Remember, warm evenings last well into fall here in Indiana. The right lighting extends the usability of your patio, deck, and garden well past dusk. Beyond simply illuminating, professional lighting creates depth, highlights architectural features, and crafts an inviting atmosphere that DIY solutions simply can’t replicate.

Read on for some common lighting options that will carry you through summer and beyond.

Summer path and walkway lighting

One of the absolute must-have lighting options for summer nights is path and walkway lighting. As guests move around your property, clearly illuminated paths ensure safety and prevent trips and falls. But it’s not just about functionality. Well-placed path lights add a welcoming glow, guiding the eye and enhancing the overall aesthetics of your landscaping. Modern path lights come in a variety of styles, from subtle, low-profile fixtures that blend seamlessly into your garden to more decorative options that add a touch of elegance.

Summer accents

Next on the list are accent lighting solutions designed to showcase your home’s unique features. Think about illuminating a beautiful tree, a striking statue, a water feature, or even the textured stone of your home’s facade. Uplighting from the base of a tree creates a dramatic silhouette against the night sky, while carefully directed spotlights can highlight architectural details, adding depth and visual interest. This strategic illumination turns your garden into a nighttime masterpiece, revealing its beauty in a new light. But it’s not as easy as it sounds. An amateur lighting job can cast a harsh “V” shape of light against a tree or wall. Professional lighting by certified lighting designers – and Luminocity has a few of those – uses light to create a soft wash of illumination.

Consider ambient and task lighting

For your primary entertaining areas, such as patios and decks, ambient and task lighting are crucial. While string lights certainly contribute to a festive mood, professional options like integrated deck lighting or strategically placed downlights from pergolas or eaves offer a more sophisticated and effective solution. Integrated deck lights, often recessed into steps or railings, provide subtle illumination for safety and ambiance without being intrusive. Downlights can create a soft, even wash of light over your dining or seating areas, ensuring you have enough light for meals, conversations, and games, without the harshness of overhead floodlights.

Stay secure this summer with professional lighting

Even the safest neighborhoods can be targets for thieves. Don’t overlook the importance of security lighting that blends seamlessly with your aesthetic design. Motion-activated lights can deter unwanted visitors, but they don’t have to be unsightly. Modern security lighting can be integrated into your overall lighting scheme, providing both peace of mind and an enhanced sense of safety without compromising the beauty of your outdoor spaces.

Investing in professional outdoor lighting provides a robust, elegant, and long-lasting solution for truly enjoying your summer nights. Luminocity’s professional lighting designers can assess your property, understand your vision, and create a custom lighting plan that enhances your home’s curb appeal, extends your living space outdoors, and creates unforgettable memories under the stars. This summer, transform your nights with light. Reach out to Luminocity now at 317-537-8055 for a consultation. It’s time to turn on the lights with Luminocity.

The power of professional outdoor lighting in the evening

Outdoor lighting plays a critical role in enhancing the usability and enjoyment of your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, relaxing with family, or hanging out in the pool, a professionally designed lighting system ensures your space is both functional and inviting.

Sure, you can go online and order some temporary solutions like string lights or DIY fixtures. But you may be tossing them in the trash by the time fall rolls around. Professional outdoor lighting systems are designed for longevity, safety, and optimal performance. At Luminocity, our lighting designs rely on high-quality materials and expert installation techniques to withstand the elements and provide consistent illumination night after night.

Extend your usable outdoor space

Here in Indiana, we love our summer nights. After several months of being cooped inside while the weather outside is frightful, we’re ready for several months of delightful. Professional lighting lets you maximize your outdoor living spaces, enjoying a warm summer evening well after dark. Luminocity can help you make the most of your space by illuminating patios, pathways, decks, and gardens. Pathway lighting provides both safety and ambiance, ensuring you and your guests can navigate your property with ease. Accent lighting highlights architectural features, water elements, and landscape details, creating a dynamic visual experience. And with strategic zone lighting, you can customize the mood and functionality of different areas within your outdoor environment.

Create a comfortable, inviting evening atmosphere

A well-lit outdoor space isn’t just about practicality. It’s about atmosphere. When you partner with a professional outdoor lighting expert like Luminocity, you’re going to enjoy a lighting design that’s made for your unique lifestyle. Expect our technicians to ask specific questions about what you love the most about your property and where you like to spend your outdoor time. We’ll work to transform a dark backyard into a warm, inviting retreat. With the right balance of light and shadow, you can create cozy gathering spots, dramatic focal points, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Increase safety and security

Outdoor lighting doesn’t just enhance beauty and ambiance, it also improves safety and security. Well-lit pathways, entrances, and driveways reduce the risk of trips and falls for you and your guests. Motion-activated lights can deter unwanted visitors. Professionally installed outdoor lighting systems offer reliable, energy-efficient solutions that keep your property safe and secure without compromising style.

Why choose professional over DIY?

We get it. It’s tempting to think you can do your own lighting with fixtures purchased at the local big box store or with a company that also handles landscaping, building and other outdoor services. But only a professional company like Luminocity can give you trained lighting technicians who have invested hours into lighting certifications and techniques that let your home shine. As a member of the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals, Luminocity has access to inside information in the lighting industry. We’ll make sure your home is lit with the finest quality equipment with the best track record, because you deserve to see your home painted in beautiful illumination.

Make the most of your evenings with Luminocity

There’s no need to limit your outdoor enjoyment to daylight hours. With professional outdoor lighting from Luminocity, you can extend your evenings and make the most of every moment outside. Whether you’re hosting, relaxing, or simply admiring your surroundings, our expertly designed lighting systems ensure your outdoor spaces are always ready to shine.

Ready to illuminate your nights? Contact Luminocity today at 317-537-8055 to learn how we can transform your outdoor space with professional outdoor lighting solutions tailored to your specific outdoor needs.

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!