The pool in the backyard of this Omaha home is the perfect place to be on these hot summer days. It was an ideal spot to add outdoor bistro string lighting to create a unique ambiance for those warm summer nights. The light sconces on the wall and illuminating the trees, installed in an earlier phase, increases nighttime safety and creates an aesthetically pleasing backdrop while also increasing security around the pool.
The Landscape Lighting Design
McKay Landscape Lighting designer, Andrew "A.J." Coleman, worked with the homeowners to install the landscape lighting design in phases as they have made renovations or additions to the exterior of their home. The latest phase included adding the bistro lights to transform the evening experience, provide a resort-like feel, and make a safer environment.
Outdoor Bistro String Lights Around the Pool
The bistro strands run the length of the west and south sides of the pool deck, both sets of strands start on either side of the pool house and end at custom steel posts in the landscape. We engineered the steel posts, altered their height to accommodate the open umbrellas during the day, and made them durable enough to withstand high winds.
Bistro lights are a great way to add light to any outdoor space with a festive, unique flair. They work well around pools, decks, patios, outdoor living, and dining or gathering areas.
Learn more about outdoor bistro string lights»
Lighting the Backyard Areas
The backyard has several tiered levels, the initial phases included installing the light sconces on the retaining walls, illuminating paths and steps, and uplighting the landscape. During this phase, Coleman said the homeowner's focus was to make the backyard safer and easier to navigate at night.
"The backyard has industrial artwork and details, so we left the steel posts unpainted, which will naturally rust over time. Also, instead of the traditional round bistro bulb, we used a longer, Edison bulb style. These design elements fit with the other characteristics in the space. We also increased the length between the bulbs and added a dimmer to allow for more control," Coleman says. "As you walk around at night, with the light sconces on the retaining walls and now bistro strings, it does a nice job of illuminating the whole area. The soft ambiance of the bistro lights complements the existing lighting around the pool."
Front Entrance Lighting
To create a warm and inviting front entrance, Coleman highlighted the front porch columns and added path lights to the front walkway. The home didn't need much additional illumination with the existing mini can lights. "We focused on the landscape, accenting the trees and natural stone wall to create balance and add interest to the yard," he says.
See more front entrance path lighting ideas»
Window Well Lighting
The front of the house has a unique basement window well with landscaping. Coleman says, "Adding mini light sconces on the wall helped improve security and enhance the aesthetics, so it's visually appealing as you look out the basement."
Looking to Enhance Your Property?
Our dedicated team at McKay Landscape Lighting works with you to create a custom landscape lighting design that's unique to your property. From design to installation to service, you can count on our team of experts to make sure you are happy with your lighting system for years to come.