Lighting is a key component of curb appeal
Ahome lit up at night helps increase its curb appeal . Curb appeal can affect prospective buyers ’ perception of a home . When addressing curb appeal , homeowners may be inclined to focus on features that are easily seen from the street during the day . But what can a homeowner do to improve on his or her home ’ s nighttime aesthetic ?
Outdoor lighting is one aspect of curb appeal that is often overlooked , advises the home improvement experts at The Spruce . Homeowners may fail to recognize the importance of how proper illumination can provide their homes with a warm glow and make it look beautiful after the sun has set . For example , think of how cozy and inviting neighborhoods appear during the holiday season when homes are strung with twinkling lights . Homeowners can replicate that look all year long with lighting elements .
Lighting for evening hours also helps maintain a safe environment for people who are visiting the property . Illuminating walkways and doorways provides a clearly visible and safe path to and from the home .
The following are a few ways to improve outdoor lighting :
· Focus on architectural features . Outdoor lighting can focus on the external features of the home ’ s architectural style . Use light to draw attention to interesting gables , dramatic roof lines , dormers , or curved entryways .
· Play up landscaping . Stylish lighting can highlight trees , shrubs , pathways , gardens , and all of the elements of softscapes and hardscapes on a property . The lighting experts at Vernon Daniel Associates say that soft lighting can make homes feel warm and cozy . Uplighting trees or other elements can add a dramatic effect .
· Light up all doors . Make sure that doors , both entry and garage , are properly lit for ease of entry and egress from the home . Safety . com , a home and personal security resource , says a home burglary occurs every 15 seconds in the United States . Installing motion-activated lights or lights on timers can deter break-ins . Consider using home automation to control porch lights and other outdoor lights remotely , if necessary .
· Create entertaining areas . Outdoor lighting can be used to extend the hours residents can spend outside . This is great for entertaining and can be an excellent selling point .
Homeowners are urged not to overlook outdoor lighting as a vital part of their plan to improve curb appeal . n
42 February | March 2022 Thomasville Scene