Each outdoor area can have its own style. Some houses have large gardens, and then there is apartment living and office space that may have a small courtyard. You will also need to consider where you live, the climate and the space. With so many different lighting options, plants, outdoor furniture and choices, it can be hard to know where to start. Perhaps a good place to start is to break it down in to sections, and really think about the areas you are looking at in terms of budget, usage and size.
Balcony
Just because you do not have a traditional garden space, does not mean that you cannot have a gorgeous outdoor area. If you live in a flat or small town house and you have a balcony or courtyard, then you can use lighting to make the area bigger, brighter and more inviting. Take a look at the area and think about what you can do with it. Plants, flowers, hanging baskets and herb gardens can all be used in small areas.
Take some measurements of the areas, corners and any railings on the balcony, then find some plants or furniture to fit. You might have colours in mind or styles, look for lighting that can be compact and cost effective. If you have the right walls and space, then outdoor wall lighting can help put a spark into the area.
Family Area
The family area may be somewhere fun, sophisticated or old-fashioned style. Focus on what you want to use the area for, what time of day you are most likely to use it, if there will be lots of people or just a few. This is all important before you buy furniture or make any drastic changes. If it is a large area, you may be considering outdoor flood lighting. It is a very effective way to light a big space. Usually this area will need to be durable and easy to use it may be the area that gets used the most.
Kids play area
The kids will want to play and enjoy their time in an area that suits their activities. There may be dress ups, colouring, drawing, building things, videos and reading, all in the same area. Consider what sort of lighting you need in that area and if you need lighting at all, especially if the area is usually being used during the day. Most area, despite being used in the day time will need some sort of lighting, and you may want special features such as dimmer switches or spot lights. Safety is obviously an important factor when it comes to planning the kids area. Ensure a qualified electrician fits all the lights and that no loose wires are present.
Grown up seating
Ah the grownups. A nice area to sit and relax, entertain or just spend family time is essential. Same deal as all the other areas really, consider what the area will be used for and perhaps try to vary the style from other parts of the house or outdoor areas. You can find very sophisticated lights to set the mood and distinguish it from the kids area or general space. And the adults deserve as much luxury as you like, no need to let the kids have all the fun. Furniture, plants and flowers are all considerations in this area.
Any outdoor setting, no matter how large or small, benefits from proper lighting. In fact, the perfectly placed outdoor wall lighting can transform the darkest of settings. Modern lighting can lift a drab and small outdoor area, while large areas can go to town with all the modern lighting options out in the market place. Outdoor flood lights are one popular option, as is outdoor wall lighting. These variations allow you to set the tone and mood for the right area.
Whether you choose simple lighting, flood lights, outdoor wall lighting or lamps, your outdoor areas are yours to create the perfect setting. Some people like the modern lighting ranges, while others will be attracted to more old fashioned options. Either way, pick something that you like, that will last, and that makes you happy in your outdoor space
Iain Jenkins writes articles for Luma Lighting, an on-line supplier of indoor and outdoor wall lighting. The site features a wide range of outdoor modern lighting, from driveway marker lights to a range of PIR activated outdoor flood lights, suitable for garden security.
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