log home Outdoor lightingOutdoor lighting is an important detail to include in your log home budget. Not only for safety and security, but to emphasize all the beautiful architectural details of your custom designed, new log home. Putting the lighting in the right place and making sure that the effects are subtle but effective is key to making the most of your home’s nighttime appearance.

LED is Key to Efficiency
Many home owners have been reluctant to invest in extensive exterior lighting because of the cost of electricity and the hassle of changing bulbs. LED outdoor lighting has made it easier to design a breathtaking and effective exterior lighting scheme without breaking the bank. Most LED lights use 75% less electricity than traditional light fixtures. LEDs shine brightly from a small source, so fewer, smaller and better placed options are now available. Many manufacturers are designing beautiful fixtures for home exteriors. One that we love for log homes is the Kichler Harvest Ridge collection.

outdoor lightingHighlights and Low Lights
On log homes, many homeowners place down lights on purlin eaves and tucked up under porch roofs to illuminate walls. Small upward directed lighting can also pick out the details on the exterior of your home. It’s important to place and aim the fixtures so that they don’t blind people or create a “runway” effect that is overpowering. Other areas that are popular for additional lighting are stairways, walkways and in gardens to showcase plantings.

Outdoor Lighting for Activities
Providing the right amount of light around outdoor entertainment areas can make them inviting and as useful in the evening as during the daytime. Try under-rail lighting around decks and patios. Small down directed spots can light up porch seating for outdoor entertaining. Planning a stone patio and fire pit? Tuck small lights under the edges of benches or outdoor lighting appon the perimeter to warm the scene.

Wi-Fi Controls and Dimmers
Many outdoor lighting options now include Wi-Fi controls that can be operated from a smartphone or tablet like those from Luxor. On-off switching and dimmer controls using sliding icons are great for customizing the look and feel of outdoor installations. Some even offer color changes!