Outdoor lighting around DFW homes has evolved. Thanks to innovations in LED lights, homeowners can add a touch of light to virtually any outdoor space. Some of the best uses of outdoor lighting combine dramatic washes of light to accent the home while providing an element of security

Lighting Down Under

One of the hottest trends in DFW homes is using LEDs under ledges and even furniture to create a cool glow. You can buy outdoor furniture with lighting already built in like on this designer deck in Dallas, or you can create a similar look by installing strips of LEDs yourself.

Less Is More

Sometimes just a few strings of ordinary white lights can create the perfect look, like on this Dallas patio with Tuscan flair. String lights come in all shapes, designs, and colors. LED options use a fraction of the electricity as incandescent varieties, so if you’re planning to leave your lights on all night, take that into account.

Beautiful Security

Keeping your home lit at night helps keep it secure. You can achieve security without giant, ugly flood lamps with well-planned outdoor lighting.

Turn a plain wall into something extraordinary with a series of lights arranged to cast their lights up along a surface. Directional floods placed every couple of feet in a flower bed makes this a quick, easy installation, especially if you use solar lights.

Another option is to install fixtures that direct light both up and down, like this Dallas-area contemporary home. Note that the designer used a single recessed light at the dark corner of the house to provide additional lighting without a ugly floor light fixture.

Lighting Architectural Elements

Lighting the interesting architectural details of your home is a way to make those details stand out, while adding a touch of drama; it also increases security. This Dallas-area home makes the most of its Mediterranean-style architecture by directing floodlights at its pillars.

Light and Water

If you have a water feature like a fountain, pond, or swimming pool, make sure it has some great lighting. This designer simply added a row of lanterns to this horizontal water feature in a Metroplex home. Waterproof LED lights can be placed in or around your pool for a festive look for a party or for everyday beauty.

Shine the light on the beauty of your home, both for security and to create a lasting impression!

Image Source: Flickr

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