We talked about how landscape lighting improves security in a previous post, creating a safer atmosphere for your family and friends. But have you considered how well placed landscape lighting can also extend your time outside, providing greater relaxation and more opportunities for fun in your own backyard?

Just compare an unlit outdoor living space with a well-lit yard to get a feel for what you're missing.

Summer Fun in a Standard Yard

Standard suburban yards welcome you outside during the day, with plenty of space to play, garden and tinker or simply sit back and relax. These areas often grow dark after sunset, creating falling hazards and forcing your family indoors despite lovely weather and the perfect atmosphere.

A few well placed landscape lights or lighting systems would extend your family's time outside, allowing you to enjoy lazy summer evenings and star gaze long into the night.

Lighting Features for Around-the-Clock Fun

Think about where you spend time in the yard. Do your friends congregate around the patio table, sitting on the deck with drinks and snacks at hand? Or would you rather stroll through the garden, catching a glimpse of evening blooms? Place landscape lighting fixtures in places where you love to hang out, and remember to enhance safety by lighting up the pathway between your favorite spots and the entranceway.

Solar fixtures perform well in the garden, providing soft light all evening long without boosting your electricity bill. Low voltage lanterns can be hung from the wall or mounted on tall poles for overhead lighting, while LED deck lights fit unobtrusively in deck stairs and railing posts.

Look for natural ways to boost your landscape lighting plan with a backyard fireplace, candles and traditional lawn torches. These add a festive flavor to your yard, although your permanent light fixtures will provide dependable illumination in any weather at the flick of a switch.

Extend your time outside with quality landscape lighting features in the garden, on the patio and in the yard. Talk to your landscaping professional today about popular fixtures and functional designs that suit your budget and tastes.