many overlook but can have a massive impact on the whole of how a house looks in the dark, is the façade. Are there any aspects you want to highlight? Any details that deserve more attention and could bring to life the house?

All of your answers will be utterly important to make a plan for your outdoor lighting. And then, you can decide to get yourself to work and find out what lights are best, or you can find the guidance of a professional. Whichever the case, make sure to have all the information before making long-term decisions.

Conclusion

It has been clearly stated that outdoor lighting is an important aspect that should not be ignored. Placing the right lights in the correct spots can completely transform your exterior and make it not only more functional, but safer and more attractive.

Whatever the budget you’re dealing with, there are options to easily and quickly create new and useful spaces in your home. The consequence? A higher quality of life for you and your family.