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extended living space. Lighting on each, or select posts, will
provide a comfortable amount of light for evening socializing.
Remember to illuminate steps and changes in deck elevation
levels. The slender hardscape units used under the masonry cap
can also be configured to mount under wood rails, floors and
the support structure.
On ground-level patios, the challenges of lighting are a bit
more complex, but can be handled equally well, if forethought is
put into place. UL-listed outdoor portable lamps can add a won-
derful touch of light to sitting areas, and promote reading later
into the night than expected. Low-voltage path and spread light-
ing should be added to the landscape areas adjacent to the patio.
The spill of light will accent the flowers and plants in addition to
the floor surface, providing a nice connection between nature and
the home. If the area is covered with a pergola, consider adding
a low-voltage pendant or even a chandelier for a real statement
piece. Finally, look for areas where moonlighting can be added.
Low-voltage lighting mounted in trees, on the arbor or pergola
roof, or somewhere else from above and aimed toward the living
space below can create a magical, shadow-filled, even romantic
environment in which to relax.
In outdoor food preparation areas, added lighting will be
required to facilitate nighttime cooking. If the space is covered
with a roof, many outdoor lighting families include a hang-
ing pendant that matches the surface-mounted lighting on the
home. This light will go a long way to ensure the burgers aren't
burnt on the grill. Surface-mounted lights also work well here.
Outdoor entertainment continues to be one of the most
popular activities in America. Expenditures on outdoor living
elements rise each and every year, even in tough economic
times. With the addition of lighting, the enjoyment found in
these areas will only increase.
Over his almost 40-year career, Jeffrey R. Dross has been involved
in most every facets of the lighting business, has designed numerous
residential installations and writes and speaks regularly on lighting.
He is currently Kichler's Corporate Director, Education and Industry
Trends.
Deck lighting on the posts illuminates both the steps and surface. Path and spread lighting adjacent to the stone patio lights the foliage and flooring.
Ground-mounted accent lighting pours light onto the stone piers that surround the
gated grounds and patio. Path and spread lighting in the flower bed also provides
illumination to the adjoining patio.
All photos provided by Kichler
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