Summer Storm Season: Safety and Surreal Beauty in Illumination
As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, summer storms bring a unique beauty and energy to our lives. However, with the arrival of storm season today, it’s crucial to ensure that our outdoor spaces are both safe and enchanting. In this post, we’ll explore the significance of landscape lighting during the summer storm season and how Decorating Elves can help by implementing appropriate lighting solutions. We can work with you to transform your outdoor spaces into captivating havens, no matter the weather.
1. Safety First, Lighting as a Protective Measure
When it comes to summer storms, safety should always be a top priority. Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents and ensure that your outdoor areas remain safe during inclement weather. Consider installing pathway lights to illuminate walkways, stairs, and potential hazards. Low-voltage LED lights (one of our specialities) are a cost-effective and energy-efficient choice, offering bright illumination while consuming less power. Additionally, motion-activated floodlights can provide added security by deterring unwanted intruders during the stormy nights.
2. Enhancing the Beauty of Your Landscape
Despite the occasional stormy weather, summer is a time when outdoor gatherings, barbecues, and relaxing evenings with loved ones become more frequent. Well-planned landscape lighting can enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces and create a magical atmosphere even during stormy evenings.
a. Accentuating Key Features: Use uplights or spotlights to highlight unique elements of your landscape, such as tall trees, sculptures, or architectural details. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also draws attention away from potential storm-related imperfections.
b. Festive String Lights: String lights can transform any outdoor area into a whimsical wonderland. Hang them across patios, pergolas, or even in trees to create a warm and inviting ambiance. Opt for weatherproof and durable string lights to ensure they withstand the elements.
c. Silhouettes in the Rain: Rainy weather can create stunning visual effects when paired with proper lighting. Experiment with backlighting or silhouette effects by placing lights strategically behind rain-soaked objects or plant life. This creates a surreal and captivating atmosphere, bringing out the unique charm of summer storms.
3. Resilient Lighting Solutions
When selecting lighting fixtures for your outdoor spaces, we understand what is crucial to withstand the elements. Here are a few resilient lighting solutions ideal for the summer storm season:
a. Weatherproof Fixtures: We only invest in fixtures designed explicitly for outdoor use and those with high IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, indicating their resistance to water and dust. These fixtures will keep your landscape lighting functioning flawlessly even in heavy downpours.
b. Underground Lighting: Pathway lights or recessed fixtures that are installed below ground level are not only visually appealing but also less susceptible to damage from storms. They remain protected while providing illumination to guide you and your guests safely through your outdoor spaces.
c. Timer Controls and Smart Lighting: Consider installing timer controls or smart lighting systems that allow you to program your landscape lighting to turn on and off automatically. This feature ensures your lights operate efficiently, even if you’re away or caught off guard by an unexpected summer storm.
Summer storms bring a unique charm to our lives, especially here in Florida. With the right landscape lighting, you can fully embrace the enchanting atmosphere they create. By prioritizing safety, enhancing the beauty of your outdoor spaces, and selecting resilient lighting solutions, you can ensure that your landscape lighting stands strong during the storm season. Let your outdoor areas shine bright, rain or shine, and make the most of this captivating time of year. The design team at Decorating Elves is happy to meet with you to address any concerns you may have or improvements you’d like to make. We look forward to connecting with you.