Dark patio needs lighting upgrade

It's so boring and we have no lighting except one bulb by the back door. We could so use a makeover. And we have family (an additional 10 people) coming to stay with us for a couple of weeks in July.

Design by Northwest Metalcraft

Budget: $2,000 or more

Patio is dark in the evening and can't be enjoyed.

Suggestions:

• There are various ways to address your lighting needs. Some electric lights from Tiab that provide an old-fashioned look while using incandescent lights. You place stakes in the ground around your patio for string lights to rest on. Old-fashioned string lights provide a good sense of ambience. Northwest Metalcraft carries several variations from which you could choose.

• With the additional purchase of an umbrella, a Vega Light clamps onto an umbrella pole and gives adequate light to the dining table.

• Gas or electric lights could be installed on the exterior wall of the house. However, homeowners must take into account the installation cost with such purchases. For a more unique solution to your lighting needs, gas fire bowls filled with American Fireglass installed on both stone pedestals on this patio could offer a unique and warm flare to your overall patio atmosphere.

• New cushions to your already existing patio furniture can give a refreshing look to your patio. Depending on usage, one may need to replace their outdoor cushions every few years while others can wait decades before they need to be replaced.