Sometimes less is more, honestly. Too much lighting and you lose that cozy feel fast.
Funny you mention that—I've seen folks go all out with floodlights and it ends up feeling like a parking lot. I once swapped out a client’s harsh spotlights for some low-wattage sconces and a dimmer, and suddenly their backyard felt like a whole new space. Metal fixtures definitely hold up better, especially if you’re anywhere with wild temperature swings. Ever tried those vintage-style bulbs? They’re not for everyone, but they do add a nice touch against brick or wood.
Totally get what you mean about the floodlights—nothing says “relaxing evening” like feeling you’re under interrogation, right? I’m a big fan of those Edison-style bulbs too, especially for patios with a bit of wood grain showing. Ever notice how even just swapping cool white bulbs for warm ones can make a huge difference? Only thing is, I’ve had some of those “vintage” bulbs burn out way quicker than I’d hoped... maybe that’s just my luck. Anyone else find LED options don’t always nail the cozy vibe, or am I just picky?
Not sure I totally agree about LEDs missing the cozy mark—there are some decent ones out there now, especially if you play around with dimmers and color temps. I used to think they all looked kind of sterile, but after a bit of trial and error (and a few returns...), I found some “amber glow” LEDs that actually look pretty close to old-school bulbs. It’s not exactly candlelight, but it’s way less hassle than swapping out burnt filaments every season. Maybe it’s just about finding the right combo?
I hear you on the LED front—used to be a total skeptic myself. In my old place, I tried a bunch of “warm white” bulbs but they all felt a bit too clinical. The amber glow ones you mentioned really do make a difference, especially with a dimmer. For my porch, I actually layered string lights with a couple of vintage-style lanterns (battery candles inside), and that mix finally gave me the cozy vibe I wanted. Sometimes it’s less about the bulb and more about how you use them together, you know?
I get what you’re saying about mixing things up, but am I the only one who finds string lights a bit... overhyped? I tried them on my balcony and it ended up looking like a college dorm party gone wrong. Maybe I just have zero patience for untangling those things, or maybe my “artful draping” skills are lacking.
I actually went with just a couple of big, old-school lanterns (real candles—living dangerously, I know) and it somehow felt more intentional? But then again, my cat keeps trying to knock them over, so maybe there’s no winning here. Does anyone else feel like sometimes less is more with outdoor lighting, or am I just being lazy?
