Are you wondering whether landscape lighting adds value to your home? If so, the answer to your question is a big YES! Installing landscape lighting is a great way to refresh your outdoor living area. The right lighting can improve the safety of your home and illuminate pathways, reducing the risk of slips, trips and falls. You can use strategically placed lights to highlight architectural features.
Landscape lights can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. In a survey conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, almost 90% of homebuyers found outdoor lighting one of the most desirable exterior features of a home. A study by Zillow found that homeowners who include the words ‘outdoor lighting’ in the listing description of their home for sale are able to sell their property faster and at an almost 2% higher resale value.
Low voltage LED based lighting has become a standard amenity to designing and installing landscapes adding another dimension into the enjoyment of outdoor spaces around homes.
Here are some landscape lighting tips for Sonoma County homeowners.
Use Adjustable Fixtures
Adjustable fixtures can be moved from one place to another. Some adjustable lighting fixtures allow you to customize color temperature. Before choosing fixtures, you will want to take measurements of the spaces you plan to install them in, so you don’t end up buying too large or small fixtures. If you want to illuminate several spots in your landscape, look for fixtures that allow you to adjust the amount of light that falls over an area. Use these fixtures to cast a shadow or create a soft beam.
Invest in High-quality Lighting
The benefits of high-quality lights exceed their cost as they last longer and are more reliable. Look for waterproof lights ideal for outdoor use. To be considered weatherproof, a light bulb should be rated between IP44 and IP65. Periodically clean your lights and inspect them to make sure they’re working properly. Consider cost-effective solar lights that require minimal to no maintenance and last years.
Today’s lighting systems offer versatility, flexibility, low energy use, with countless fixture designs. Power sources can be switched, programmed, accessed via the internet and through apps. A landscape lighting specialist can explain options and even set up demonstrations.
Opt For Lighting That Matches Your Home Décor
To achieve a cohesive look, use lights that blend in seamlessly with the décor of your home. When choosing landscape lighting, consider the foliage color and the type of trees in your landscape. Decide the natural shapes and forms you want to highlight. Study the topography of your landscape. If it is curved or arched, consider lights that curve downward or upward. If you want to create a dramatic effect, look for fixtures that create shadows. Consider flood lights for large spaces in your landscape.
In general, the thought should be to see the light, not the light fixture.
Set the Mood with Mood Lighting
If you entertain your guests outdoors, consider soft, ambient lighting for your landscape. Install outdoor lanterns or string lights in your bonfire area to create a soft glow. Use layered accent lighting around your plants and rocks. You can also use lights to highlight natural shapes. If you have a water feature, strategically placed lights can help enhance the natural flow of water.
Gardenworks is a leading Sonoma County landscape design service. Our landscaping experts possess specialized knowledge that enables them to design aesthetically appealing and functional landscapes. To learn more, call (707) 857-2050.