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Create a Cozy Outdoor Scene with the Perfect Fountain

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There is nothing quite like spending an evening relaxing outside. The fresh air and the soothing breeze take you to a state of mind that could not be accurately described with words alone. Whether you’re reading one of your favorite books, spending quality time with loved ones, or taking an afternoon siesta, it’s always great to get a breath of fresh air. Do you have a place in your home where you can go to escape after a long work week? Create a cozy little space for relaxation in your own backyard. With the right frame, comfortable outdoor furniture, and a soothing water feature, you’ll be ready to transform your space.

Framing Your Space

One of the main elements that will define your cozy outdoor spot is the way you frame it. The main goal when framing a space like this is to create a sense of privacy without completely cutting you off from the outside world. A great choice for this kind of setting is to build a canopy with flowing outdoor curtains. This will allow you to relax in peace and still get those cool breezes. Another great way to accomplish this goal is to line the space with trellises and make a fence of beautiful vining plants. It is a great looking and natural way of setting the boundaries of your space.

Relaxing Outdoor Furniture

Once you’ve decided how you want to frame your space, your next main step is figuring out how to want to fill it. With the goal of having a cozy, relaxing oasis, be sure to opt for furniture that will provide you with maximum comfort. There are a wide range of outdoor sofas and chairs designed specifically for taking it easy. If you want to take it to the next level, get a few hammocks and create a center for relaxation. Find what’s right for you, then take a load off.

Soothing Outdoor Water Features

Installing a beautiful water feature in or around your newly designed space will be the icing on your relaxation cake. You will be able to complete your environment with the perfect fountain, spillway, or waterfall. The steady flowing sounds of the water will create a soothing soundtrack that mitigates unwanted noise and helps to reduce stress. There are a wide range of outdoor water features, and they come in all shapes and sizes. There is sure to be one to fit your space.

Make the most of your backyard, and take advantage of the beautiful days. Creating a cozy space where you can go to relax and enjoy the outdoors is a priceless investment that you will benefit you in many lasting ways. Reduce your stress and take a breath of fresh air. With the right canopy or fence, some comfortable furniture, and a soothing fountain, you’ll have a brand new space before you know it!

Maintaining Your Outdoor Fountain

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Outdoor fountains are loved by people all over the world, and they have been for very many years. The love of fountains has even grown to see fountains in people’s own backyards, creating a beautiful  personal environment. If you have a fountain at your home, you are aware of their many benefits. The beautiful visual, the soothing sounds, and the refreshing feeling are just a few. If you are familiar with these benefits, you may soon be aware of a few consequences if you don’t take proper care of your outdoor fountain. There are a few regular tasks you can do to be sure your fountain is clean and fresh.

Cleaning the Pump

Sometimes, people won’t notice the severity of the buildup in their fountain until it is too late. It is easy to forget that your fountain can begin to experience buildup and clogging before you see it. This is why cleaning your pump is so important. All of the water flows through the pump, and that can begin to take a toll on it. There are many times when the buildup begins there, unseen, and it only gets worse from there. Nip your problems in the bud with a regular cleaning of your fountain pump.

In-Depth Cleaning

Every so often, it would be wise to clean the entire fountain in depth. This may be a little time-consuming, but it is very worth it. You definitely don’t want a buildup of algae, hard water, and white scale in your fountain. To clean your fountain, be sure to turn it off and drain all the water with a pump of wet/dry vacuum. After the pond is off and drained, you’ll want to clean all of the separate pieces, including rinsing off any rocks or stones that may be a part of your fountain set up. Be sure to clean all of the fountain parts in depth, using fountain cleaning chemicals if necessary.

Fountain Chemicals

While there are products available to help you in during the cleaning process, there are also preventative chemicals that you can use for your fountain. There are many choices, and it’s important that you choose the right one. Household cleaners normally just won’t do the trick. Many of the fountain cleaners require that you simply add a small amount to your water supply. Once you do that, the chemicals will flow through all of the pieces of your fountain, keeping bacteria, algae, and hard water at bay.

Your outdoor fountain is the highlight of your outdoor environment. You want to make sure that it is in the best condition possible. A little maintenance is all you need. With regular pump cleaning and deep cleaning, along with the right fountain chemicals, your fountain will be in tip top shape!

Designing a Private and Secluded Outdoor Space

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With all of the distractions and stresses that come along with working, having a family, and just living everyday life, it’s nice to take some time out for yourself every once in a while. Private alone time is more valuable that people realize, and it’s a thing that many people often take for granted. Don’t allow yourself to be one of those people. Be sure that you take time out to relax and center yourself whenever you need a break. A great place to relax is a secluded outdoor environment. Create an environment like this in your own home with a type of fence or wall, the right outdoor furniture, and a soothing fountain or spillway.

Setting Your Boundaries

To create a place of seclusion and privacy, there must be boundaries. There are several options and styles available for you to keep your scene separate from the outside world. You can choose to have a privacy fence installed if you would like to separate your entire yard. If you are looking to create a small location within the confines of your yard, you can choose to install a few trellises around your space and grow vines on them, making them more like walls. You can even use chain link fence, which is fairly inexpensive, and improve the look with vines.

Outdoor Furniture

A necessary component in your outdoor relaxation space is furniture. After all, how else will you truly be able to relax with nothing on which you can relax? With all of the choices out there, it can be hard to narrow it down. A good place to start is by considering how you’ll be spending your time there. If you’ll be sharing your space with loved ones and close friends, you may opt for outdoor seating and a table to accommodate 2-4 people. If you’re going to be spending time there alone in full relaxation mode, you can even consider installing a hammock in your space.

Fountains and Spillways

One of the best things you can do to create a space that is soothing and secluded is by installing a fountain or other water feature. The right water feature will create a relaxing and steady sound with the flowing of the water. This sound is not only relaxing, but it helps to mitigate unwanted noise surrounding to place of privacy. If you live on a busy street, or in an active neighborhood, this can be a definite life-saver. With all of the many styles of fountains, ponds, and spillways, there is sure to be something to fit perfectly in your scene.

Take some time out  for yourself. Many people miss out on valuable lessons that can only be learned when spending time alone in a calm environment. And, sometimes, you just need to get away. Create a space where you can do just that. With the appropriate boundaries, the right outdoor furniture, and a soothing water feature, you can have the perfect secluded and private outdoor area.

Build a Natural-Looking Outdoor Setting

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The weather has finally broken, and many people are beginning to take on those outdoor projects they had been fantasizing about all winter. When it comes to redesigning your outdoor space, there are endless possibilities to choose from, and a wide selection of accessories to help you create your vision. Sometimes these choices can be overwhelming. With all of the different types of fountains and water features, some people find it hard to settle on a single theme. One of the best themes you can choose is a scene that simply accentuates the beauty that exists in nature. With the right waterfall or pond, a collection to beautiful wildflowers and plants, and a couple of stone benches, you’ll be ready to create the perfect natural setting.

Waterfalls or Ponds

When it comes to choosing which type of fountain or water feature to use in your outdoor environment, a waterfall or pond is best for the person looking to evoke a natural feeling. What better way to accentuate the beauty of nature than recreating processes that occur naturally. There are a wide range of waterfall and pond kits to get you started. You can choose from many styles and sizes. If you are looking to make a major installation, contact your local professional. There are plenty of dedicated people out there who are willing to help you create your vision.

Wildflowers and Plants

One of the most enjoyable things about having outdoor space at your disposal is the possibility of growing your own plant life. Many people enjoy growing vegetables and herbs, while some people enjoy the simple gratification of growing a bed of flowers. When deciding on plants for your natural scene, remember to keep it simple, but diverse. Choose a collection of some of your favorite flowers and greenery, and plant them in a seemingly random design. To create that all-natural scene, some people even mix seeds and allow plants to grow where they may. The trick is to not be too precise. Mother Nature will help you along the way.

Stone Benches

To better enjoy the time spent in your newly built home oasis, it would be beneficial to have seating for you and your guests. While there are a wide range of outdoor furniture and seating options, not all would complement a more natural-looking setting. If you are looking for something that will accent your outdoor scene, opt for classic stone furniture. There are a wide range of benches, stools, and tables made from quality stone, such as granite, jade, marble and more.

When it comes to cultivating the perfect scene, don’t let the endless options send you into a fit of frustration. If you enjoy being outdoors for the simple fact that it’s the outdoors, decide to build a scene that accentuates those properties. With the right water feature, greenery, and stone furniture, your natural oasis will be complete in no time!

Low-Maintenance Tips for the Busy or Lazy Gardener

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Gardening is a very rewarding activity. But, it can also be very time consuming. To some people, gardening is reserved for retired women who enjoy their golden years taking taking care of flowers and herbs. They believe that the rest of us couldn’t possibly find the time to devote to being responsible for maintaining life. But, these people are truly mistaken. There are options out there for those of on a strict time budget who still would love to have a bit of extra life in their homes. To build the perfect low-maintenance garden, use planters instead of your yard, grow low-maintenance succulents, and confine your garden to a small space.

Planters

One of the most time-consuming and involved aspects of building a garden is preparing the location. For many people, that includes, tilling, digging, fertilizing, and more. The process of preparing your soil for growth is an entire project on its own. You can skip this process entirely by opting to grow your plants in containers instead of in the ground. This way, you can set up your garden in no time. You can simply organize your planters however you’d like, fill them with fertile soil, and begin the planting process.

Succulents

When it’s time for the planting process, you must decide which plants you would like to grow in your garden. This is another thing that discourages the busy gardener. Many people believe that growing plants is a high maintenance, time-consuming task. For some, this is true. But, it doesn’t have to be that way for everyone. For the gardener with limited time and resources, succulents are a great family of plants to choose from. Cacti are a type of succulent, but don’t let that lead you to believe that they are not beautiful. There are many different variations of succulents, growing in many colors, shapes, and sizes. They require little water and maintenance, and look wonderful in an outdoor setting.

Limit Your Space

Sometimes, when growing a garden, people often get a bit too excited. They pick a huge location in the yard and plan to grow every little thing that piques their interest. This seems fun at first, but it can quickly become extremely overwhelming. Be sure to avoid this issue and save yourself plenty of time and frustration. When planning your garden, deliberately limit your available. You may even want to place you planters on a balcony or patio. This will ensure that you save time setting up and maintaining your new garden.

Gardening isn’t just for the people who have the whole day at their disposal. Some of us have busy lives, but would also enjoy having a little plant life around to keep the energy fresh in our homes. There are options for the busy or lazy gardener. If you use planters, grow succulents, and limit your growing area, you’ll hardly have to do any work to have your garden.

The Perfect Setting for Summer Nights

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Summer is a wonderful season. Full of life and activity, this time of year brings us the types of days we live for. There is nothing quite like relaxing during the summer, when the air is warm and the breezes rejuvenating. One of the very best feelings is the bliss of a summer night. The sun sets, the air begins to cool, and the night welcomes your with a soothing embrace. It just doesn’t get much better than that. Create a setting in your home where you can enjoy your summer nights, and enjoy the benefits that come along with installing LED lighting in your landscape.

Extended Outdoor Activity

Sometimes friendly conversations can carry on for hours on end. Sometimes they even carry into the night. Don’t let your growing evening discussion be cut short by a setting sun, and don’t allow the night to force you inside. Create a setting that allows you to enjoy your outdoor space even after the sun sets. With a little lighting you can bring the life right back to your scene. The illumination will make for a seamless transition from day to night. So, don’t worry about finishing up your outdoor activity before sunset; enjoy your summer nights.

Safety and Security

With LED lighting, you’ll enjoy your outdoor time, and you’ll enjoy it safely. The presence of lighting around your home is a great choice for safety and security purposes. With the ability to illuminate outdoor staircases and walkways, you will tremendously decrease the chances of a person taking a spill from lack of visibility. You will also be able to enjoy a more secure home environment. Prowlers, burglars, and other unwelcome visitors who would prefer not to be seen will be deterred by a home that is well-lit.

Landscaping and Style

Not only will you be able to experience more outdoor time, and ensure that that time is safe, but you will be able to do it in style. When it comes to landscaping and exterior design, one of the best things you can do for your landscape is install LED lighting. If you have a fountain or other outdoor water feature in your scene, there are water resistant lighting kits that add an entirely new dynamic to your water display. You can also accent walls, paths, and seating areas with lights that come in a plethora of colors. There are also color changing lighting options available so you can fine tune your scene each night!

The summer nights won’t always be around, so be sure that you’re prepared to get the most out of your outdoor scene. The installation of a few LED landscape lighting accents will bring your setting to life. You’ll be able to enjoy more time outdoors, do it safely, and in a classy and stylish environment. Your summer just got a lot better.

Revitalizing a Neglected Yard

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Have you allowed your backyard to become riddled with weeds and grow too far? Perhaps you’ve recently acquired a property with a yard that hasn’t been tended to in some time. Whatever the cause, looking out into that miniature jungle can seem overwhelming. Bringing the life and beauty to an overgrown and neglected yard is a lot of work that requires time and organization. Focusing on one thing at a time will make your work go a lot smoother, and much quicker than you would have expected. Focus first on cleaning and landscaping, then landscape enhancements, like ponds or waterfalls, and finally, plants and gardening.

Clear Your Space

Bringing the life back to a neglected yard can take quite a bit of time, and is definitely not a single afternoon’s work. The first section of your time should be spent ridding the area of any weeds and unwanted growth in the area. Some of the tougher and larger weeds that have been growing for some time now may require the use of various types of gardening tools. Assess your growth to decide which tools you may need. If you aren’t sure, ask a more experienced friend or neighbor, or consult a local hardware professional.

Outdoor Water Features

Once your space is clear and the grass is mowed, you will have a blank slate to build upon. This is where the design process begins. Start by deciding which outdoor style you would prefer, and find a fountain or water feature to fit your scene. A beautiful tiered fountain is a perfect classic touch, while a waterfall or pond complements the beauty of nature, and a sleek spillway accentuates modern style. Be sure to find to perfect place to install your choice; some of these require major changes to your landscape.

Plant Enhancements

After you’ve been able to clear out your space and change the major characteristics of the scene, it’s time to add the final touches with perfectly placed plants and flowers to accent the outdoor scene you’ve created. It is a great way of adding an extra sense of energy to your space. Choose you favorite greenery to frame your water feature, or accent your patio space by growing in planters and urns. If you have more of a green thumb, you can even utilize the space to build your own little vegetable or herb garden. If not, there are lots of low-maintenance plants that require minimal water and attention.

Don’t let the condition of your outdoor space discourage you. Any place can be brought back to life if attention is paid to the right details and you are willing to put in the required work. It just takes a little effort and care. After you’ve cleared your space of weeds and unwanted growth, you can install beautiful water features and grow thriving greenery. Make the most of your outdoor space!

Create a Contemporary Outdoor Scene

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The 21st century is upon us, and while some people enjoy the feelings of tradition and nostalgia, some of us are ready to take on the future with new styles and new habits. These ideas are present even when designing your landscape and installing a water feature. There are a wide range of styles, designs, and materials that evoke feelings of the old world, the new world, and the natural world. If you are one of the people who embrace contemporary styles, there are a few elements that would definitely come in handy for your outdoor design. The best water feature options are spillways and contemporary standalone fountains, and you can accent your scene with LED lighting and simple stone planters.

Water Feature Options

If you’re going after a modern look, the two main types of water features for you are spillways and contemporary statuary fountains. Spillways create a sleek and smooth sheet of water that flows into a basin below. The shapes created by the water are perfect for the simple, modern scene. There are also many styles of statuary fountains that evoke a similar feel. They come in a wide range of unique designs that must be seen to be fully comprehended. They take a more artistic approach to the contemporary setting, and serve as the perfect new age accent.

LED Lighting

A great way to enhance the look and feel of a modern outdoor environment is by installing LED lighting in your water features and landscape. There are lights that can illuminate the sheet of water flowing from your spillways, giving them an even more stunning effect. You can also use small lights to brighten stairs, walkways, and to accent the texture of walls. There are many different colors of lights, and some are even color changing. With these lights you can create the perfect modern nighttime scene.

Stone Planters

Something that is not often brought in a conversation of modern styles is the presence of plant life. But, we are discussing the plans for an outdoor scene, after all. Your scene doesn’t have to be overgrown with plants and greenery, but a few lively accents can add the perfect touch. The best way to make these accents is with the use of simple stone planters. Choose designs that are smooth and simple, that won’t take away from your contemporary style. Put in basic plants, that are mainly green and not too colorful. The essence of modern style is simplicity.

Embrace the times as they change, and be willing to change along with them. Create a scene in your landscape that evokes the feeling of the current age. With sleek spillways or contemporary fountains, LED lighting, and simple plant accents, your outdoor space will be the perfect example of natural progression.

 

How a Pond Fountain Will Add to Your Landscape Design

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Water Feature Pros loves to work with landscapers and be a part of large scale design projects. A type of fountain that we recommend would be a lake fountain. Lake fountains add a floating or diffused element to man-made or natural bodies of water. If you are designing for a place that already has a pond or lake, then a lake fountain will add much to your entire project.

A lake fountain keeps the water looking great

An aeration device will make sure your natural or man-made lake looks great at all times. Aeration is very important in multiple ways. Dissolved oxygen needs to be present throughout the lake so that the fish can live off of it. Also, aeration keeps the water from becoming stagnant. We all know stagnation is a terrible thing and symbolizes death and decay. I’m sure you do not want that. Stagnation works to destroy bodies of water in another way. Unwanted algae or other vegetation growth will prosper if the pond or lake becomes stagnant. Your client will appreciate how their lake area always looks pristine.

Add a spectacular sight to your lake

High powered water works will represent your amazing water feature. You can buy your pump at whatever horse power suits your lake. A typical statuary fountain flows with gravity, but lake fountains send water skyrocketing, keeping your client’s head high and expression amazed.

The flow pattern

Other than sheer power, lake fountains have varying flow patterns. These patterns have multiple streams which bend in varying degrees. Our online catalog features the different lake fountains according to their flow patterns.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for all outdoor landscaping in our opinion. Lighting insures that your clients will not be bored with their outdoor space once the sun has gone down. Actually, lighting should add an element that will encourage the clients to stand outside and watch the light show that their lake fountain can give them. For the price, it is certainly a worthwhile investment. Lights are often times interchangeable and can be turned off as need be.

Other things to consider

Lake fountains can be either floating or diffused. Floating lake fountains obviously float and pump only the top two feet of the lake. These fountains are appropriate for shallow lakes. Diffused lake fountains have an element that can gather water that is deep in the lake.

Build a Beautiful Outdoor Room

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When the spring and summer come around, nobody wants to spend their time cooped inside all day. When the sun is shining and the air is warm, it’s exhilarating to simply be outside breathing the fresh air. When dinner time comes around, many families find themselves eating the meal inside at the dining room table. But, in the summer time, it’s much more pleasing to enjoy your dinner outside. Create a space outside your home where you can enjoy the benefits of fresh air in a comfortable, secluded space. To build the perfect outdoor room, choose a material for a privacy barrier, install outdoor furniture, and accent the space with an outdoor water feature.

Privacy

To begin building your room, you must first choose the space and separate it from the rest of the yard. There are several ways you can go about creating this separation. One way to go is outdoor curtains. You can build or install a gazebo to fit around your space and drape beautiful curtains that will flow gently in the breeze and keep your space cozy and private. Another beautiful choice is a trellis with vining plants. Using a trellis instead of a fence is a great way to instill privacy with a touch of class and style.

Outdoor Furniture

The furniture you choose for your outdoor room is extremely important. It all depends on how you plan on using your space. If it is to be a place of socializing, search for a couple of outdoor couches and extra seating to accommodate all of your guests. If you plan on designing it primarily as an outdoor dining area, then a table set is your clear choice. There are many different styles and sizes of sets, allowing you have a small intimate dinner, or host an entire dinner party.

Outdoor Fountain

To accent and complement the look and feel of your beautiful outdoor scene, you can install a soothing outdoor fountain. It will mitigate undesired noise, and create a sense of serenity in your space. There are a wide range of fountains and water features to choose from. You can pick a classy and elegant tiered fountain to add a classic touch, or maybe a contemporary artistic piece. You can even install a sleek spillway to add a stylish and modern touch. There are so many options, you just have to find the one that fits your style.

Find ways to enjoy as much of the beautiful weather as you can. Building an outdoor extension to your home can help you do just that. An outdoor room is great for hosting, relaxing, dining, and more. With the perfect barriers, outdoor furniture, and fountain, your new space will be the best place in your home.

Create the Ideal Patio Setting

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When old man winter has blown his last frigid breath, there is no better feeling than emerging from hibernation to feel the warmth of the sun. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the warm breezes are calling us to experience it all. Do you have an ideal location in your home to relax and enjoy the beautiful days? Be sure to make the most of your patio space. It will become a location that you will cherish. With the right selection of patio furniture, an assortment of live plants, and a perfectly-placed water feature, you can be certain that your patio is perfect for you and your guests.

Patio Furniture

Finding the right furniture for your patio is a very important process. There are so many styles and options, it can be hard to find exactly what you need. Before going out to make a purchase, begin by predicting how you will be spending most of your outdoor time. Some furniture is better for hosting, some is better for dining, and some is best for relaxation. Next, consider your outdoor climate and which materials are best suited for your area. If rain is very common in your area, you may want to avoid outdoor furniture is cushions and other absorbent materials. Finally, find a set of furniture that fits in your allotted space, and create a scene that fits your setting.

Plants, Planters, and Urns

One major mistake that people encounter when designing their patio scene is allowing the space to remain plain and lifeless. Your outdoor space should reflect the beauty and energy that is found in nature. The installation of a few stone planters is a great way to achieve this effect. They are works of art themselves, and also allow you to display some of your favorite flowers and greenery. The presence of living plants will bring a fresh new energy to your patio space.

Outdoor Water Features

Another great way to maintain a refreshing energy is by installing the right water feature for your home. There are a wide range of options available to you. A classic tiered fountain is perfect for accentuating an elegant and refined style. A sleek spillway is more desirable for some people. It creates a contemporary look with a smooth sheet of water splashing gently into a basin below. Any of your water features can be enhanced with LED lighting to take your scene to the next level. Be sure to choose a piece that reflects the style and feel of you and your home.

You patio space should complement your home; it should be an extension of your interests and personality. Create the perfect scene that caters to exactly how you like to spend your time. With the appropriate patio furniture, the presence of a few lively plants, and the addition of a perfectly placed water feature, your patio space can become an ideal backyard oasis.

Simple Outdoor Enhancements with Grand Results

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Has the time come for you to redesign your backyard or patio space? There are endless possibilities that are available to you. But, when you are making your design choices, remember the old phrase, “less is more.” You definitely don’t want to go overboard in with your renovation. Don’t forget to allow your space to speak for itself by installing simple accents and enhancements that will lead to noticeable results. The perfect placement of planters and greenery, the installation of a sleek spillway, and the presence of a little landscape and water lighting can transform your space into the perfect backyard oasis.

Planters and Greenery

A great place to start when deciding what to do is considering the installation of a few planters and some of your favorite flowers or greenery to accent the scene. There are a wide range of colors, styles, and designs of planters available. There is something for every type of outdoor setting. This type of installation is the perfect accent; it fits so naturally with an outdoor setting that it is nearly unnoticeable, yet, without it, your space can feel dull and lifeless with no explanation.

Sleek Spillways

A more obvious accent that you can consider is a simple spillway in your patio space. Spillways produce a constant smooth sheet of water that gently flows into a basin below. They are a great way of adding an extra element of life and energy to your outdoor scene. With proper placement, your spillway will look as if it belongs in your patio space. It will contribute to a soothing atmosphere with its steady, soothing flowing sounds, but is calm enough to not be too overwhelming.

LED Light Accents

A great, and often overlooked, accent that you can utilize in your outdoor space is LED lighting. Light is such a simple thing that there are times when people don’t even give it a thought. But, with the right installation, some simple lighting choices can completely transform a scene. You can enhance your whole outdoor scene with illuminated walls, stairs, and pathways. You can even install  lighting in your spillway for an even more stunning effect. There are many colors of lights, and even color changing options to help you get your scene just right.

Your patio space can be the perfect outdoor oasis, and you don’t have to make huge changes to accomplish this. With the installation of a few planters and greenery, a sleek spillway, and a few LED lighting accents, you can easily transform your scene. Make the simple steps to complete your scene!