Think about material and colour ; for example , if your interiors exhibit industrial accents , adding rustic sconces and wall fixtures outside will create a unified feel throughout the space . The indoor lighting should also reflect the personality of the brand and so ensuring the outdoor lighting complements this , will also ensure a cohesive feel .
Use Lighting to Zone Seating Areas When creating outdoor lighting for hospitality venues , it ’ s important to think about both design and function . Consider how different parts of your outside space should be lit differently , such as a welllit patio that attracts guests for drinks , more formal dining areas which look great with statement pendants , or cosy , more intimate corners requiring softer atmospheric lighting . With the right setup , you can create zones for these different seating areas , with each one benefitting from the correct levels of illumination to create the perfect atmosphere . Experiment with different lighting temperatures to suit your theme , for example , warmer tones emit a cosier feel while cooler tones appear more contemporary .
Providing comfortable seating is so important in creating an enjoyable customer experience in any type of business setting . Investing in goodquality furnishings that are designed with comfort in mind can make customers more inclined to stay longer and revisit more often .
Image credit : The Stag at Stow
Take Care to Illuminate the Walkways Lighting up pathways leading to and from the building will not only create a sense of safety for your guests , but also provide a feeling of grandeur by guiding them through well-lit pathways . Guests appreciate being able to walk comfortably in the evening without worries of hidden obstacles in front of them .
Add to the Brand Value Installing outdoor lighting is also a great way to enhance curb appeal , ambiance , and aesthetics of commercial properties . It helps distinguish a business , so it gains an edge over similar companies in the neighbourhood . Outdoor lighting accentuates the most prominent features in the dark and helps catch eyes from far away on a busy street .
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It also contributes to promoting a business even on closing days .
Consider Sustainable and Energy-Saving Outdoor Lighting Options
When designing lighting for outdoor spaces , consider the sustainability of any choices . Customers are increasingly looking for more sustainable options and the hospitality industry can benefit by aligning with the viewpoints of their customers . There are several energysaving lighting solutions that can be explored when planning for outdoor areas ;
• Utilise LED lighting . This is an efficient way to reduce electricity bills and maintenance costs , as it uses 75 % less energy than traditional lighting sources .
• Choose quality fixtures . Opt for designs that are made to last and stand the test of time , ensuring they do not need replacing for many years .
• Install occupancy-based sensors . These detect movement and adjust lighting accordingly .
Taking advantage of these ecofriendly options can lead to significant cost savings in the long run .
Overall , thoughtful design that prioritises comfort , cosiness , and functionality will go a long way towards increasing customer satisfaction levels in your exterior business environment . By incorporating handcrafted lighting fixtures , quality materials like wood and stone , dimmer switch technology , vibrant colours , artwork that reinforces brand values , and comfortable furniture into your design concept , you can craft an atmosphere that will set your establishment apart from the competition , while providing guests with an enjoyable alfresco experience they ’ ll want to repeat over and over again .
Photographer : Joanna Kossak , Designer : Chris Harrington www . industville . co . uk
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