Let lighting be the star

By Dani Sheehan. 

As we enter another summer of backyard cookouts and starlit evenings, let your lighting designs bring both form and function to every outdoor space. 

Across every neighborhood, the outdoor entertaining scene heats up with the heat of the summer, and the right lighting can take it well into the night. While your customers may initially focus on furniture or plantings when creating their ideal outdoor space, professional lighting design transforms a backyard into a true living environment. Helping your customers understand the value of lighting as both a functional and aesthetic tool can take your work to the next level. 

Start with the mood, then layer the light 

In a recent blog article from Kichler Lighting LLC, a summer-ready veranda was brought to life not just through wicker seating and tropical ceiling fans, but through carefully selected lighting choices that created distinct zones. The lounge area remained soft and breezy, while pendant lights over an outdoor kitchen provided bright task lighting for dinner prep. String lights draped overhead encouraged guests to linger long after sunset. 

This thoughtful approach of layering light based on purpose creates intention. Consider these strategies: 

• Ambient lighting: Creates an overall mood and makes a space feel warm and inviting. Use string lights, lanterns and concealed LEDs in seating areas. 
• Task lighting: Support activities like cooking, dining or reading. Pendant lights, under-counter LEDs or directional spotlights are ideal. 
• Accent lighting: Highlights architectural details, water features or landscape elements. Think uplighting on a tree canopy or a wall wash to draw the eye. 

Lighting extends use 

Adding lighting to outdoor spaces adds value for the customer. When done well, lighting: 

• Extends usability: Homeowners can cook, dine and relax outdoors later into the evening. 
• Improves safety: Path lights and stair illumination prevent accidents. 
• Elevates aesthetics: From rustic-chic pendant fixtures to modern minimalist sconces, lighting contributes directly to the overall design language. 
• Enhances entertaining: Whether it’s a Bluetooth lantern doubling as a speaker or strategically placed string lights setting the vibe, lighting becomes part of the experience. 

Lead your customers through a lighting strategy that blends ambiance, safety and style. Find more inspiration by exploring Kichler’s outdoor lighting ideas and products.

Original image source: Kichler Lighting LLC