Is outdoor lighting a good investment? At Luminocity, we often hear this question from potential customers who talk to us about bringing light to their central Indiana homes and property. Sure, a good outdoor lighting system can beautify your home and set it apart from others, but in today’s economy, everyone wants to make sure they’re getting a good return on their investment.

In our more than 15 years of experience and extensive research, we believe the answer is a resounding yes. In addition to its beauty, outdoor lighting can pay you back in terms of safety and home value. Let’s look at what a quality outdoor lighting system can do for you.

A savvy investment: Enhanced safety and security

Let’s face it. Lights turn off criminals. Common sense says a dark home is much more inviting to a thief than a well-lit one, and studies confirm it. According to a study conducted in New York City, outdoor lighting was correlated to a 39% decrease in crime at night for nearly 80 public housing developments.

But lighting security also extends to the people who live in and visit your home. Well-placed outdoor lights illuminate pathways, stairs, and driveways, significantly reducing the risk of trips and falls in the dark. Did you know that falling is one of the most common forms of injury at home? More than 38,000 deaths were attributed to falls by people ages 65 and older in a recent study. However, most central Indiana homeowners don’t want to be blinded by spotlights as they approach their front doors, either. That’s why Luminocity has invested in proper education and certification to understand how to use light judiciously and create enhanced safety that doesn’t compromise your home’s beauty.

A financial investment: Increased curb appeal and property value

Outdoor lighting can dramatically enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, highlighting architectural features, landscaping, and garden beds. This improved curb appeal creates a more welcoming ambiance for guests and can significantly increase your property’s perceived value. When you look at the various home projects that add value to your home, outdoor lighting makes the list. According to Zillow, homes that include outdoor lighting in their descriptions sell 3.1 days faster than similar home. They also see a 1.6% increase in their sales price.

A lifestyle investment: Extended enjoyment of outdoor living spaces

Summer is almost here, and Indiana homeowners are ready for open-air evening dining and late-night pool parties. Outdoor lighting transforms your patios, decks, and seating areas into usable spaces long after sunset. This allows you to enjoy outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply relaxing in your backyard for more hours of the day, effectively extending your living space.

Aesthetic investment: Focal points and architectural details

Strategic placement of outdoor lights can draw attention to your property’s unique features, such as a beautiful tree, a water feature, or interesting architectural elements. Uplighting, spotlights, and path lights can add depth and drama to your landscape, creating a captivating nighttime ambiance. We find that accent lights will draw the eye to a specific area or focal point, like a water feature or unique landscaped area. When you work with a professional lighting designer like Luminocity, you’re also purchasing expertise that comes from years of experience and training. We approach every property as an individual palette, ready to be transformed by intentional and creative lighting.

Environmental investment: Energy efficiency and cost savings

Modern outdoor lighting, especially LED options, is highly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less electricity than traditional bulbs. LEDs also have a much longer lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering maintenance costs. While the initial investment in LED fixtures might be slightly higher, the long-term energy savings and reduced upkeep offer a significant return on investment.

If you’re looking to enhance your home and receive a generous return on your investment, reach out to Luminocity now. The Luminocity difference means you’ll be collaborating with a firm that does nothing but outdoor lighting. We focus on one thing, and we put all our energy into doing it right. Call Luminocity now for a free consultation: 317-537-8055.

Winter is over for central Indiana – at least according to the calendar. Homeowners are starting to notice a little more green outdoors, as their yards take on their springtime hue and the perennials start to wake up from their winter naps. How can you prepare your home for spring? Luminocity has some tips for kicking off the new season with a spring cleaning and upgrade. This is Indiana, after all. The temperature is going to turn quickly, and you’ll want to be outside soaking it up throughout the next several months.

Spring clean your yard

We may have escaped the snowstorm locomotive that can barrel through the Midwest, but we still had our share of inclement weather leaving its calling card of yard debris, dead leaves, cobwebs and bare spots. Haul out the rake and collect the leaves and debris that threaten to interfere with the spring growing cycle. Take a good look at your landscape plants. Do they need pruning? Remove the dead or diseased branches, so the new foliage has a place to grow.

Make sure your grass is ready for the spring growing season. Consider renting an aerator to encourage better root growth. Add fertilizer and seed as necessary.

Spring Clean your home exterior

Winter’s dirt and grime can accumulate gradually, to the point where you don’t even realize how dingy your home looks from the street. Use a power washer to remove the caked-on crud. Start the spring with a set of sparkling windows while you’re at it. Tip: A squeegee helps.

Clear the roof and gutters

We’re moving into the rainy season, and you’ll want your gutters ready to handle the spring deluge. Pull out the ladder so you can see what’s accumulated in your gutters over the winter. Clean out the downspouts and make sure the water is flowing into your yard and not against your home’s foundation. Check for any loose or damaged shingles while you’re on the roof. If you’re not comfortable with high spaces, consider hiring out this task.

Take stock of your outdoor recreational spaces

As soon as the temperature rises above 60 degrees, you’re going to want to be spending time on your patio. Sweep the deck with a broom and follow up with the garden hose or a pressure washer to remove the dirt and other debris. (Keep the power washer away from stained wood. It’s best for hard surfaces like concrete, brick or stone.) Pull out your patio furniture and check the cushions and pillows for any holes or other wear and tear. Consider investing in some new pieces, like a colorful outdoor rug or a comfortable lounge chair.

Add new plants and flowers for spring

Are you still looking at the same plants you inherited when you bought your house 10 years ago? Landscape plants have varying lifespans, and an overgrown plant may overshadow the smaller plants that add color and texture to your yard. Consider replacing some of the older plants, especially if they’re blocking the walkway and entrance to your home. If you lack a green thumb, ask for suggestions at your nearest garden center or nursery.

Schedule an outdoor lighting maintenance visit from Luminocity

A lot can happen to your outdoor lighting system over the winter months. The ground can shift. Growing foliage can obstruct the lights. Wires can become exposed. Luminocity’s maintenance plan takes care of all of this by keeping systems at peak operating efficiency. When you enroll in the maintenance plan, you’re getting periodic cleaning and inspection of each fixture. We’ll bury the exposed wire, trim back overgrown foliage, and replace your burnt-out bulbs with new ones. Some customers opt for annual inspections, but many will request two or more each year. Fortunately, the maintenance plan can be tailored to your lighting system’s specific needs.

Add new outdoor lighting by Luminocity

With so much newness around you, is it time for an outdoor lighting renewal? Luminocity’s trained lighting professionals will determine where your home needs a little extra illumination, and where the shadows work to create interest and variety. As a member of the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals, the Luminocity staff is constantly updated their skills and knowledge base to ensure our client’s home shines in a tastefully designed lighting environment.

Spring is time for renewal. If you’re ready for a new or updated lighting design, reach out to Luminocity now at 317-537-8055. Trust Luminocity for all of your home lighting needs this spring and beyond.

Color trend: Warm shades take over

Maybe it’s the hint of summer that teases us in the spring, but we’re ready for warmth. Homeowners are taking the cue and choosing hues that add a deep, comfortable feel to the landscape. Think earthy sage green, soft oranges, or rich charcoal gray. Is black still the fashionable color for home? Perhaps. But we’re also hearing about darker brown for those who are looking for something bold and dramatic. If you’re not a risk taker – and there’s no shame in playing it safe – warm whites and neutrals can still create a cozy and inviting exterior.

Hardware trend: Aesthetics and sustainability

Exterior hardware is emerging as a popular way to personalize your home exterior and add a layer of boldness to the design. We’re looking at bold color accents in black, deep greens and rich browns to create a striking contrast to the home’s presentation. Warm metallic finishes like matte brass can give your home timeless beauty as the finishes develop their natural patina over time. We’re also seeing homeowners moving towards sustainable materials like stainless steel and recycled materials.

Material trend: Mixed textures

Different exterior materials give homes an updated, modern look, and this trend isn’t going away anytime soon. Stone skirting can be paired with vertical wood siding. Stone siding creates an earthy feel, while sleek metal brings an updated touch to the overall exterior. Mixed masonry combines brick and stone and creates and aesthetically pleasing contrast. Paint them in similar hues, and you create a subtle but dramatic statement.

Fun trend: Backyard spaces

Five years after the Covid epidemic sent everyone inside, homeowners are back to gathering with their friends and enjoying time together. Sure, we’re still seeing the ponds, water fixtures and pools. But expect homeowners to recreate their indoor ambiance outdoors, with extensive outdoor kitchens and functional furniture that can withstand the elements without losing their beauty and sophistication.  Indiana’s pervasive basketball hoops are being joined by backyard pickleball courts and putting greens. As far as pools go, the cold plunge feature isn’t going anywhere. These icy escapes are showing up more and more as people seek their restorative properties.

Tiptop trend: Going up to the roof

Is anyone old enough to remember when the biggest roofing decision was choosing between three shingle colors? Today’s roofing materials incorporate energy-efficiency and sustainability with elegant architectural features to top homes with a distinctive feature. Metal roofs, which can be an upfront expense, are paying homeowners back in longevity. What about green roofs? No, we’re not talking about the forest shades from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Instead, homeowners are seeking roofs made of recycled materials or solar reflective shingles.

Shining a light on Indiana’s finest homes

Here at Luminocity, we continue to work on some of central Indiana’s most beautiful homes, creating a lighting design that highlights their beauty and takes advantage of the latest lighting technology. Outdoor living spaces become evening gathering spots with functional lighting that does more than flood the area with light. A home’s entryway can be warm and inviting without compromising the privacy of the people who live inside.  Specific architectural details become captivating nighttime spectacles with the right lighting design and placement.

Luminocity understands the importance of incorporating the latest home design trends without sacrificing a home’s beauty and elegance. Our trained lighting designers have invested years understanding what makes light work – and what can go wrong – when you add an outdoor lighting design to your home. Don’t make the mistake of letting a mediocre lighting design ruin your carefully planned home exterior. Trust your home to the lighting experts at Luminocity. Call us now at 317-537-8055 for a consultation, and let’s talk about putting your home in a new light in 2025.

1. How do LEDS generate light?

A. LEDs generate light through a process of intense friction, causing the material to heat up and glow.

B. LEDs generate light through electroluminescence, where electrons recombine with holes in a semiconductor material, releasing energy in the form of photons.  

C. LEDs use small, internal mirrors to reflect and amplify ambient light, creating a brighter glow.

D. LEDs contain tiny, pressurized gas chambers that emit light when electricity passes through them.

Answer: B. LEDs convert electrical energy directly into light energy through the interaction of electrons and holes within a semiconductor material.

2. What is the most energy-efficient type of lighting?            

A. Incandescent bulbs are the most energy-efficient because they produce the most light.

B. Halogen bulbs are more energy-efficient because they are brighter than LEDs.

C. LED lighting is generally considered the most energy-efficient type, often lasting 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs.

D. Florescent bulbs, the first energy-saving bulbs, remain the most energy efficient.

Answer: C. LEDs lead the way in energy efficiency, longevity, durability and versatility.

3. How is lightbulb brightness measured?

A. Lightbulb brightness is measured in lumens.

B. Brightness is measured by the weight of the filament.

C. Brightness is measured by the volume of light produced.

D. Brightness is measured by the amount of electricity it consumes.

Answer: A. Many people think that lightbulb brightness is measured in watts. So, a 60-watt bulb will be brighter than a 40-watt bulb, right? Not really. A watt is a measurement of how much energy is being used. A lumen, on the other hand, measures how much light comes from the bulb.

4. What is the name of the phenomenon where light is redirected by a surface?

A. Diffraction.

B. Refraction.

C. Absorption

D. Reflection

Answer: D. Reflection is the phenomenon where light is redirected by a surface. The talented lighting designers at Luminocity will use reflection judiciously during installation, to create light and shadow the emphasizes your home’s unique beauty.

5. What does illumination refer to?

A. The amount of light emitted by a source in a specific direction.

B. The amount of light falling on a surface.

C. The color appearance of a light source.

D. The intensity of the light source.

Answer: A. Illumination in lighting refers to the amount of light falling on a surface. It’s a measure of how much luminous flux (the total amount of light emitted by a source) is spread over a given area. Proper illumination is crucial for visibility, aesthetics, energy efficiency and safety.

6. What is the name of the phenomenon where light waves interfere with each other?

A. Refraction

B. Diffraction

C. Reflection

D. Absorption

Answer: B. Diffraction refers to the bending or spreading of waves as they encounter an obstacle or pass through an opening.

7. Who invented the incandescent light bulb?

A. Thomas Edison

B. Nikola Tesla

C. Benjamin Franklin

D. Albert Einstein

Answer: A. While others contributed to the development of the light bulb, Thomas Edison is widely credited with inventing the commercially viable incandescent light bulb.

8. What is the name of the phenomenon where an object appears to be a different color when viewed under different light sources?

A. Color rendering

B. Color temperature

C. Color shift

D. Color distortion

Answer: C. Color shift describes how the perceived color of an object can change depending on the color temperature and spectrum of the light source.

9. What is the best way to prevent glare from outdoor lighting?

A. Use dimmer bulbs.

B. Direct the light downward.

C. Install lights closer to the ground.

D. Use multiple lights

Answer: B. Shielding fixtures and directing light downwards towards the intended area minimize glare and reduce light trespass onto neighboring properties.

10. Who should you rely on for the best outdoor lighting?

A. You can handle it yourself with a few Youtube videos and some lighting from the internet.

B. Your local neighborhood handyman can install outdoor lighting.

C. Your landscape company will handle the lighting design.

D. A certified lighting designer like Luminocity.

Answer: D. Put your home in its best light with a custom outdoor lighting design by Luminocity. Luminocity is home to two of only five Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technicians (CLVLT) in Indiana, as well as the only Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD.) Luminocity treats lighting like the science it is, using only high-quality lighting fixtures and offering custom maintenance. You wouldn’t take your car to a bicycle mechanic, would you? Trust your home to the people who are solely dedicated to outdoor landscape lighting.

Are you ready to explore ways to highlight your home and increase its value? Reach out to Luminocity at 317-537-8055 for a consultation.

Looking to spend more time outside, even as the temperatures start to fall the coming months? We have some tips for keeping the lights on outdoors for your big parties and cozy gatherings.

Understanding the ambiance of outdoor entertaining

When considering outdoor lighting for entertaining, it’s essential to think about the ambiance you want to create. Lighting sets the mood and can influence the atmosphere of your gathering. Soft, warm lighting tends to create a cozy and intimate feel, perfect for dinner parties or relaxed gatherings. On the other hand, brighter and more focused lighting might be preferable for activities like games or larger gatherings where visibility is key.

Types of outdoor lighting for entertaining

There are several types of outdoor lighting to consider, each serving different purposes:

Pathway lighting: Path lights not only add a decorative touch but also ensure safety by illuminating walkways, steps, and driveways.

String lights: Perhaps the most popular choice for outdoor entertaining, string lights create a charming and whimsical atmosphere. They can be draped along fences, strung overhead across a patio, or wrapped around tree trunks. LED string lights are energy-efficient and come in various shapes and colors to suit different styles.

Spotlights and uplighting: These are ideal for highlighting focal points in your outdoor space, such as architectural features, plants, or artwork. Uplighting and downlighting can create dramatic effects and draw attention to specific areas.

Lanterns and candlelight: For a more rustic or traditional look, lanterns and candles provide soft, flickering light that adds warmth and charm to outdoor tables and seating areas. Flameless candles or solar-powered lanterns offer a safer and more convenient alternative.

Practical considerations

In addition to aesthetics, there are practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing outdoor lighting:

Weather resistance: Outdoor lighting fixtures should be weatherproof to withstand rain, wind, and other outdoor elements. Look for fixtures with an IP rating that indicates their level of waterproofing and durability.

Energy efficiency: Opt for LED lights wherever possible, as they are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. (Of course, if you like calling on Luminocity frequently because you have burned out incandescent bulbs, you are welcome to remain in the old school group.)

4 design tips for outdoor lighting

To achieve the best results with outdoor lighting for entertaining, consider working with a Luminocity certified lighting designer who can identify key focal points of your home and property and light them accordingly.

Layered lighting: Combine different types of lighting to create depth and interest. For example, pair string lights with pathway lights and spotlights to illuminate various areas of your outdoor space.

Create zones: Define different zones within your outdoor area, such as dining, lounging, and cooking areas, and use lighting to delineate each space effectively.

Avoid glare: Position lights strategically to minimize glare and ensure comfortable visibility without harsh shadows.

Experiment and personalize: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lighting arrangements and styles to find what works best for your space and personal taste.

Maintenance and safety

Regular maintenance of outdoor lighting is essential to ensure optimal performance and safety. Clean fixtures regularly to remove dirt and debris, replace bulbs as needed, and check wiring for any signs of wear or damage. Or, leave the messy chores to the staff at Luminocity. Our maintenance plan helps you keep your system operating at peak efficiency month-after-month. The plan includes a thorough cleaning and inspection, as well as fresh bulbs for your quartz-halogen system.

A thoughtful outdoor lighting designs opens up opportunities to stay outdoors even as the days grow shorter. If you’re ready to explore outdoor lighting—or you’re ready to update your existing outdoor lighting design, reach out to Luminocity now for a consultation. Or, call us at 317-537-8055.

As summer stretches its warm arms over central Indiana, our outdoor spaces have become an extension of our homes. Long evenings spent grilling, entertaining friends, or simply relaxing under the stars all benefit from a well-maintained outdoor lighting system by Luminocity. But with extended use comes the need for proper care. We’ve assembled some important tips to keep your outdoor lighting shining brightly throughout the summer:

Safety first this summer

Make sure your lights are off before you take a close look at your entire outdoor lighting system. Check for cracked bulbs, loose wiring, or any signs of water damage. Pay close attention to areas where fixtures meet the ground or where cords might be exposed to lawnmowers or weed whackers.

Know your limits: If you notice any frayed wires, exposed components, or flickering lights, don’t attempt repairs yourself. Call Luminocity to address any electrical concerns.

Weather resistance is key: Ensure all your outdoor lighting fixtures are rated for outdoor use. Look for the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) listing on the fixture itself. This indicates it’s been tested and approved for safe exposure to the elements. Luminocity primarily relies on fixtures by Sterling Lighting or Lumien, offering high quality you can’t often find in your big box hardware store.

Shine bright, shine efficiently this summer

Don’t rely on summer storms to keep your outdoor lights shining clearly. You may be surprised to discover that a thorough cleaning adds a brilliance you didn’t know you had in your outdoor lighting system.

Clean fixtures for optimal performance: Dirt, dust, and cobwebs can accumulate on your fixtures throughout the year, reducing their effectiveness. Regularly wipe down your fixtures with a soft cloth and mild soap solution. For particularly dirty lenses, remove them for a more thorough cleaning.

Embrace LED technology: Consider switching your outdoor bulbs to LEDs. LEDs are not only energy-efficient, saving you money on your electricity bill, but they also last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Harness the power of timers and sensors: Maximize efficiency and convenience this summer with timers and motion sensors. Timers allow you to set specific lighting hours, ensuring your lights aren’t burning unnecessarily. Motion sensors automatically activate lights when movement is detected, providing targeted illumination only when needed.

Enhance your outdoor oasis

Your home is your castle, and it deserves something better than an ordinary outdoor lighting system this summer. How can you make your outdoor lighting stand out?

Work with a custom lighting designer: Lighting may seem like a simple process, but certified lighting design teams understand the nuances and need for unique placement of light and shadows.

Let there be light, but not light pollution: Be mindful of light spill. Direct your lights downwards to illuminate your desired areas and avoid casting unwanted glare upwards into the night sky. This not only helps your neighbors but also helps preserve the natural night environment for nocturnal creatures.

Think beyond summer: While summer is the prime time for outdoor living, consider your lighting needs throughout the year. Opt for classic and timeless designs that complement your home’s overall aesthetic. Choose fixtures made from durable materials that can withstand the changing seasons.

Luminocity can service your outdoor lighting system

Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your outdoor lighting system shining brightly this summer and beyond. You may be someone who loves to muck around in the dirt checking for broken bulbs and frayed wires, or you may prefer to let the experts handle the dirty work. If you’re the latter, Luminocity’s maintenance plan is an efficient, cost-effective solution. Our trained technicians will clean and inspect each fixture, bury any exposed wires, and trim foliage for optimal lighting. We’ll also change any burnt-out bulbs at no cost during the next 12 months.

Let Luminocity give you the summer outdoor lighting you deserve. Reach out now at 317-537-8055 to schedule a consultation. Shine bright this summer – and beyond – with the professionals at Luminocity.

Light up your home

Do you live in a neighborhood where neighbors meet for impromptu gatherings on a warm summer evening? Create an inviting setting with a home that is awash in light. Don’t settle for just any lighting design, however. When you work with a custom outdoor lighting designer like Luminocity, you’re working with someone who specializes only in outdoor lighting. This means you’ll partner with people like our founder, Karl Lundberg, a Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician and Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer. Karl and his staff go beyond the ordinary to craft designs worthy of your home. They’ll spend time looking for specific focal points that can be highlighted through a combination of uplighting and downlighting, and they’ll elevate your home to starring status with inspired lighting.

Keep the pathways lit

After the sun goes down, it’s tempting to stay inside because you worry about tripping or falling in the darkness. Pathway lighting gives you a measure of security when you opt to stay outside for late-night drinks on the patio or a family gathering that continues past bedtime. Again, a company like Luminocity can install pathway lighting that is effective without being obtrusive. You want to enjoy the light without being in the spotlight!

Light your landscape

If you’re like everyone in Indiana, you’ve spent the last couple of months celebrating the return of warmer weather and coaxing your outdoor landscape back to its initial beauty. All this hard work deserves to be highlighted, and Luminocity can create masterpieces from Mother Nature’s creations. Certain features, like lush trees and foliage, cast complex and beautiful shadows when they’re professionally lit. A good landscape design also lets you enjoy your property when you’re indoors. When you look out your kitchen window after dark, what would you rather see? An inky black darkness or a beautifully lit yard that draws the eye outdoors?

Shining through water

If you’re lucky enough to have a pool, pond, or other water feature on your property, you’re going to want to enjoy them even after the sun goes down. Luminocity installs light that enhances the look of falling water and creates a soothing combination of sights and sounds for those wonderful summer nights. But water feature lighting can bring its own challenges. Underwater fixtures must have a specific Ingress Protection (IP) rating to withstand the pressure of being submerged under water. Light doesn’t travel through water like it does through air, either. Leave this job to the lighting experts at Luminocity.

Lighting the gathering spots

Do your dinner party guests tend to spill onto the deck and patio area? A professional lighting design increases your available entertaining space and encourages visitors to enjoy the comfortable temperatures we enjoy after the Indiana sun goes down.

Shining a light on the shadows

There’s a lot to love about summer, but warmer weather can also bring seasonal challenges. Sadly, our crime rates tend to heat up as the temperature rises in the summer. Fortunately, your outdoor lighting investment can pay you back in increased home security. A well-lit yard also cuts down on those light-night stumbles when you’re gathering the toys and games left over from daytime adventures.

Don’t spend another summer in darkness! Talk to Luminocity now about a custom lighting design for your home. Call us at 317-537-8055 now to set up a consultation, and prepare for a summer of light!

If you’re looking to paint your home in light, read on to find out why you should consider a customer outdoor lighting designer:

Certification counts

Luminocity’s owner and founder, Karl Lundberg, is a Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician and a Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer.  Karl is a lifelong learner, regularly investing in lighting expertise to uncover the nuances that take lighting from fine to fabulous. A certified lighting designer like Karl not only learns the tricks of the trade, he also has a vast network of professional lighting designers whose brains he can pick when he wants another opinion.

“If you want somebody who is going to give you very good thoughts and ideas, and if you want the wow factor, we need to talk,” Karl said.

Your home deserves a custom expert

When your car breaks down, do you take it to a bicycle mechanic? After all, cars and bikes both have wheels, right? Of course not. Customer outdoor lighting designs may cost more than a DIY project, but they’ll pay you back with creativity, security, and a living space that expands beyond the front of your home.

When Karl visits a home, he often takes a solo walk around the property, both the interior and the exterior. He’s looking for the focal points that deserve to come out from behind the shadows. He also wants to see what the homeowners see when they look out of their windows at night. A dark landscape can be dreary or threatening. A custom lit landscape draws the eye outside and illuminates the outdoor structures, water features or foliage.

Custom differences can make a big impact

You may know what a volt is, but do you know what a VA is? The Luminocity team knows the difference, and this knowledge plays an important role in the outdoor lighting design world. Volt-Amps are a unit of measurement for electrical power, representing the amount of energy a device needs draw a current. For instance, a five-watt bulb may need 8 watts to convert that energy. If the lighting design doesn’t include a properly sized transformer, it may not operate efficiently.

A custom lighting design often includes a combination of uplighting and downlighting. Most people are familiar with uplighting, where the lights are mounted at or near ground level, directing their beams upward. But downlighting refers to lights that are mounted above the target, like lights in a tree that illuminate the flowers or landscaping below. Oftentimes, Karl and his team discover that less is more when it comes to lighting. By keeping certain features dark, the lighting design draws the eye to a home’s best features.

Not all light fixtures are alike

Luminocity primarily relies on high quality fixtures by Sterling Lighting or Lumien. You may not find this quality in your neighborhood big box hardware store. These high-quality lighting companies stand apart with innovative products. Light fixtures often have what’s called a CRI – color rendering index. Fixtures with a high CRI tend to highlight their subjects in natural colors. Most lighting designs use fixtures with a CRI rating in the mid-80s. Luminocity relies on fixtures with a CRI rating in the mid-90s.

Custom design comes with custom maintenance

When Luminocity installs a lighting system, Karl and his team will return at the three-month mark to address any concerns of problems. They’ll repeat the process again at six months. From there, homeowners can take advantage of Luminocity’s maintenance plan, which includes quarterly, semi-annual or annual visits, depending on the customer preference. The maintenance plan covers bulb replacement and a thorough inspection and cleaning of each light fixture.

If you’re trying to create a welcoming space that adds security while it highlights your home’s best features, you deserve a custom lighting designer. Talk to Luminocity now about your custom home lighting options. Call us at 317-537-8055 or reach out online. You worked hard for your home. You – and your home – deserve the best.

Tackle spring cleaning tasks

The first hint of warm weather has many of us enthusiastically venturing back outdoors. Did you hear your neighbor’s lawn mower last weekend when the temperatures hit 70 degrees? Now is the time to clear away the leftover leaves and debris from the fall and winter months. If you have an existing outdoor lighting system, take a walk around your property to look for exposed cables and broken fixtures. Better yet, talk to Luminocity about our maintenance plan. We’ll inspect and clean each fixture, bury exposed wires, and trim bushes as needed to achieve an optimal lighting effect. If you notice a burned-out bulb any time during the year, we’ll replace it at no charge.

Spruce up your landscaping

Stand across the street from your home and assess it with a critical eye. How does the landscape look? Are the plants starting to compete for space? Is your favorite flowering shrub producing fewer blooms each year? Landscape plants have a shelf life. If your landscape bedding is starting to look bedraggled this spring, consider an update.

One you have a fresh new landscape, you’ll want to make sure it’s highlighted with path lighting. These strategically placed fixtures will shine a light on your landscape and provide an extra measure of safety and security.

Spring for a front door upgrade

Your entryway is the focal point of your home’s exterior. When was the last time you made a change to your front door? Maybe it’s time for something new, whether it’s a front door with sidelights or a modern fiberglass door with a geometric pattern that completely updates your home’s character. Or, spring for a new coat of paint in a new color, Do you like dignified charcoal or black, or are you more into something fun blue, green or red hues? Remember, entryway lighting is always going to be an important part of your exterior lighting design. You want the front entrance to look warm and inviting without feeling like you’re standing in the spotlight. Let a certified lighting professional handle the lighting strategies that matter.

Spotlight architectural details

Your home’s unique details can look amazing during the day, but what happens when darkness falls? Outdoor lighting by Luminocity experts can create a nighttime masterpiece that continues to outshine the competition. Owner Karl Lundberg and his Luminocity team have been trained in spotting the details that can mingle with light and cast sophisticated lines and shadows. We’ll also use professional level durable fixtures and bulbs, which means good lighting for years to come.

Don’t forget the backyard this spring!

Your yard is your private sanctuary, a place to relax with friends or enjoy some quiet hours of respite after a long workday. Now is the time to make the necessary repairs and upgrade the elements that make your backyard a favorite spot to hang out this summer. Create an extra outdoor living space with deck lighting that gives the entire gathering area a festive feeling while adding safety measures like stair lights. Add tree lighting to take the outdoor area from “nice” to “wow.” Did you know that not all trees are equal when it comes to capturing a superior lighting effect? Certain smaller trees like a Japanese maple, for instance, capture the illumination at eye level. Its dainty branches and colorful leaves create multiple interest points that add to the area’s character.

Does your home have a pool, pond or other water feature? Underwater fixtures can enhance the look of the falling water, while shore lighting can capture the water’s natural movement. If you’re still getting by with standard pool lighting, talk to Luminocity about how an upgraded lighting design can make the whole area look fun and inviting.

Spring is one of the best times to install or update your outdoor lighting. Our professional staff can help identify focal points around your home that should be the stars of the lighting show. We’ll also create a lighting design that lets you stay out later on those warm summer nights. By incorporating these outdoor lighting ideas, you can elevate your home’s curb appeal and create a welcoming ambiance that will last throughout the spring and summer seasons.  For expert advice on choosing the perfect outdoor lighting fixtures for your home, call Luminocity at 317-537-8055.

How can you show your home a little love this month and beyond? We have a few ideas to start your spring checklist.

Love and light

Does your home sit in the shadows? Or does it shrink from the glare of DIY floodlights that were a cheap find at the big box store? Professional, energy efficient lighting technology makes a tangible difference in how your home stands up to the darkness. Luminocity is ready to create a lighting design that highlights your Indiana home’s best features and creates a unique artwork within your landscape. Invest in outdoor lighting now, and you’ll have a head start in creating a welcoming experience for anyone who visits.

Love your home by tackling the small tasks

Do big projects leave you sweating like a seventh grader who wants to give his crush a box of candy? You don’t have to do everything at once to prove that you’re faithful to your home. Consider these smaller jobs, which can add up to big improvements:

Paint a room. As the days get longer and the sunlight streams through your windows, you may realize you’re tired of the wall colors. A new paint color is a sure method of injecting new life into your space. It’s also a great excuse for buying new throw pillows to match!

Clean your baseboards. Sure, you sweep and dust regularly, but when was the last time you gave your baseboards some love? A periodic baseboard clean can be a great pick-me-up for your home.

Rearrange the furniture. Do you still have your television against the wall with the cable line, even though you cut the cord years ago? Move things around a bit. Send the bookcases to the dining room you rarely use and create a library vibe. Play with new light fixtures. Swap out those end tables that you’ve moved several times and really never liked in the first place. It’s time for a change.

Clean your carpets. Hire a professional, or rent a carpet cleaner from the grocery store. You may discover that your carpet is a different shade once you remove the accumulated dirt your dog has been bringing inside for the past several months.

Get rid of some stuff. Do you subscribe to the 80/20 principle at home, where you used 20 percent of your stuff 80 percent of the time? It’s OK to donate the extra pots and pans that are hiding in your cupboards. Go through your books and donate the overflow to your neighborhood library. Create space for new options.

Show some love with bigger projects

The little maintenance tasks make a difference, but the bigger projects can pay you back in dramatic results. What can you do to show your home some love? We have a few ideas:

Clean your gutters. While you were staying warm inside this winter, your gutters were accumulating a collection of dead leaves, sticks, pebbles, and other debris. Clean them out now, before the spring rains begin. Did you know that Indiana’s precipitation chances begin to go up in March, peaking in May? It’s going to rain. Be ready.

Wash your windows. Dirty windows can be an eyesore. Improve your home’s curb appeal when you make your windows sparkle. You’ll enjoy the extra natural light and may even extend the windows’ lifespan by removing the dust and grime that can scratch the surface.

Get a head start on your outdoor chores. Indiana springs often bring us spells of milder weather where you want to be outside. Clean out the dead leaves that accumulated around your home this winter. Make sure your perennials have room to grow by clearing out the clutter.

Check your outdoor lighting system. Over time, your bulbs can become dim and your wires may become exposed thanks to winter weather. All landscape lighting needs to be updated from time to time. You can go out and manually replace every bulb with a fresh one, or you can sign up for Luminocity’s maintenance plan and let us do the dirty work. (We think you’ll love handing this particular task over to our crew.)

Share the love this month with Luminocity. Did you know that spring is a great time to consider an outdoor lighting system? Our Indiana weather will become more hospitable, and soon we’ll be wanting to spend time outside. Make sure your home is illuminated with a professional outdoor lighting design by Luminocity. Call us now at 317-537-8055 to schedule your free consultation!