There’s nothing like enjoying an Atlanta evening with friends and family. Create unforgettable memories with an outdoor lighting design that matches your space and your budget! Read on for some of our favorite outdoor lighting ideas to spark your next project.

The Importance of Outdoor Lighting for Entertaining

Exterior lighting is a backyard lifestyle boost that also raises your home’s value in the eyes of potential buyers. Atlanta homeowners can take advantage of outdoor spaces throughout the year, so capitalize on that opportunity!

Outdoor lighting fixtures – including outdoor patio lights and well-lit paths and landscaping – have plenty of benefits. Here are just a few:

  • Makes entertaining more fun! Set the mood with the right lighting; dim, soft lighting is intimate and romantic, while a well-lit space keeps the party festive! One of our favorite outdoor lighting trends is using dimmers to make outdoor lighting as versatile as interior lighting.

  • Improves safety. Keep everyone safe with well-lit walking paths. In-ground lighting fixtures are a visually appealing way to keep your family and guests on the well-trodden path or guide them to other parts of your property. Mister Sparky of Atlanta can help design the right mix of lighting fixtures to keep everyone on the right path!

  • Adds value to your home. Curb appeal in general – and outdoor lighting in particular – is tough to assign a specific monetary value to. One study by the National Association of Realtors found that well-designed outdoor lighting adds approximately $2,500 to your home’s value and offers an average 50% return on investment.

  • Enhances home security. Exterior lighting at strategic points around your home can play a role in enhancing home security. Neighborhoods with exterior lighting are roughly 7% less likely to experience a break-in, while neighborhoods that added exterior lighting saw crime drop by 39%.

Backyard Lighting Ideas from the Pros

We’ve installed hundreds of exterior lighting systems in the Atlanta area, and recommend these patio lighting ideas to get your project started!

  1. Overhead string lights. One of the most affordable and impactful outdoor lighting concepts, patio string lighting is easy to install, easy to use, and stunning to behold. String lights come in a wide variety of colors and sizes to suit any outdoor space.

  2. Chandeliers. Perfect for covered porches or patios, outdoor chandeliers are built to last in any weather. They’re especially handy for illuminating a dedicated outdoor dining area. Opt for a model with an adjustable dimmer to set the perfect ambiance!

  3. Outdoor task lighting. Get things done or get where you need to go! Task lighting refers to any exterior lighting fixture designed to meet a specific purpose, such as lighting a walkway or illuminating stairs. Many task lighting solutions combine in-ground and wall-mounted exterior lighting fixtures to get the job done.

  4. Portable lighting. One of the most notable outdoor lighting trends is portable lights. Several manufacturers have released portable LED lamps available in interesting shapes and colors. While they may not be bright enough to truly light your outdoor entertaining space, they add an eye-catching touch to the party!

To Help You Decide: Outdoor Lighting Basics

Before you get too far down the planning rabbit hole, keep a few tips in mind. First, while LED lights may cost more upfront, they’re energy-efficient, won’t impact your electric bill as much as other options, and meet federal bulb requirements that sunset incandescent bulbs in July 2023. LED also last much longer than other bulbs.

Upgrade Your Backyard Entertaining Space with Mister Sparky

Make those summer memories last longer. You can always count on Mister Sparky of Atlanta to design, source, and install a beautiful exterior lighting system that enhances your home’s value and your enjoyment. We’ll make your ideas for outdoor lighting a reality! Book an appointment online or call (770) 824-9592 to get started.