How To Choose the Best Outdoor Lighting, According to Pros

Summer is just around the corner and many people are eager to
finally make use of their outdoor spaces. It’s easy enough to throw together some patio furniture and call it day. But, when night falls, you might still want to chill outside or throw a starlit get-together — which is when lighting really makes a difference.,Of course, everyone has different types of spaces and needs, whether working with a tiny balcony or sprawling yard. So, how do you choose the best lighting for your outdoor area? We spoke to lighting experts and landscape designers to get the answers. They shared their top tips on how to illuminate your space — from picking out fixtures to setting a cozy vibe.,Meanwhile, for bigger backyards, you’ll want to layer the lighting. “This means adding different types of lighting to create a visually interesting environment,” says Whitehead. “Decorative lanterns and hanging fixtures mounted in gazebos or even from tree branches add a visual sparkle to the garden. Directional accent lights, pointed up towards trees, can add a sense of verticality.” Whitehead notes that you can use a solar-powered system so that no wiring is required, which works especially well if you are renting.,The temperature of your lighting is key to creating the right ambience, says Orsman. “2400 to 2700 Kelvin would be the choice. In more layman’s terms, warm white,” he elaborates. “But for my biggest suggestion, test the lighting before you buy it, if that’s at all possible.” The vibe you should aim for? “Warm and yummy!”,But avoid over-lighting. Don’t go overboard with sources. “Darkness and quietness between illuminated moments creates a story,” says Orsman.