The summer season is finally here, which means we’ve fully embraced spending as much time outdoors – at all hours of the day. When things start to get dark, proper outdoor lighting can create a specific mood, add practicality, and boost the safety of your home.
"Your outdoor lighting plays a role in both the appearance and safety of your home," says Bobi Liinamaa, Store Manager of Diggs & Dwellings in Sudbury, Ontario. "The key is to find a balance between creating the right ambiance and functionality."
The right choice of lighting can transform your outdoor space into a welcoming area for guests or a safe pathway to your front door.
"There’s many different types of outdoor lighting fixtures to consider," says Liinamaa. "Wall sconces, hanging lights, post mount lights, pot lights, and landscape lighting each have their own unique benefits."
- Wall Sconces are perfect for flanking doorways and providing a decorative element.
- Hanging Lights add a stylish touch and are ideal for covered porches and patios.
- Post Mount Lights provide great lining driveways and walkways.
- Pot Lights aren’t just for indoors. They’re often used to highlight architectural features or garden elements.
- Landscape Lighting enhances the beauty of your garden, trees, and shrubs.
The type of outdoor lighting you need shouldn’t depend solely on what’s on sale. Colour or design can complement your home’s exterior and the environment – including whether the light will be in an enclosed area or open to the elements – should also be considered.
And that’s not all – The size and height of your outdoor lighting will depend on the size of your home and where the lights will be installed. Garage and front door lights should be proportionate to the space they illuminate. The centre of the light source can typically be 66 to 72 inches above the ground for optimal effect.
Patio lighting (think string lights, outdoor lamps, and lanterns) will enhance the usability and ambiance of your outdoor spaces. Drape string lights across pergolas or along fences to create a festive atmosphere – and outdoor lamps and lanterns add a cozy feel to make your patio an inviting place for gatherings.
"Adding the right type of lighting to your patio can really change the feel of the space," says Liinamaa. "String lights are popular for creating a warm, inviting space to settle, while outdoor lamps and lanterns can provide more focused lighting."
What About Safety?
Path and step lights give walkways and stairs clear visibility and reduce the risk of trips and falls, while motion sensor lights can be placed around entry points to deter intruders and provide convenient illumination when you need it.
Proper outdoor lighting is essential for both aesthetics and functionality. Carefully selecting the right fixtures based on mood, function, and environment can create a beautifully lit outdoor space that enhances your home’s appeal and adds an element of safety for your family.
Come into Diggs & Dwellings to see what’s in stock and speak with one of their friendly staff members.