6 Strategic Spots to Place Outdoor Lighting

One of the best things about summer is the nice warm weather that is perfect for spending time outside. However, many of us work long hours and by the time we get home, shower, and grab a meal, the sun is almost down.

At Woodfield Landscaping, we know the perfect solution for homeowners who would like to extend outdoor fun beyond daylight: we’re talking about outdoor lighting.

We’ve installed many outdoor lighting systems and helped many homeowners not only improve usability of their yards, but also increase their property’s curb appeal. Outdoor lighting fixtures are usually low-voltage (12 volts) or powered by solar energy, which makes them extremely energy-efficient. In most cases, outdoor lights have two key benefits: lighting the area to ensure safe use and highlighting certain landscape features for aesthetic reasons.

While designing an outdoor lighting layout or having your local Maryland landscaping company do the job, remember that lights need to be placed strategically.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas

Pathways and steps

Place the lights on both sides of all pathways to light the way. This will help you easily navigate them in darkness and will be of great aid to your guests who are unfamiliar with your property. Be sure to also illuminate the steps, because it’s very easy to stumble and hurt oneself in the darkness.

Patios and decks

Use illuminating table centerpieces, string lights, soft lanterns, tiki torches, or whatever fits your style and landscape design. Install multiple light sources of different brightness, so that you could easily take your patio or deck from party to romantic.

House number and mailbox

A bright-lit house number will help guests arriving after dark easily spot your home. Especially if it’s located too far away from the road and the street lights are not of much use.  Also, people are less likely to hit your mailbox by accident if it’s properly illuminated.

Garage and side doors

Put motion-activated flood lights near garage and house entrances. They are very convenient because you don’t have to flip the switch and double as a security measure in case someone approaches your house in the dark of the night.

Landscape features

Create dramatic lighting to highlight your beautiful landscape elements, such as well-groomed trees and bushes, flower beds, sculptures, ponds, fountains, etc. Be careful not to overdo it by placing too many bright lights all over the place: you don’t want your property to look like an amusement park.

Pool and hot tub

If your pool or hot tub didn’t come with pre-installed lights, it might be a good idea to place lights along the perimeter. For tub, you could use low ambient lights to create relaxing atmosphere. As for the pool, you can install something brighter to better illuminate the surface of the water.

Have questions about outdoor lighting or would like us to design a custom lighting system for your property? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help!