Choosing the right outdoor lighting will help you get the most out of your patio this Spring, turning it from just another outdoor area into a space where friends and family can find companionship and entertainment late into the evening. Here are four main areas to consider if you’re looking at upgrading your patio lighting in preparation for the warmer spring weather ahead.

Image via: Brian Lincoln

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1. Plan It Out First

Your first consideration should be how you are actually planning to use your patio area. If you intend to do certain tasks on it, such as preparing food and drink, or just relaxing with a book, you’ll need to know what type of lighting is most suitable in order to prevent eyestrain, create the right ambience, and keep the area safe for both children and grownups.

2. Pick Your Locations

If you’re using the patio for a specific task that requires good lighting and attention to detail, such cooking on a barbeque, spotlights and floodlights oriented toward your work area are usually the best solution. If you’re simply reading a magazine or novel, placing a lamp on a table beside your chair usually works best.

3. Choose The Right Types Of Lighting

If the patio is to be used as an entertainment area and for socializing, you probably want to steer clear of bright spots and use ambient lighting instead. There are a plethora of choices available, depending on the mood you would like to create.

Strings of LED lights, also known as fairy lights, threaded around the patio can create a pleasant atmosphere, and are easy to install as well as being cost-effective. Hanging lanterns can give your patio an exotic appearance and are great for special events such as birthdays or if you’re hosting a Spring Break party.

Image via: Peg Berens Interior Design LLC

If you’re simply looking for a warm and gentle effect, an outdoor fireplace or patio torches can be good choices. The soft, low lighting they provide helps to create a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. And don’t forget that candles work well too – just make sure they’re away from where they might get knocked over.

4. Safety comes first

As well as their aesthetic appeal, patio lights should also be chosen with safety and security in mind. If your patio has steps leading up to it, they should always be lit at night, or at the very least, the light switch easily accessible. A sensor light may be a good option in such cases, and it will also help alert you to intruders. Ground lights, whether battery operated, connected to mains power or even solar, can be good for marking the perimeter of the patio and illuminating garden paths.

Last but not least, make sure you hire an electrician if there’s going to be a lot of wiring involved. Follow these tips, and your Spring is sure to be one you’ll remember for all the right reasons!

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