1. We’re thankful for the gift of family and friends

There’s nothing quite like the love and support of family and friends. Their presence in our lives brings joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging. When you trust Luminocity for your outdoor lighting, you can trust that we’ll treat you like a friend. Our staff has invested countless hours to become the most knowledgeable about what makes landscape lighting work. Let us create something special for you.

2. Giving thanks for the blessing of good hHealth

Good health is often taken for granted until it’s challenged. We’re thankful for the ability to move freely, think clearly, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Did you know that landscape lighting can help you stay safe around your home, especially during these upcoming winter months when you might not notice a slick coating on your entryway? Plus, a well-lit yard lets you walk with confidence, without worrying about tripping in the dark.

3. Grateful for the beauty of our community

Noblesville, Indiana, is more than just a place to live; it’s a community. We’re grateful for the friendly faces, the vibrant events, and the strong sense of community spirit that makes this city so special. Looking for some unique holiday gifts? Take your list to downtown Noblesville to check out the shops and galleries.

4. We’re thankful for the wonders of nature

The changing seasons, the breathtaking landscapes, and the wildlife that surrounds us are a constant reminder of the beauty and power of nature. Here in Central Indiana, many of us are blessed to live on picturesque property with incredible natural elements. Luminocity can help highlight those natural resources without overpowering your yard. Park and walkway lighting, as well as tree and shrub lighting, enhance the natural beauty of your landscape. And if the weather outside gets frightful, Luminocity will help the snow look delightful with a lighting system designed to work all year round.

5. Giving thanks for the magic of light

We’re often asked if we install holiday lights, and the answer is no, we leave that task to companies who are focused on bringing the twinkling to your home for a month. But our landscape lights are intended to shine throughout the year. A thoughtful lighting design will add dimension as well as beauty to your home. By placing lights at different angles throughout your yard, Luminocity can create multiple layers and focal points for a dramatic nighttime effect.

6. Let’s not forget our dedicated team

Our team is the heart and soul of Luminocity. We’re thankful for their hard work, creativity, and dedication to providing exceptional service to our customers.

7. Thanks to you, our customer

We couldn’t do what we do without the support of our loyal customers. Your trust and confidence in us are truly appreciated. When you entrust your property to Luminocity, you can take comfort in knowing that we’ll design lighting that takes advantage of its beautiful features and puts your home in the light it deserves. We’ll take a walk around your home to find the hidden spots that are just waiting to be brought into the subtle and sophisticated lighting design. Each project is different, and we’ll tailor a custom exterior illumination solution to fit your individual needs.

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s remember to express our gratitude for the many blessings in our lives. From all of us at Luminocity, Happy Thanksgiving!

Karl is more than a lighting designer and company owner. He’s a father, husband, grandfather and proud Hamilton County resident. He’s also the owner of a rescue dog named Hachi who likes to shed (and shed and shed.) Read on for more Karl insights.

Karl: The early days

1. Where were you born? I was born in Olean, a small city in upstate New York.

2. Where did you go to school? I grew up in a very rural area. I attended Portville Central School for kindergarten-12^th grade. My graduating class totaled 115.

3. What did you want to be when you grew up?  I had no idea.

4. What was your favorite holiday when you were a kid? Christmas.

5. If your mom was looking for you and couldn’t find you, where were you likely to be? At a buddy’s house.

Karl: The Marine

6. When did you join the Marines and how long did you serve? I joined the Marines in 1979 and served for just under 30 years.

7. Did you have a favorite assignment or station while you were serving? Each assignment has its own special memory.  My initial duty station was in Okinawa, Japan. I was a platoon commander of 35 young Marines. We trained hard and forged a tight bond.

My last assignment was at Camp Pendleton, California. I was activated from the Marine Corps Reserve after 9/11. Although I was trained as a combat engineer, I took over a logistics section. I wrote the order for how the equipment that was left behind at Camp Pendleton would be repaired and sent to the fight. It was inspiring to see the order implemented. The unit I was leading was responsible for providing desert uniforms for reserve units going to Iraq via Camp Pendleton, issuing security ammunition to Marine units going to the fight, handled hazardous waste, securing convalescent barracks for wounded Marines, and arranging for Angel flights for returning Marines to obtain flights home.

8. What surprised you about being in the Marines? “Once a Marine, always a Marine” is true. The change is forever. I heard about this and thought that it was a slogan. Having lived it, I know it is true.

9. What lessons from the Marines do you carry with you today?  You take responsibility for what you accomplish or fail to achieve. 

10. What was your favorite thing about being a Marine? Serving something larger than myself.  Serving one’s country via an elite fighting force requires sacrifice, but there isn’t a more nobler thing to do than serve one’s country.

Karl: The outdoor lighting expert

11. How and when did you get into the outdoor lighting business? I had always been interested in being an entrepreneur. Although I enjoyed my job as a director of marketing, it was time to make a change. I explored various options and was intrigued by outdoor lighting.  I learned about a franchise, Outdoor Lighting Perspectives, and decided to take the plunge. That was in 2005. 

12. What’s something people might not know about outdoor lighting? Using the right designer makes all the difference. You can use the best outdoor lights but if they aren’t used properly, the results won’t be very impressive. It is imperative to use the right color temperature, beam spread and lumen output to have the right look.

13. What sort of certifications do you have, and why are those important? I am a Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer, Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technician and mentor for the International Landscape Lighting Institute. This has exposed me to some of the best outdoor lighting designers in the world. It isn’t all that much different from other skilled occupations. If you need medical care, most likely you would expect that the best results will be from the one who has received the best training. The landscape lighting industry is mostly filled by people who have never had a minute of actual training. They just started putting lights in the ground and hoped for the best. The idea of doing a thoughtful design is foreign to many of them.

14. Do you find yourself making mental lighting improvements to houses when you drive in the dark? I have become an outdoor lighting snob. Most landscape lighting isn’t done very well. That is because most guys that design and install lights have been self-taught. They don’t know any better and just wing it.

15. What’s your most important rule of outdoor lighting? There isn’t just one. I always ask myself, “What is the focus of this composition?” When placing the fixtures I always consider where the person looking at the item illuminated will be viewing it. I always interview the homeowner to learn what is important to them. 

Karl: The man

16. What’s your greatest accomplishment? I don’t know if there is just one. When I was 16, I rode a bicycle from Mexico to Canada. Becoming a Colonel in the Marine Corps is very special. I have summited the highest point in 44 states with my boys. (In case anyone is wondering, Hoosier Hill in East Central Indiana is the highest point in the state, at 1,257 feet above sea level.)

17. What do you like to do on your days off? In my off time I like to read or work on projects around the house.

18. What’s the smartest thing you ever did? Ask my wife to marry me.

19. Dogs or cats? We have a rescue dog named Hachi. He is a smart dog and did very well at dog school. I don’t know who learned more – Hachi or me. Unfortunately, he sheds and sheds and…

20. What is still on your bucket list? There are still many National Parks I have yet to visit.

Are you looking for extraordinary landscape lighting? Trust your home to a man who has invested the time and knowledge to understand what it truly takes to showcase a property. Reach out to Luminocity now for your free consultation. While you’re at it, feel free to ask Karl about that bicycle trip from Mexico to Canada!

Your central Indiana’s home’s architectural features are a testament to its unique style and character. But what if you could showcase these features even more dramatically? The answer lies in professional landscape lighting by the trained professional lighting team at Luminocity. With the right design and placement, outdoor lighting can transform your home into a captivating nighttime spectacle.

Highlighting key architectural elements

When the architect designed your home, he or she included several elements that were intended to evoke a certain response or emotional appeal. Taken as a whole, you might not notice the intricate combination of artistic details. But with proper outdoor lighting, your eye will be drawn to the details that let your home stand out in the neighborhood.

Luminocity’s staff has invested many hours in education to ensure that you get the best design for your money. As home to two of only five Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technicians (CLVLT) in Indiana, as well as the only Certified Outdoor Lighting Designer (COLD), we can offer unparalleled expertise. For instance, we’ll work to highlight specific architectural areas of your home with the right fixtures and lighting:

• Facade lighting: Draw attention to your home’s exterior with soft, warm lighting that highlights its intricate details. Uplighting can accentuate architectural features such as columns, arches, and cornices.
• Window lighting: Create a welcoming ambiance by illuminating your windows with subtle, downward-facing lights. This can add depth and dimension to your home’s facade.
• Path and walkway lighting: Guide visitors safely through your property while creating a charming atmosphere. Path lights and bollards can be strategically placed to highlight walkways and garden features.
• Tree and shrub Lighting: Enhance the natural beauty of your landscape by illuminating trees and shrubs with uplighting or spotlights. This can create dramatic shadows and add a touch of mystery.

Choosing the right architectural lighting techniques

Luminocity believes that good outdoor lighting goes beyond installing a few fixtures around the house. We believe in paying attention to the finer details, doing things right the first time and teasing out the small elements that make a dramatic impact. Our team works with outdoor lighting professionals around the United States to understand the different techniques that contribute to the final illuminated product:

• Uplighting: This technique directs light upward, creating a dramatic effect and highlighting architectural features.
• Downlighting: Downlights cast light downward, providing a soft and inviting ambiance.
• Wash lighting: This technique uses wide-angle fixtures to create a uniform wash of light across surfaces.

A professional outdoor lighting expert will use a combination of these techniques to create intentional shadows and contrasts upon your home’s exterior. Consequently, you’ll see your home in a new light as its unique architectural features take on a starring role.

Benefits of professional landscape lighting

Are you tempted to drive to the nearest big box store and make your home lighting design a DIY project? We try to warn our customers before they sink their money into a project that may not see a strong return on investment. A professional landscape lighting designer pays you back with one-of-a-kind designs and lighting insights that keep your home beautiful. You may enjoy other advantages as well:

• Increased home value: Well-designed landscape lighting can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase its resale value.
• Enhanced safety: Outdoor lighting can deter crime and make your property safer for both you and your guests.
• Improved mood: The soft glow of outdoor lights can create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
• Energy efficiency: Modern LED lighting technology offers energy-efficient solutions that reduce your environmental impact.

Partner with a trusted landscape lighting expert

To maximize the impact of your home’s architectural features, it’s essential to work with a professional landscape lighting company like Luminocity. When you schedule a consultation with Luminocity, we will assess your home’s unique features, develop a customized lighting plan, and install the highest quality fixtures. By investing in professional landscape lighting, you can transform your home into a stunning nighttime destination. Reach out to Luminocity now at 317-537-8055 or contact us online to start your journey to a more illuminated and inviting outdoor space.

As summer winds down, Indiana is already preparing for the colder months. You’ve probably noticed that our days are slowly getting shorter—by mid-September, we’ll no longer see daylight after 8 pm. Don’t be afraid of the dark, though. Luminocity stands ready to light up your surroundings with a professional outdoor landscape lighting plan. Fall is the perfect time to install outdoor lighting. Your foliage isn’t new and fragile like it was in the spring months, and outdoor lighting can brighten your home when the leaves are gone and we’re living in the endless gray period known as winter in Indiana. Read on for five great reasons why you should consider outdoor landscape lighting this fall.

Extend your outdoor entertaining options

Have you opened your windows at night yet? Fall in Indiana often means a stretch of comfortable temperatures where you’re neither wilting in the heat or bundling up to stay warm. While central Indiana usually sees its first frost in late October, we still have plenty of time for outdoor activities. Whether you’re trying to squeeze a few more weeks out of your pool or you’re looking for extra room to congregate during a dinner party, outdoor lighting can increase your gathering space. Or, if you’re more of an introvert, you can simply unwind outdoors in the gentle glow of landscape lights to enjoy a quiet evening.

Enhance your fall foliage

Fall foliage is a breathtaking natural spectacle.  But have you ever considered how much more stunning it can be with the right lighting? Outdoor lighting can accentuate the vibrant colors of your trees, creating a mesmerizing display that will leave your neighbors envious. Imagine the golden hues of your maple trees dancing in the soft light – it’s a truly enchanting sight. Luminocity can create a magical lighting design through selective use of uplighting and downlighting, letting your home and landscape be the star of the show.

Improve safety and security

As the days get shorter, safety becomes an increasing concern. Outdoor lighting can help deter intruders by illuminating potential hiding spots. Additionally, well-lit pathways and steps can prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of your family and guests. Did you know that falling is one of the most common injuries that can occur at home? Walkway lights can help illuminate pathways and stairs that might otherwise be trip hazards. Plus they’ll come in handy in a couple of months when the ghosts and goblins are traipsing up your walkway to collect something sweet.

Increase your home’s curb appeal and value

Put yourself in the shoes of a potential homebuyer. Would you prefer the home that sits in darkness, or the one that is thoughtfully lit to accent its best features and create its own masterpiece? Outdoor lighting can be a valuable investment that may significantly increase your home’s resale value. Even if you plan to stay put, think of outdoor lighting as an investment in your own comfort and happiness.

Give your existing lighting a fall makeover

Fall in Indiana is often a busy time for homeowners, who are harvesting the bounty in the gardens they planted last spring and cleaning the gutters in preparation for torrential fall rainstorms. It’s also a good time to spiff up your existing lighting system in time for the winter months, when you prefer to enjoy your outdoor lighting through the windows of your warm home. Luminocity recommends that homeowners turn off their circuit breakers and clean the lighting fixtures with mild soapy water to remove water deposits, dirt and debris. Want to avoid this messy task? Talk to Luminocity about our maintenance plan, which keeps your system operating a peak efficiency month after month. Our maintenance plan covers a thorough cleaning and inspection of your entire outdoor lighting system. We’ll check the timer, prune overgrown foliage, and replace any burned out bulbs. It’s a great investment in your home’s beauty.

Who else is ready for fall? Don’t sentence your home to a winter of cold and darkness. Put it in lights with an inspired lighting design by Luminocity. Remember, Luminocity not only installs new lighting systems, but we’ll also work to maintain and enhance any existing lighting system you might have. Call us now at 317-537-8055 to schedule a consultation and find out what Luminocity can do for you this fall!

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!