LIGHTEN UP

A disappear beautiful yard doesn’t need to just because the sun has.

For many, the back yard is an extension of their entertainment area – a green oasis that envelops decking or a rear patio.

Savvy homeowners appreciate quality lighting can greatly enhance the area and know a few strategically placed lights can add a real ‘wow factor’ to that next outdoor gathering.

Here are some helpful hints to ensure your lighting proves a spark of genius instead of a short circuit.

Keep it subtle:

A few scattered lights look great, so a lot should look even better – right? Wrong. You don’t want your yard lit up like a shopping centre car park. Any peaceful ambiance will be lost instantly, and your neighbours will be cursing your ignorance instead of singing your praises.

Be strategic with placement – frugally frame a pathway, softly illuminate just one established tree and turn it into an understated centrepiece or backlight a water feature to show off its design. You CAN have too much of a good thing, so don’t overdo it.

Safety first:

Let’s not forget, unless you go solar, you’re still dealing with a power source here – and electricity and the great outdoors don’t play well together (especially when the rain comes). Weathered power leads or exposed transformers are a recipe for disaster, so plan how you want your yard to look and see what can be sealed and hidden underground. A quick word to your electrician will establish the safest (and most cost-effective) way to create your masterpiece.

Think of the environment:

You don’t leave your household lights on 24/7, so it’s a good idea not to do it in your back yard either.

Even energy efficient LEDs still use power, so think carefully about where your lighting will go and how often you intend to use it.