4 Ways To Add Lighting To Your Patio

Those warm summer nights are here and what better way to unwind after work than relaxing on the patio at night? One of the most affordable upgrades to your yard can be patio lighting. From something simple to string lights to the more complicated sconces, we have a design idea for your budget and know-how.

The experts at Landscape Lighting Ottawa would love to offer their expertise in creating an outdoor ambiance that will offer the versatility of a family space and intimate gathering with friends. Work with whatever features you have, or plan ahead to create or upgrade your patio into something you can really enjoy.

String Lights

It’s best to use lights designed for outdoor use, but if you’re having a special event why not dig out those white Christmas lights and string them around a tree, post, railing or inside a globe for a warm light for one night. You can purchase string lights in a variety of shapes, colours and lengths. Drape the lights over a patio table or sitting area to give the effect of an artificial ceiling of light. LED lights offer long life and versatility in colour. Incandescent lights offer the soft white glow that creates a perfect romantic ambiance.

The Catch: Unless you’re using solar lights, string lights need to reach an outdoor outlet.

Pendants

Hanging a pendant light or a collection of lights from trees can create an informal or bohemian style. These lights are simple to hang and take down – perfect for that special event. If your patio is covered by a pergola or other similar structure, this provides the perfect opportunity for an outdoor pendant light over a sitting area or table. Pendant lights can be only used at night, or choose a style with some flair and let it stand as a focal point of the patio area during the day as well.

The Catch: Most pendant lights will need to be taken inside for the winter, or taken down with each use if not rated for outdoor use.

Sconces

Whether mounted on a wall, post, or railing, sconces provide consistent lighting through every season. There are a wide variety of styles and shapes to fit every budget. Sconces can provide a soft glow, or shine more brightly for security lighting. If a historic or vintage look appeals to you, sconces may be the way to go.

The Catch: These will usually require a professional to install and are difficult to change out if you want a different look next summer.

Stair Riser Lights

More people trip and fall with small one and two step stair cases than the longer style. That first step is a killer! Be kind to your guests and install some kind of lighting for these small steps. Recessed lighting is popular. LED rope lights are effective used this way if an outlet is nearby. Landscape lighting can also be effective if the lights are placed in the adjacent flower bed so that light and not shadows are cast on the stairs.

Landscape Lighting Ottawa is here to answer your outdoor lighting questions or help you design a truly unique lighting plan for your home or business. Contact our outdoor lighting experts to learn more about our lighting services or view our gallery of one-of-a-kind designs.