Terri Ramsey Beavers Are you looking to add some extra luxury and sophistication to your yard? Outdoor lighting is the perfect way to do just that. Whether your goal is to create a relaxing ambiance, highlight your landscaping, or simply provide some safety and security, there are many ideas that can inspire you. Although it may seem expensive to decorate using lights, it’s actually not. Many lights produced today are energy-efficient, consume little power, and last a long time.
Outdoor lighting is a great way of making your yard appear luxurious without putting too much effort or investing a lot of money. For more resources, check out this post on 8 Reasons You Should Maintain Your Home’s Outdoor Lighting System.
Think of an Idea
Although decorating your yard using landscape lighting may seem straightforward, you’ll need to spend some time thinking about the kind of look you want to achieve before making a purchase. Ask yourself questions such as:
- What’s the main goal I’m trying to achieve?
- Where will I place each light, and what color should they be?
These two simple questions can help you figure out where to start. First, think of where you want the lights to be and what color suits you the best. Most people prefer subtle LEDs, but many also like colors to add life to the space.
Thinking about your goal is crucial because there are many different options.
Use Energy-efficient LEDs or Solar Lights
One great idea to create the perfect ambiance is to mix up different types. Did you know that nowadays, there are many energy-efficient options available? For example, many people use solar lights or LEDs (light-emitting diodes) for their outdoor lighting, saving money on electricity bills.
The solar landscape type makes it easy to add some extra light without decorating a yard full of outlets. These usually require direct sunlight, but their cost is minimal, and they can last up to eight hours after receiving a few hours of direct sunlight.
LEDs are the most energy-efficient option people choose when looking for outdoor lighting ideas. Many people choose them because they consume little power, especially compared to incandescent lighting, and can last for a long time. In addition, LED bulbs come in various colors, which is perfect for those who don’t want to use white only.
Figure Out the Power Source
The first thing you need to do is to think about power sources. There are three main options: solar-powered, hardwired landscape lighting, and plug-in lights powered by an outlet.
Solar outdoor ones are great because they don’t require much setup or materials. You can easily install these around by simply digging a hole and sticking them into the ground.
Another great option is hardwired landscape lighting powered by an electrical box buried underground. This option requires a professional electrician to install, but it lets you create the ambiance you want into different parts of your yard.
You can also use plug-in lights that are powered by an outlet. For this, you need to ensure you have enough outlets to power the decor you plan on installing.
Luxury Outdoor Lighting Ideas
Hang Twinkling Lights
One great way to add a luxurious touch is to use twinkling lights. These are made of tiny incandescent bulbs that often blink, which creates an interesting effect in the garden. Some people prefer clear outdoor lighting, but others like colorful twinkling lights that shine brightly into their yard, creating a unique atmosphere.
You can also use these around the patio or on top of a pavilion to create the perfect ambiance.
Use Lanterns
Another great option for adding luxury is to use lanterns. Lanterns come in many different shapes and sizes, so you can choose those that suit your garden best.
You can hang lanterns under the patio or around a gazebo, as well as on top of a tree. However, be careful around the trees to avoid any damage.
Light Up Your Concrete
If you have a concrete driveway or any similar area, consider using lighting to bring it to life. Concrete tends to absorb sunlight during the day and release it at night. This can be great if you have some plants that need lots of light in the evening hours, but otherwise, your concrete might look very dark when there is no sun.
Using pathway lights can help bring some life to your concrete. You can use low-voltage ones or simply stick solars into the ground to save up on electricity bills.
Add a Gas Fire Pit
One great idea to create the perfect ambiance is to add a fire pit. You can use a fire pit as a focal point of your outdoor space to sit around and enjoy its warmth and light. Gas fire pits are very safe because little gas is needed to create the fire, and unlike traditional wood fires, they don’t require any cleanup. Gas fire pits can be used for formal or casual dining spaces, depending on your needs.
Light Up the Paths
Another way to add luxury to your yard is to light up the pathways. This will create a safe and well-lit environment for you, your family, and your guests, making it easy to get around without worrying about tripping over anything.
Use several types to highlight the walkway borders and make your outdoor area feel magical at night.
Add a Large Chandelier
A large chandelier can be used as an eye-catching focal point that provides the perfect decor for your yard. A large chandelier will also work great in a backyard space where you want to create an elegant ambiance for dining or relaxing.