With summer right around the corner, many of us are
preparing to spend time outdoors. This means making last-minute arrangements to
create a beautiful and cozy backyard oasis.
If you’re at that stage too, you might be wondering about
ways to make your backyard more inviting at nighttime. There’s something
magical about spending an evening on your patio, so you want to make it as cozy
as possible.
Thankfully, there are ways to create a warm ambiance in your
backyard with lighting. If you are interested in finding out how outdoor
lighting solutions can help you achieve that cozy nighttime ambiance, keep
reading.
Types of Outdoor Lighting for Your Backyard
The best way to create a warm and cozy nighttime ambiance in
your backyard is with outdoor lighting. The different types of lighting you
choose for your backyard space will help set the overall mood. So, you need to
choose carefully.
Some outdoor lighting options you have include overhead
lighting, string lights, lanterns, path lights, solar and LED lighting, accent
lighting, and candles and open flames.
Overhead lighting
Overhead lighting is a great option for backyards with
covered patios or pergolas. Pendant lights, chandeliers, and ceiling lights
when placed overhead will provide overall illumination and coziness to the
backyard.
Even if you don’t have a covered patio, you can place fun
glass chandeliers or pendants in trees for a bit of whimsy in your backyard. Of
course, ensure these overhead lighting options are waterproof and can stand up
to the weather.
String lights
Everyone knows that adding string or fairy lights is an
amazing way to add light and coziness to your backyard. The great thing about
these types of lights is that you can place them almost anywhere in your
backyard. You can string them overhead, wrap them around trees or railing
posts, and light up different areas of your garden.
They come in different shapes and sizes so you can mix them
to add more visual interest and create a cozy atmosphere. And the best part is
that they are waterproof, so you won’t need to worry about that.
Lanterns
Add some elegance to your patio with beautiful lanterns.
Most lanterns are made of metal and glass and their classic look can contribute
to a timeless ambiance in your backyard.
Lanterns are waterproof which means that you can place them
anywhere in your backyard. On steps, pathways, unlit corners, and tables. They
come in different sizes and styles, so you can mix them to add more interest.
Path and fence lights
Path and fence lights are crucial for illuminating and
navigating outdoor areas at night. These types of lights will help you avoid
tripping in the dark and they will also add to the ambiance of your backyard.
There are numerous modern solar fence lights and pathway lights to choose
from, so choose something that will complement the overall feel of your
backyard.
Accent lighting
Accent or landscape lighting is there to illuminate
architectural features, décor, plants, or different backyard features. With
this type of lighting, you can highlight the best parts of your backyard.
If you add the uplight lights under your plants or trees they
will illuminate foliage and add a touch of magic to your backyard. With accent
lighting, you can light up water features, decks, the façade of your house, and
so much more.
Candles and open flames
If you’re a fan of romantic backyard nights, consider adding
candles and open flames such as fire pits, tabletop fireplaces, tiki torches,
and other similar solutions.
However, when opting for this sort of living make sure your
candles and open flames are contained and enclosed safely.
How to choose the right lighting for your backyard
With so many lighting options it can be tough to choose the
right option for your backyard. But worry not because there is a
solution.
If you can’t decide which lighting to choose for your
backyard, consider the size of your space, placement of fixtures, intended use,
and the aesthetic you’re going for.
What do you need the lighting for?
How are you going to use your patio at nighttime? Answering
this question will help you narrow down your options. If you intend to use the
space for lounging, string lights, accent lights, and lanterns will do just
fine.
In case, the space is intended for dining, overhead light
that will illuminate the table, plus accent lights around it are your best
option.
Mind the placement
When choosing lighting options, make sure you consider their
placement. For instance, overhead lights are there to provide overall
illumination. Spotlights are ideal for highlighting architectural features.
Low-level lights are there to provide safety along pathways. Also, make sure
you place the string lights so that you avoid that tangled look.
Focus on ambiance
The mood and atmosphere you want to create in your backyard
will also help you choose the outdoor lighting. If you’re going for timeless
and elegant, lanterns are your best bet. Candles and open flames will give you
that romantic feeling you’re going for. For a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere,
string lights will do just fine.
Consider your style
Don’t forget to consider your style when choosing backyard
lighting. Make sure the lighting you choose complements the existing style you
already have on your patio.
If you have modern furniture, modern lighting fixtures, and
options logically make more sense.
If you have a traditional-style patio, elegant lanterns, and
overhead lighting can look nice and timeless.
Don’t be afraid to mix up fixture types
To add character and dimension to your backyard, don’t be
afraid to mix up fixture types. You can light up your paths and fences with
solar lights and have accent lights in your landscape. When layering lighting
just be careful not to overdo it.
Choose smart lighting options
Nowadays, most lighting is smart. That means that you can buy
lighting that has times, dimmers, motion sensors, and remote control options.
All of these options make outdoor lighting easy and convenient to use.
Conclusion
Backyard lighting is a great way to bring your outdoor space
to life when the sun goes down. Not only that, outdoor lighting provides
security and safety, adds visual appeal, and enhances the ambiance of your
backyard. Now that you know your options, which lighting options will you
choose for your backyard?
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