Outdoor Lighting Ideas
We love hosting outdoor parties and BBQs when the weather is warm. On Long Island, summer isn’t complete without a few BBQs and garden parties in our yards. Outdoor lighting will keep the party rolling after the sun goes down. Here are a few outdoor lighting ideas for the season:
Candles
The classic choice for an outdoor dinner party, candles are a beautiful way to add a splash of ambience and glow to your event. Whether they’re votives, tea lights, or in a candelabra, candles are the perfect table accessory. Don’t forget a citronella candle to keep the mosquitoes away! Love this one from H.Potter.
Outdoor Patio Heaters
When nights get chilly, an outdoor patio heater will keep everyone warm and toasty! You can purchase these either free standing or wall mounted and are a wonderful addition to your outdoor kitchen and dining experience.
Fake Candles
While the real deal is beautiful (and usually smell great), they can be a fire hazard or a breeze can take them out. Fake battery-powered candles can serve up the same ambience without the hassle.
Hanging Lights
If you have a low-hanging branch or beam in your yard, an outdoor chandelier is a really cool way to brighten up your outdoor space. Budget friendly outdoor chandeliers can be easily found online, or you can DIY!
Lanterns
Paper or nylon lanterns are a beautiful way to add lighting to your backyard. Classic white gives a clean, modern look, or opt for multicolored or patterned lanterns for a splash of color! We also love the classic metal lanterns that can be easily found online, and are perfect for a home by the beach.
Luminarias
A cousin of the lantern, luminarias are made from weighted paper bags and can be placed on tables, stoops, or shelves. They’re also really fun to DIY, especially with kids! Here’s a great how-to. (Image: Safe Paper Bag Luminaries)
Solar Powered Landscape Lights
If you have walkways and a beautiful garden, landscape lights can help guests navigate and admire your yard. Solar powered lights are super low-maintenance, only requiring optimal placement for decent sunlight!
String Lights
Another classic porch-and-yard accessory, string lights can be used really creatively, purchased for very little, and (if made for outdoors), will withstand summer showers. We’ve seen string lights strung on banisters, around trees, or mounted on fences.
Tiki Torches
Tiki torches are perfect for a summer BBQ! They’re a ton of fun and are sure to give your yard a festive glow. They can also be purchased with citronella to limit the bugs at your party.
Ceiling Mount
If you have a covered outdoor space, a more expensive (but more permanent) option is a ceiling-mounted lighting system. We love ceiling lights with a fan for those humid days that require a little man-powered breeze.
Wishing you a happy summer and hope you can utilize some of these creative outdoor lighting ideas. If we can help with your indoor or outdoor kitchen Long Island, NYC or in the Hamptons — call us at 516-746-3435 and visit Kitchen Designs by Ken Kelly Long Island showroom today! Summer is one of the best times for a kitchen remodel.
