A guide to Hilton Head Island and Bluffton area real estate, rentals and lifestyle
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1000607
If you are like millions of other Americans, you are discovering that spending more vacation time at home can actually be fun. It can also save money, time and the headaches of traveling. If home vacations are in your future, rest assured it's easy–and not as expensive as you might think–to transform your existing patio, deck or pool area into a mini retreat you will love. When creating a resort-style backyard, you might think the place to begin is by adding costly designer patio furniture or lounge chairs that quickly lose their luster by the following season. However, investing in a good lighting scheme can actually enhance your existing furniture and amenities and create an evening "mood" that is relaxing and comfortable. Start by defi ning your priorities. Rather than illuminating everything in your yard, decide what areas you want to focus on like paths, seating and ornamental landscape. Perhaps you have a grand oak tree that is the centerpiece of your yard that you would like to highlight, or you need good lighting around your pool for evening swims. Generally, you should begin your lighting plan close to the house where most of the action is and move outward. It's also important to remember that a little light goes a long way. Too many lights are not cost effective and aren't necessary. A lighting professional can help you decide where to place your lights based on the effect you want to achieve. Creating a beautiful, well-lit landscape doesn't have to be expensive, and no lawn is too small. A few well- placed, low-voltage lights can have a huge impact on your landscape, and this type of lighting is inexpensive, safe and relatively easy to install. You can also add to it in the future if you start with a transformer that is large enough. If you plan to expand your lighting scheme at some point, choose a transformer that is two to three times the amount of wattage you need at fi rst. You will only pay for the energy consumed by the fi xtures you have installed, but you have the option to increase your usage as you add features, like a fountain or new fl ower bed. Nowadays, you have plenty options when choosing outdoor fi xtures. Taking cues from the design scheme of your indoor spaces, look for light fi xtures that support your home's style. Also, choose the best quality and well-constructed fi xtures that you can afford. Outdoor lighting can actually last for decades if you select quality products. If not, you may end up having to replace lights HOMEOWNERS ARE DISCOVERING HOW EASY IT IS TO CREATE A RESORT LIKE ATMOSPHERE IN THEIR OWN BACKYARDS. 48 Light up your landscape lowcountry | OUTDOOR LIGHTING PHOTOS PROVIDED BY NITELITES