Decorating Elves, Author at Decorating Elves

22 Aug

Designing a Great Sound System for Your Great Outdoors

Transforming your outdoor space isn’t just about visual aesthetics. The right audio setup can create a mood, bring life to parties, or simply offer an immersive nature experience. While designing an outdoor audio system might seem straightforward, ensuring crystal clear sound across your garden, pool, or patio requires careful planning. Here are our top tips to make your outdoor audio truly resonate.

Understand Your Space

Before investing in equipment, evaluate your outdoor area. Is it an intimate garden or an expansive backyard? The size and layout determine the number, type, and placement of speakers. It’s essential to distribute sound strategically and evenly so that you don’t have areas that are too loud or too quiet.

Choose Weather-Resistant Equipment

Tampa Bay’s tropical climate means unexpected rain showers and high humidity. Always opt for weather-resistant or waterproof speakers and equipment designed to withstand the elements. You may want to take it a step further and make sure your outdoor audio equipment is impervious to algae growth as well since algae spread via wind currents here in Tampa Bay quite easily.

Opt for Directional Speakers

Unlike indoor spaces where walls help reflect and distribute sound, the open nature of outdoor areas can dissipate sound waves. Directional speakers focus sound towards specific areas, ensuring clarity with pinpoint precision and reducing noise pollution to neighbors.

Bury the Cables

Nothing disrupts the beauty of a landscaped garden like cables running everywhere. Use conduits to bury and protect speaker wires. This not only enhances aesthetics but also keeps cables safe from our unpredictable weather and over-zealous garden tools.

Consider Wireless Systems

If burying cables sounds too extensive, there are high-quality wireless outdoor audio systems available. They offer excellent sound, and flexibility in speaker placement, and often integrate seamlessly with smart home systems. Wireless outdoor audio setups are still somewhat new, so do your research before investing in one of these modern systems.

Balance Sound Sources

A great outdoor audio setup isn’t just about volume; it’s about immersion. Position speakers around your space to envelop listeners, creating a balanced sound experience from every angle. Think of it the same as a surround sound setup in your home…having the audio pour in from all directions really makes you feel like you’re in the TV show or movie, and your outdoor spaces deserve this same attention.

Integrate with Lighting

Sound and light go hand-in-hand in creating ambiance. Consider integrating your audio system with your outdoor lighting setup. This way, when you switch to party mode with upbeat tracks, the lights can shift and color-change in sync, creating a holistic sensory experience that will wow both young and old.

Test and Adjust

Once everything’s set up, spend time in different areas of your outdoor space listening to various types of music. Adjust speaker angles and volume levels to ensure the best sound quality everywhere. Get your family members or friends to help out, as people of different heights might have different perceptions.

Call in the Pros

Just as with lighting, designing an outdoor audio system is both an art and a science. Consulting with professionals (like us at Decorating Elves!) can help in selecting the right equipment, optimizing placement, and ensuring the best sound quality. We often get calls from home and business owners who tried to DIY but quickly realized the value of experienced professionals when designing an outdoor audio setup. We helped them and can help you too!

Ready to Sit Back and Listen to Some Sweet Sounds?

For expert guidance on crafting the perfect outdoor audio experience in Tampa Bay, don’t hesitate to reach out to Decorating Elves. Call us at 727-474-2628 or contact us online to schedule your free outdoor audio consultation today, and get ready to sit back and relax with some sweet tunes in all your outdoor spaces.

18 Aug

Illuminate Safety: Back to School

As the summer sun begins to set and the cool breeze of autumn starts to sweep through the air, it’s clear that back-to-school season is upon us. With the excitement of new books, friends, and adventures, it’s important not to overlook the essential aspect of safety. One often underrated way to enhance safety around your home during this time is through outdoor lighting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves as a tool to promote safety and create a welcoming environment for the back-to-school season.

The Importance of Outdoor Lighting for Safety:

As the days grow shorter and students head back to school, well-placed outdoor lighting becomes essential. Illuminating walkways, driveways, and entry points can help prevent accidents and create a clear path for students, parents, and visitors arriving at your home. Adequate lighting discourages potential intruders, providing peace of mind for you and your family.

outdoor landscape lighting tampa fl

Enhancing Curb Appeal:

Beyond safety, outdoor lighting offers an opportunity to enhance the curb appeal of your home. Decorating Elves specializes in creating lighting arrangements that not only serve a functional purpose but also add an aesthetic dimension to your outdoor space. By skillfully highlighting architectural features, landscaping, and pathways, your home will become a welcoming beacon that stands out in the neighborhood.

Customized Solutions by Decorating Elves:

Every home is unique, and its lighting needs should be treated as such. Decorating Elves understands the value of tailored solutions. Whether it’s path lighting, accent lighting, or even security lighting, our team of experts can work with you to design a lighting plan that suits your specific requirements and complements your home’s architecture.

Energy-Efficient and Smart Lighting:

Worried about energy consumption? Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be a burden on your electricity bill. Decorating Elves can help you choose energy-efficient options like LED lights that are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. Additionally, integrating smart lighting technology allows you to control your outdoor lights remotely, ensuring that your home always looks welcoming, whether you’re home or away.

Creating Safe Play Spaces:

For families with children, a well-lit outdoor area can become a safe and inviting playground. As kids engage in after-school activities and playdates, properly lit spaces ensure they can have fun without risking trips and falls. Well-lit spaces also make it easier for parents to supervise outdoor play in the early evening hours.

As the back-to-school season rolls around, prioritizing safety is key. The addition of Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves not only ensures the safety of your loved ones and visitors but also adds a touch of charm to your home. With our expertise in designing customized solutions and commitment to energy efficiency, you can trust Decorating Elves to illuminate your outdoor spaces in the most effective and appealing way possible. Prepare for a successful school year by brightening up your surroundings with the expertise of Decorating Elves.

15 Aug

20 Years of Outdoor Lighting Magic with Decorating Elves!

When it comes to enhancing the beauty and ambiance of our outdoor spaces, lighting plays a pivotal role. For the past two decades, Decorating Elves has been at the forefront of creating mesmerizing outdoor lighting displays using energy-efficient LED lights. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of LED lights and how Decorating Elves has been transforming outdoor spaces into captivating wonderlands for the past 20 years.

This means we are perfectly positioned as seasoned experts in the wake of the phasing out of incandescent lights. The recent ban is leading to homeowners and commercial properties alike switching to LEDs. This article by Architectural Digest details the new law and what it means for you. Read on below for all the info on LED lights!

The Evolution of LED Lights

LED (Light Emitting Diode) technology has come a long way since its inception. Initially, it was limited to indicator lights and small displays. However, with significant advancements, LED lights have revolutionized the lighting industry, finding applications in various fields due to their exceptional energy efficiency and longevity.

Energy Efficiency: The Green Lighting Solution

One of the most remarkable benefits of LED lights is their energy efficiency. Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights consume significantly less power while producing the same or even brighter illumination. This energy efficiency not only reduces electricity bills but also contributes to a greener environment by minimizing carbon emissions.

Decorating Elves recognized the potential of LED lights early on and has been using them extensively to create awe-inspiring outdoor lighting displays while reducing their clients’ environmental footprint.

Longevity: Lights That Stand the Test of Time

When it comes to outdoor lighting, longevity is a crucial factor. Traditional bulbs have a limited lifespan and require frequent replacements, which can be a costly and time-consuming affair. In contrast, LED lights have an impressive lifespan, lasting up to 20 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

By incorporating LED lights into their designs, Decorating Elves ensures that their clients enjoy long-lasting, low-maintenance outdoor lighting solutions that continue to shine brightly for years to come.

Versatility in Design

LED lights offer immense flexibility in terms of design possibilities. Decorating Elves has harnessed this versatility to create stunning outdoor lighting displays that cater to various aesthetics and themes. Whether it’s a subtle and romantic ambiance or a vibrant and festive atmosphere, LED lights allow for an endless array of creative options.

From string lights delicately weaving through tree branches to smartly arranged path lights illuminating garden walkways, Decorating Elves crafts outdoor lighting arrangements that enhance the beauty and functionality of any outdoor space.

Safety and Security

Outdoor lighting serves more than just aesthetic purposes; it also plays a significant role in ensuring safety and security. Adequately illuminated outdoor spaces reduce the risk of accidents, deterring potential intruders, and enhancing visibility during nighttime activities.

Decorating Elves’ expert lighting designs prioritize safety while adding a touch of elegance to outdoor areas, allowing clients to enjoy their outdoor spaces confidently at any time of day or night.

Energy Cost Savings

LED lights not only last longer but also save a substantial amount of energy, translating into significant cost savings in the long run. By utilizing LED lights in their outdoor lighting projects, Decorating Elves has not only been able to create stunning displays but also helped their clients save on energy bills, making the investment in LED lighting a financially wise choice.

Over the past 20 years in outdoor lighting, Decorating Elves has been synonymous with transforming outdoor spaces into enchanting realms with the magic of LED lights. Their commitment to using energy-efficient and long-lasting LED lights has not only contributed to the beauty of their creations but also to the well-being of the environment.

As we move towards a more sustainable and eco-conscious future, Decorating Elves continues to lead the way by proving that outdoor lighting can be both mesmerizing and environmentally responsible. With their expertise and dedication, we can expect to witness many more decades of outdoor lighting brilliance, making the world a brighter and more beautiful place, one LED light at a time.

09 Aug

Outdoor Lighting Ideas that Have a Big Impact

When you’re investing your hard earned cash into an outdoor lighting setup, you want the biggest bang for your buck. Today, we’ll be sharing some outdoor lighting ideas that pack a punch and will transform your outdoor spaces into attention grabbing scenes. If you’re going for an outdoor lighting vibe that shocks and awes, this is the blog post for you!

Entrance Lighting

Your home’s entrance is the first impression visitors get of your property. With a carefully planned lighting design, you can make it welcoming, impressive, and secure. Consider using lanterns or wall sconces to flank the door, or ground lights to illuminate the pathway leading to it. Add a spotlight or two to highlight any unique architectural features.

Pathway & Stair Lighting

Illuminate your walkways, garden paths, and stairways with strategically placed lights. Low-voltage path lights can outline the perimeter of a walkway or garden bed, while stairs can be safely lit for more secure navigation. Not only does pathway and stair lighting lead attention to your landscape features, it makes your property much safer for you, your family, and your guests.

Deck & Patio Lighting

Deck and patio areas can become magical spaces with the right lighting. String lights create a festive, cozy atmosphere while under-railing or under-bench lighting can provide subtle illumination that defines the space. For those with a pergola, consider installing an outdoor chandelier for an elegant touch.

Water Feature Lighting

If you’re fortunate to have a water feature like a pond, pool, or fountain, lighting it can create a stunning effect when lit up. Submersible lights in a pond can create beautiful reflections, while lighting around a pool can enhance safety and create a resort-like ambiance.

Accent Lighting for Architectural Features

Pergola with uplighting and downlighting examples Make your home’s unique architectural features stand out with accent lighting. Use uplighting for tall structures or trees, grazing to highlight texture and form, and downlighting for gentle, romantic effects. Remember, the key to successful accent lighting is subtlety and focusing on the most important elements.

Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue Lighting

If you’re an outdoor cook or love to host barbecues, good task lighting is essential. Consider installing adjustable lights to ensure you have the visibility needed for cooking and cleaning in outdoor cooking spaces. Accent lights can light up a custom-built brick barbecue or grill, enhancing its beauty and letting everyone know where to avoid it. Don’t forget to add proper lighting to the dining tables!

Fire Pit Lighting

Fire pits are magical places where stories are shared, and marshmallows are roasted. To enhance the fire pit experience, add soft lights around the perimeter. This provides just enough light to see without detracting from the glow of the fire. This also creates a defined line that should not be crossed for safety.

Garden Sculpture and Artwork Lighting

For some of us, our yards are like a blank canvas, waiting to be designed. Outdoor sculptures and artwork can bring us great joy…and can come at a great cost. Your expensive outdoor artwork deserves attention even after the sun goes down! Use spotlighting to highlight these pieces and to add drama to your outdoor space at night.

Create a Stunning Outdoor Lighting Design With Decorating Elves

Remember, outdoor lighting is an art as much as it is a science. With a blend of creativity and technical understanding, you can create a stunning effect that not only enhances the beauty of your property but also increases its security and functionality. At Decorating Elves in Tampa Bay, we aren’t afraid to experiment with different techniques and setups to create the outdoor lighting design of your dreams! Call us at 727-474-2628 to schedule a free lighting design consultation today.

04 Aug

Enter the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest and Win $100!

Unveiling Tampa Bay’s Finest Yards: Join the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest and Win Big!

Are you ready to witness the incredible beauty of Tampa Bay’s most breathtaking yards? Look no further! Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves proudly presents the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest, where local residents get a chance to showcase their creativity and win a fantastic prize of $100! Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a landscape design aficionado, or simply take pride in your outdoor space, this contest is the perfect opportunity to let your yard shine and be recognized as one of the best in the bay!

The Call to Gardeners and Homeowners:

Tampa Bay is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and stunning outdoor living areas. Now, we want to celebrate these extraordinary yards and the dedication of homeowners who transform their outdoor spaces into true havens. From beautiful flower beds to captivating lighting arrangements, from perfectly manicured lawns to charming patio setups, we are eager to witness the magic you’ve created right outside your home.

How to Participate:

Participating in the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest is simple and exciting. Follow these easy steps to showcase your masterpiece:

1. Capture the Magic: Take a high-resolution photograph of your beautifully decorated yard, highlighting its most remarkable features. Ensure the photo truly reflects the essence of your yard’s design and the effort you’ve put into making it special.

2. Like and Share: Visit Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves’s Facebook page and hit that “Like” button to show your support. Then, share the contest post with your friends, family, and neighbors, encouraging them to participate too. After all, the more, the merrier!

3. Visit the Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves Instagram profile and follow us to stay up to date on the contest and happenings! Feel free to share there too!

3. Submit Your Entry: Use this form to submit your info and photos (up to 3)!

The Judging Process:

Once the submission period ends on Aug. 31, our panel of expert judges at Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves will begin the tough but exhilarating task of reviewing each entry, then selecting the top 5. They’ll evaluate the entries based on creativity, originality, aesthetics, and how well the yard captures the essence of Tampa Bay’s natural beauty.

The Top 5 entries will be posted on Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves’s social media pages for popular vote from Sep. 1-7.

The Prize and Winner Announcement:

The winner of the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest will be announced Sep. 8 and receive a delightful reward of $100 in cash! What better way to celebrate your passion for gardening and decorating than with a little extra green to further enhance your outdoor oasis?

The announcement of the winner will be made on our social media pages and through direct contact with the lucky participant. Even if you don’t win, the recognition your yard receives through this contest will undoubtedly inspire others in the community to take up gardening and decorating, making Tampa Bay an even more beautiful place to live!

Spread the Joy:

Remember, this contest isn’t just about the prize—it’s about coming together as a community of gardeners and homeowners who share a love for beautiful yards and outdoor spaces. Encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to participate, and let’s make this contest a resounding success!

Are you ready to showcase your creative flair and earn the title of having the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay”? Embrace this opportunity to display your hard work and passion for gardening and decorating. Let the world see how you’ve turned your yard into a magnificent work of art!

Don’t wait too long! The submission deadline is approaching, so grab your cameras and get ready to share the wonder of your yard with the world. Tampa Bay is eagerly waiting to witness the beauty you’ve crafted just beyond your doorstep!

*Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official contest rules and regulations provided by Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves for full details on how to participate and win the “Best Yard in Tampa Bay” Contest.*

01 Aug

Designing Outdoor Lighting: A Step-By-Step Guide

Here at Decorating Elves, your trusted partner in designing outdoor lighting, we are renowned for our work in Tampa Bay, Florida. Today we want to share our expertise with you on a topic we hold dear – how to plan showstopping outdoor lighting. In this post, we’ll go over the steps you need to take to map out a lighting design that turns heads all over your neighborhood.

Evaluate Your Space

Start by taking a good look at your outdoor area. What are its unique features? Do you have a pool, a garden, a deck, or maybe a beautiful old oak tree? Identify areas that could benefit from illumination for safety, usability, and aesthetics. Additionally, consider potential obstacles such as rocks, pathways, walls, and vegetation that might affect your lighting layout.

Define Your Lighting Goals

Every lighting project begins with a purpose. Are you looking to enhance safety and security, set a specific mood, highlight architectural features, or a combination of these? Your goals will dictate the type of lighting fixtures and their positioning.

Sketch Your Lighting Plan

Armed with your goals and space assessment, sketch a simple plan of your area. Mark the locations where you intend to place lights and note down the type of fixture you envision. Use this plan to ensure you’re covering all the necessary areas and not overcrowding others. Remember, the best outdoor lighting setup not only illuminates your property but also reflects your personality. It’s all about creativity and functionality working hand in hand.

Choose the Right Fixtures

There’s a myriad of outdoor lighting fixtures available in the market, from spotlights and floodlights to wall lanterns and path lights. The right fixture depends on its intended purpose. Spotlights are perfect for highlighting features, while path lights improve visibility along walkways. When you go with a professional outdoor lighting company like Decorating Elves, you don’t have to worry about choosing the wrong fixture for the space since we handle all of these details for you!

Select the Correct Lighting Techniques

Outdoor lighting techniques can create different effects. Uplighting can make a tree or statue more dramatic. Wall washing can highlight the texture of a wall or a sculpture. Downlighting or moonlighting can mimic natural light for a gentle, romantic effect. Use a combination of these techniques to achieve your desired outcome. The experts here at Decorating Elves know all the tricks and techniques to emphasize your landscape’s assets.

Consider Energy Efficiency and Maintenance

LED lights are energy-efficient and durable, making them perfect for outdoor usage. They may have a higher upfront cost, but their longevity and lower energy consumption mean savings in the long run. Also, consider fixtures that are easy to clean and replace to minimize maintenance time and costs. We offer a no-hassle preventative maintenance plan for all of our customers that includes routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs – just contact us for more details.

Test Your Lighting

Before you make a permanent installation, do a temporary setup to see how everything looks. This “nighttime demo” allows you to adjust the intensity and positioning of your lights to achieve the perfect look. This test will also show you if you have any faulty fixtures or poor placements.

Install Your Lights

Once you’re happy with your plan, proceed to install your lights. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider hiring a professional if the installation involves complex wiring. Some outdoor lighting must be wired directly into your home’s electric system, so it’s better to hire someone to handle this if you’re not familiar.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Outdoor lighting requires regular maintenance to keep it in prime condition. This includes cleaning fixtures, replacing burnt-out bulbs, and ensuring the timers and sensors work correctly. Regular maintenance ensures your lighting continues to enhance your space beautifully and safely. Once again, we offer a no-hassle maintenance plan that covers all these bases to keep your outdoor lighting setup looking great all year long!

Let Decorating Elves Help With Your Outdoor Lighting Setup

Designing your outdoor lighting can be an exciting and fulfilling project, but if you need help along the way, remember that we at Decorating Elves are always ready to assist. Contact us today at 727-474-2628 to schedule a free consultation, and let’s create a lighting masterpiece in your outdoor space together!

24 Jul

Outdoor Lighting can Deter Pesky Bugs this Summer!

When it comes to illuminating our outdoor spaces, we often seek a perfect balance between creating an inviting ambiance and deterring pesky insects from crashing the party. While the choice of lighting color might not seem like a significant factor, opting for warm LED lights can surprisingly make a substantial difference in attracting fewer bugs compared to cool colors. In this blog post, we will explore the science behind insect behavior and shed light on why warm LED lighting can be your go-to choice for bug-friendly outdoor illumination.

bugs flying around blue light

Understanding Insect Attraction:

Before delving into the specific advantages of warm LED lighting, let’s briefly understand why insects are attracted to light in the first place. Many insects, including mosquitoes, are naturally drawn towards sources of light. This phenomenon, known as phototaxis, is believed to be an evolutionary response to their navigational systems, which rely on celestial cues for orientation. Insects use the moon and stars as their primary reference points, and when they encounter artificial light sources, they can become disoriented and confused, often resulting in their untimely demise.

Cool vs. Warm LED Lighting:

LED (Light Emitting Diode) lighting has revolutionized the lighting industry with its energy efficiency, durability, and versatility. LEDs come in various color temperatures, typically categorized as cool (higher color temperature) or warm (lower color temperature) lighting. Cool lighting appears bluish-white, similar to daylight, while warm lighting emits a softer, yellowish glow, resembling the warm hues of sunset.

Bug-Friendly Warm LED Lighting:

Contrary to popular belief, warm LED lighting is considered more bug-friendly compared to cool lighting options. Here’s why:

1. Reduced Blue Spectrum: Insects are particularly attracted to the blue spectrum of light, as it simulates their natural navigational cues. Cool LED lights emit a higher proportion of blue light, making them more enticing to bugs. Warm LED lights, on the other hand, have a reduced blue spectrum, which makes them less appealing to insects.

2. Longer Wavelengths: Warm LED lights have longer wavelengths compared to cool lights. Insects have different visual systems than humans and are more sensitive to shorter wavelengths, especially in the blue and ultraviolet range. By opting for warm LED lights, you minimize the wavelengths that insects find most attractive, resulting in fewer bugs swarming around your outdoor areas.

3. Outdoor Illumination: Warm LED lights create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your outdoor spaces. The gentle, yellowish glow mimics natural sources of light, such as fireflies and moonlight. This type of illumination can be more enjoyable for humans while being less disruptive to the insect population.

Tips for Using Warm LED Lighting Outdoors:

To make the most of warm LED lighting while minimizing insect attraction, we often install fixtures with the following in mind:

1. Positioning: Place warm LED lights away from gathering areas to divert insect activity. Illuminating pathways and perimeters can help guide guests while keeping pesky bugs at bay.

2. Shielding: Opt for fixtures that direct the light downward and are shielded to minimize light spillage. This technique focuses the illumination where it is needed while reducing the chances of attracting insects.

3. Motion Sensor Controls: Incorporate motion sensors into your outdoor lighting system. This way, lights only activate when movement is detected, reducing the overall duration of illumination and attracting fewer insects in the process.

Choosing warm LED lighting for your outdoor spaces is not only a stylish and inviting option but also a strategic move in creating an insect-friendly environment. By selecting warm lights with reduced blue spectrum and longer wavelengths, you can enjoy the benefits of outdoor illumination while minimizing unwanted bug guests. Remember to consider proper positioning, shielded fixtures, and motion sensor controls to optimize your bug-friendly outdoor lighting setup. Embrace the warmth of LED lighting and create an outdoor atmosphere that both you and your guests can relish, pesky bug-free.

Happy outdoor entertaining with Outdoor Lighting by Decorating Elves!

19 Jul

How Lanai Lighting can Enhance Your Outdoor Space!

As the warm breeze caresses your face and the sun dips below the horizon, transforming the sky into a canvas of vibrant colors, there’s no denying the allure of outdoor living spaces. A well-designed lanai, with its fusion of nature and comfort, offers an oasis for relaxation, entertainment, and the creation of lasting memories. To truly maximize the potential of your lanai, consider the transformative power of landscape lighting. By strategically illuminating your outdoor space, you can create an enchanting ambiance that invites both entertainment and enjoyment. Let’s explore the world of lanai lighting and discover how it can elevate your outdoor experience.

Setting the Mood with Ambience:

Lanai lighting serves as the magical touch that brings your outdoor space to life after dusk. By using a combination of soft and warm lighting, you can establish a captivating ambience that enhances the overall mood. Consider installing dimmable lights or adding a variety of fixtures, such as string lights, lanterns, and sconces, to create layers of light. This layered approach allows you to customize the lighting levels according to different occasions and personal preferences.

Highlighting Key Features:

Just as a painter brings attention to focal points in a masterpiece, well-placed lanai lighting can accentuate the unique features of your outdoor space. Highlighting architectural elements, such as columns, arches, and pergolas, can add depth and drama to your lanai. Additionally, illuminating water features, like fountains or pools, can create mesmerizing reflections and a sense of tranquility. By strategically placing lighting fixtures, you can transform your lanai into a work of art.

Safety and Security:

While aesthetics and ambience are crucial, safety should always remain a top priority. Lanai lighting not only ensures the safety of your guests by illuminating potential trip hazards, but it also acts as a deterrent to unwanted visitors. Well-lit outdoor spaces are less attractive to intruders and provide a greater sense of security. Incorporating motion sensor lights along pathways and entry points can further enhance safety while conserving energy.

Extending Your Living Space:

Your lanai can serve as an extension of your indoor living area, offering a seamless transition between the two spaces. With carefully placed lanai lighting, you can create a cohesive atmosphere that blurs the boundaries between indoors and outdoors.
By integrating lighting fixtures along walls, under eaves, or within built-in furniture, you can extend the functionality of your lanai and enjoy it well into the evening hours.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

Modern advancements in lighting technology have paved the way for energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions. LED (Light Emitting Diode) fixtures are an excellent choice for lanai lighting. They consume significantly less energy than traditional bulbs, reducing your carbon footprint and saving on electricity bills. Moreover, LED lights have an impressively long lifespan, ensuring you won’t have to constantly replace bulbs. Decorating Elves exclusively uses LED lighting for these reasons and more.

Lanai lighting has the power to transform your outdoor space into a captivating sanctuary, perfect for entertaining and relaxation. By carefully considering the ambience, accentuating key features, prioritizing safety, extending your living space, and embracing energy-efficient options, you can create an enchanting lanai that adds value to your home and enriches your outdoor experience. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, let lanai lighting illuminate your way to unforgettable moments. Call today to reserve your space on our designer’s calendar so we can create your custom home lighting stage.

11 Jul

Illuminating Water Features: Enhancing Outdoor Spaces

By illuminating water features, you can transform your garden or outdoor area into a mesmerizing oasis that comes alive at night. Creating a captivating and enchanting outdoor space goes beyond just selecting the right plants and furnishings. One often overlooked but incredibly effective way to enhance the beauty of your home’s landscape is through the thoughtful use of lighting design. Among the various elements that can be highlighted, water features hold a special place. In this blog, we will explore the art of illuminating water features with landscape lighting design, offering inspiration and practical tips to help you create a stunning ambiance.

Understanding the Power of Lighting

Lighting plays a vital role in transforming the aesthetics of any space. When it comes to water features, proper lighting can accentuate their beauty, create striking visual effects, and add a touch of drama. It can also provide functional illumination, ensuring safety and allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space even after sunset.

Highlighting Fountains and Waterfalls

Fountains and waterfalls are exquisite elements in any landscape design. By incorporating lighting, you can bring out their magnificence during the evening hours. Consider placing lights strategically to emphasize the movement and flow of water. Submerged lights or uplighting can be employed to cast shimmering reflections and create a magical effect.

landscape lighting pond

Underwater Lighting

For ponds, pools, or other water bodies, underwater lighting is an excellent choice. Submersible LED lights can be installed at the bottom of the water feature, providing a soft and ethereal glow. Experiment with different colors to achieve the desired ambiance. Cool blues and greens often evoke a tranquil and serene atmosphere, while warmer hues like oranges and yellows create a cozy and inviting feel.

Silhouette and Upward Lighting

Silhouette lighting involves placing lights behind or beside water features to create dramatic silhouettes against a dark backdrop. This technique can be particularly effective when accentuating statues, water spouts, or tall plants near the water. Upward lighting can also be used to cast soft illumination on surrounding trees or structures, lending a gentle glow to the water feature.

Pathway and Step Lighting

While highlighting the water feature itself is essential, it is equally important to consider the surrounding areas for safety and navigation purposes. By incorporating pathway and step lighting, you can create a well-lit route to the water feature, guiding visitors and preventing accidents. Low-voltage, energy-efficient LED lights are excellent options for this purpose, as they are both practical and visually appealing.

Smart Lighting Controls

To maximize the impact of your lighting design, consider investing in smart lighting controls. With these systems, you can program different lighting scenes, adjust brightness levels, and even synchronize the lighting with music or other atmospheric elements. This level of control allows you to create a truly immersive experience and adapt the lighting according to different occasions and moods.

Balancing Light and Darkness

Lastly, it is essential to strike a balance between light and darkness in your landscape. While illuminating water features can be captivating, remember to leave areas of shadow and mystery to enhance the overall aesthetic. Experiment with different lighting techniques and intensities until you achieve the desired effect.

Illuminating water features with landscape lighting design presents a fantastic opportunity to elevate the beauty of your outdoor space. By using a combination of techniques such as underwater lighting, silhouette lighting, and pathway lighting, you can create an enchanting ambiance that showcases the water feature’s elegance and brings your garden to life after sunset. Remember to consider the overall design, play with different lighting colors and intensities, and invest in smart lighting controls for added convenience. With the right lighting, you can transform your water features into captivating focal points, making your outdoor space a delightful sanctuary for relaxation and entertainment. Contact Decorating Elves’s design team today to create your dream oasis!

28 Jun

Enjoy Your Pool During the Summer Nights

Enjoy Your Pool During the Summer Nights with Outdoor Lighting

As the summer heat hits its peak, taking a refreshing dip is always a welcomed way to enjoy your pool. But why limit playtime in the pool to daylight hours? With the right outdoor lighting, you can transform your pool area into a captivating oasis that can be enjoyed well into the summer nights. At Decorating Elves, we specialize in residential outdoor lighting services that not only enhance the aesthetics of your property, but also provide added security and safety. In this post, we will explore the benefits of outdoor lighting around your pool and the various techniques we offer to create the perfect ambiance for your summer nights.

Extend Your Pool Time

Imagine lounging by your pool, sipping a cold drink, and gazing at the beautifully illuminated water. With our residential outdoor lighting solutions, you can extend the enjoyment of your pool beyond daylight hours. Whether you prefer a soft, romantic ambiance or a vibrant, energetic atmosphere, our expert designers will work closely with you to create a lighting plan that perfectly suits your preferences.

Enhance Safety and Security

Outdoor lighting not only adds charm to your pool area but also enhances safety and security. By eliminating dark hidden areas, well-placed lights can help prevent accidents and ensure that your family and guests can move around the pool safely. Additionally, a well-lit area deters criminal activity, providing you with peace of mind.

Types of Pool Lighting Techniques

At Decorating Elves, we offer a wide range of techniques to create stunning pool lighting effects, including:

Underwater Lighting: Illuminate your pool from within with underwater lights that create a captivating glow. These lights can be strategically placed to enhance the colors of the water, creating a mesmerizing visual experience.
Up Lighting: Install lights at the base of trees or architectural features surrounding your pool area to cast an upward beam of light, highlighting their beauty and creating a dramatic effect.
Pathway Lighting: Guide your way to the pool with elegantly placed pathway lights. These lights not only provide a safe path, but also add a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space.
Deck Lighting: Illuminate your pool deck with discreetly placed lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Deck lighting enhances the aesthetics of your pool area and ensures that your guests can move around comfortably.
Moon Lighting: Mimic is the soft glow of the moon with carefully positioned lights in trees or tall structures surrounding your pool area. This technique creates a magical, enchanting, and dare we say, romantic, atmosphere. Time to break out the champagne!

Enjoy Your Pool Day and Night This Summer

With summer in full swing, now is the perfect time to enhance your pool experience with outdoor lighting. At Decorating Elves, our team of outdoor lighting designers will work closely with you to understand your vision for your pool area and bring it to life. Whether you desire a resort-style look or something a little more funky, we have the skills and expertise to create an outdoor lighting solution that blows you away. Contact Decorating Elves today at 727-474-2628 for a complimentary lighting consultation and let us illuminate your summertime swims!