The arrival of fall means shorter days and longer nights are right around the corner. Keeping your house well-lit is something to consider for your fall outdoor landscape, especially if you are expecting to host guests for the holidays. Here are some hardware and design ideas for fall outdoor lighting.
All Natural
One of the best design tips for outdoor lighting is keeping it natural. You want your lighting techniques to highlight the uniqueness of nature. Instead of going for a uniform look, mix and match lighting hardware materials, finishes and styles. Mixing finishes is an easy way to add diversity to your landscape lighting. Mixing black and brass metals delivers a warm tone while a mix of chrome and nickel is on the cooler side.
When mixing styles it’s best practice to stick to just two. A rustic style mixed with a hint of industrial style (pictured above in fixtures from Kichler) is a great example of this technique. The light on the left is an industrial style sconce and can be used to flank a door that leads to your outdoor space. It pairs nicely with the rustic style chandelier on the right that could hang over an outdoor dining table under a pergola or pavilion. You can also mix different textures like shiny versus matte.
Protect Your Fall Outdoor Lighting
It’s important to know the limitations of any kind of outdoor decor or furniture. Not all outdoor lights are weather or waterproof. Most outdoor lighting will be rated as either damp or wet. Damp outdoor lighting is not meant to be directly exposed to the elements. It should be placed under some kind of covering whether it’s an awning, roof, umbrella, etc. Wet rated fixtures can be directly exposed to rain and snow.
Although lots of outdoor light fixtures can be used indoors as well, landscape/hardscape lighting like path lighting are not meant for indoor use.
Use Fall Outdoor Lighting to Protect You
Lights can assist with security and safety by alerting potential criminals that the house isn’t empty and that they will be seen, lighting the way for emergency vehicles to find your home, brightening up steps or other possible tripping hazards, etc. Some areas where you might consider implementing outdoor lighting for dark evenings include steps, pathways, decks and entrances.
Implement Outdoor Lighting With Seiler’s Landscaping
Seiler's is happy to work with you to design an outdoor lighting plan that will play up all your outdoor amenities like plantings, outdoor living spaces, decks and patios and entry doors. Contact us today to discuss your lighting project.