night-light

Lighting + Audio: The Future of Outdoor Living

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 14:54:48 GMT

As outdoor spaces increasingly become year-round extensions of the home, integrated lighting and audio set the stage for effortless gatherings.

One of the first questions we ask clients when crafting a new design is simple: How do you use your outdoor space?

The answers are often aspirational. Clients describe evenings spent entertaining friends, quiet mornings with coffee on the patio, or family dinners that stretch long past sunset. Many times, those experiences exist more as a vision than a current reality.

At Night Light, our role is to design around that vision.

Our focus has always been to create atmosphere that enhances how a space feels rather than drawing attention to the equipment that makes it possible. When lighting is done correctly, the fixtures disappear and the environment comes alive.

Recently, we have expanded that same philosophy into a natural companion: outdoor audio systems .

Lighting shapes what you see.

Audio shapes what you feel.

Together, they transform a space.

Outdoor audio has evolved dramatically in recent years. Today’s systems use discreet speakers and subwoofers that blend seamlessly into the landscape, distributing sound evenly across the property instead of blasting music from a single location. The result is immersive, balanced sound that enhances conversation and ambiance rather than overpowering it.

Just like with lighting, our goal is to make the experience the focal point—not the fixtures .

Our team approaches audio installations with the same expertise that has defined our lighting work for decades. As experienced electrical contractors, we’ve spent years refining best practices for integrating electrical systems into complex outdoor environments. Whether we’re working within an established landscape or coordinating during construction, we understand how to thoughtfully route power, conceal wiring, and protect the integrity of the surrounding landscape and hardscape.

That experience becomes especially valuable when lighting and audio systems are designed together from the beginning .

When integrated properly, the two systems complement each other seamlessly. Lighting defines the visual rhythm of the space while audio adds another sensory layer that deepens the atmosphere. With modern controls, homeowners can easily manage both elements.

The result is an outdoor environment that feels intentional, immersive, and effortless to use.

Read more about our audio systems here .

Request a design here .

Enjoy The Little Things

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 17:04:23 GMT

It’s hard to believe another season is coming to a close. November is a month of change. Trees change color and lose their foliage, temperatures drop below freezing forcing our plants to hibernate, and daylight hours minimize the daytime spent outdoors. We prepare our outdoor living spaces by cutting back perennials, storing outdoor furniture, and tucking away flower pots and garden hoses.

Before long, the thoughts of winter will occupy our surroundings. Nonetheless, our Midwest winters can still provide joy and serenity as we awake after a freshly fallen overnight snowfall. Those of us with the energy and ambition are busy planning ice skating outings, downhill sledding, and skiing trips, and maybe even an ice fishing excursion. A simple stroll in the woods can satisfy even the slightest case of “winter blues”.

“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”

– Robert Brault

Make the time this season to enjoy what Mother Nature provides. The beauty and peacefulness can be breathtaking. As our outdoor living time is reduced this winter, focus more on relationships with family and friends. Take the time today to reach out to those your care for most. Be grateful for today and enjoy the little things.

– A Hinsdale Residence

Toasty Marshmallow Evenings

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:00:34 GMT

Our daytime hours began to decline at the summer solstice back in June, but the onset of Autumn and the fall equinox really makes us take notice that the hours of daylight are rapidly declining each day. In fact, from the fall equinox on, the night-sky time will last longer than the daylight time until the next vernal equinox. We’ll keep gaining dark sky viewing time until the winter solstice on December 21 ^st .

Don’t let these shorter days and cooler temperatures spoil your outdoor living fun. Some of the best times are yet to be had this fall as we gather outdoors with family and friends. There is an inherent desire to gather even more outdoors as we regroup and reconnect after the Covid pandemic. Social distancing and outdoor gatherings have become the norm in our neighborhoods and communities.

“It’s the first day of autumn! A time of hot chocolatey mornings, and toasty marshmallow evenings, and, best of all, leaping into leaves!”

-Winnie The Pooh, Pooh’s Grand Adventure

Is your outdoor living area configured for entertaining after dark? One of the many outdoor improvements emerging includes the installation or construction of fire pits and fire tables. There are countless options available that will introduce a warm, mesmerizing fire element to your space. From simple fire bowls, to prefabricated self-contained fire tables, to elaborate custom fire pits, an element of fire sets the mood and becomes the focal point for your next gathering after dark.

Consider adding a fire element to your outdoor living area yet this year. If your project entails construction or design, we can recommend a company to help you create the perfect environment for perfectly toasted marshmallows on crisp fall nights.

Click HERE to access our inquiry page.

Are You Ready For Some…

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 15:55:08 GMT

Cooler temperatures, shorter days, back to school, and football fever signal the beginning of Autumn and a reduced focus on outdoor living. But before you fire up that snow blower, let’s enjoy the crisp autumn evenings gathered around the fire pit rooting for your favorite team and recalling this past summer. Fall is a great time to put plans in place for your outdoor space and prepare for the seasons to come.

Did you know that the fall season is the best time to renovate and overseed your lawn in the Midwest? Our cool season grasses germinate well with our fall temperatures and average rainfalls. In addition to overseeding, core aeration is most effective in the fall as well. Many of our lawns struggled this year with a lack of normal rainfall. Act now to rejuvenate your lawn before the window closes.

Have you been dreaming about a new patio or pergola? Is it time to put in that family swimming pool you’ve been saving for? Are you ready for some football viewing enjoyment around your new outdoor kitchen? Night Light is proud to work with a premier group of contractors and designers that specialize in your outdoor living needs. Click on any of the links listed below for a recommendation from us.

One final thought revolves around shorter days and longer nights. Our lighting design and installation experts are busy as ever from now until the ground freezes scheduling landscape lighting installations. Our clients look forward to extending their outdoor enjoyment well into the evening hours. Call us today or click here if you are contemplating a new system or adding to your existing one.

We are so grateful to provide our products and services to our wonderful clients and we enjoy creating an outdoor experience for you and your environments.

And Then There Was Light

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 15:54:46 GMT

As we enjoy our time outdoors this summer, getting back to celebrations and gatherings with friends and family, much time has been devoted to our outdoor living spaces. Upgrades, improvements, and renovations have occurred in our backyards, patios, and landscapes. We have a strong desire to extend the hours of outdoor fun into the evening, gathering around the fire pit and gazing at the stars. Our clients benefit from a well-designed outdoor illumination system offering tranquility, safety, and beauty after dark.

The majority of our lighting systems are focused on your landscape. Fixtures are carefully placed among the plantings, inside of planting beds, and even in the canopy of large trees. This allows us to highlight the charm and elegance of the space creating a unique ambiance. Your landscape is a living, changing environment and your lighting system must change with it. As your landscape matures, your fixtures and wiring require adjustments and sometimes relocation. Unfortunate damage can occur, and underground wires are bound to accidentally get cut. We are here to help keep your system performing as well as it did the day it was installed

Our Preventative Maintenance customers enjoy the benefits of never having to worry about their system. Our technicians visit their property each year to clean, adjust, inspect, and test the entire system and make any necessary repairs. We even extend the system warranty so that any problems throughout the year are handled at no additional cost. If you would like to see how this service could benefit you, click here .

Jason Surges, Service Manager at Night Light, Inc.

Our service manager, Jason Surges, has worked for Night Light for over 15 years. His team has the expertise needed to troubleshoot and repair any problem that may arise with your system. From simple lamp replacement to complex voltage testing, to complete fixture replacement, they are at your service and just a phone call away. You can click here to schedule a service call anytime.

Days will once again begin to shorten as we progress toward the fall season, and you’ll want your system tested and ready to withstand the elements of the upcoming winter. If you’ve been meaning to contact us today is the perfect time to speak with one of our team members. Call us today at 630-627-1111 or follow this link to submit your request.

Outdoor Home Additions

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 15:54:30 GMT

We’ve probably heard more information about Outdoor Living than we care to admit as a result of the 2020 Covid pandemic. Consumers are spending more time outside in their own backyards leading to renovation and expansion of decks, patios, pools, pergolas, and landscaping. Finding a qualified contractor these days to help plan, design, and implement these improvements has become a somewhat challenging task due to the high demand.

Our team at Night Light, partners with numerous contractors that provide an array of service offerings for Outdoor Living improvements. Feel free to contact us today for a recommendation. Click here to find out how one of our partners can help you create an outdoor oasis to entertain and unwind.

Backyard BBQ

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 15:37:55 GMT

There is great enjoyment in hosting or attending a summer backyard BBQ with family and friends. The delicious food, cold refreshments, relaxing atmosphere, and engaging conversation help to define a great American pastime. Numerous resources exist online for BBQ recipes, cooling drink favorites, accompanying side dishes and yummy deserts. Preparing a perfect backyard spread is easy when you have the space, accessories and proper equipment suited for the task.

In our previous blog article titled “If You Can’t Stand the Heat…” we explored the current enthusiasm towards Outdoor Kitchens. “Where do most guests congregate in today’s open floor plans? Just like our indoor kitchen and family room concepts, an Outdoor Kitchen has become the newest trend in outdoor living spaces.” Outdoor kitchens are designed with modern cooking appliances, refrigeration units, ample storage, functioning sinks, and both functional and elegant lighting, the perfect place to create your BBQ banquet.

The primary appliance that is necessary for your BBQ feast is the grilling station. Before you get the flames going, know what type of grill to invest in to achieve the char and flavor you are after. How often will you use your unit? How much TLC will you devote to the cooking process? How much space do you have and what size is needed? Typically, grills use charcoal, gas, electric, or wood pellets to produce the heat, flames, and smoke you are striving for. Manufacturers like Weber, Traeger, Char-Broil, Coleman and even Cuisinart are only a handful of the many possible options to choose from.

One of the favorite BBQ main dishes must be pork ribs. There are hundreds of recipes available for preparing BBQ ribs. Our favorite includes a two-step process consisting of slow cooking first followed by direct heat grilling. You can find this process outlined at The Country Cook website by clicking here .

Whatever your favorite dish is for your summer backyard BBQ, take the time to prepare your space appropriately and invite your friends for a fun time!

Illumination Effects and Applications

Fri, 21 May 2021 18:48:51 GMT

Discover the differences between the various outdoor illumination effects and applications.

Photographic examples of each application are described and highlighted. Various fixture types are represented for each application.

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Staycation

Mon, 17 May 2021 21:05:53 GMT

Our homes have been working double- and triple-duty during the pandemic as offices, schools, day-care centers, and gyms. It seems that now, more than ever, we dream of “getting away” from our homes that we have associated with stress, chores, and deadlines. While many businesses and venues are reopening, there are still plenty of valid concerns that create a sense of hesitation to travel for pleasure anytime soon. Staycations was once a catchy title given to home adventures that would mimic the luxuries of resort-style getaways and respites. Today we associate staying-at-home as a necessity of survival instead of choice.

The rise in home improvements and consumers’ purchasing of home goods is proof that we are staycationing much more than in recent years. Improvements to interiors, exteriors and outdoor living spaces continue to rise. It’s no secret that new swimming pools, bicycles, exercise equipment, kitchen upgrades and general remodeling have risen dramatically since the start of the pandemic. Creating opportunities to “get away” from the daily routine without leaving our homes has become a weekly challenge and remains to be the safest, and more affordable way to unwind and relax.

How will you plan your next staycation? Will it include the creation of a luxury spa experience complete with hot bubble bath, scented candles, bath salts and soothing music? Or maybe you are planning to go camping right in your own back yard (or living room) complete with your new outdoor kitchen, fire pit, hot tub, outdoor speakers and sleeping bag? When was the last time you did an internet search on your own community to discover the tourist attractions that could be just a short walk or bike ride away?

However you plan for your next staycation, rest assured you can have as much fun and enjoyment in your own home while creating lasting memories with your family. We hope you stay safe this summer and wish you and yours happy planning!

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 20:59:06 GMT

out - door adjective “done, situated, or used out of doors”

car - pen - try noun “the activity or occupation of making or repairing things in wood”

Outdoor carpentry has become a specialty skill in the construction trades. It combines the craftsmanship and artistry of woodworking with the knowledge of exterior climate effects on wood and fasteners. Proper design and construction of structures for the outdoors requires professional knowledge and specialized experience. Exposure to seasonal elements can play havoc on outdoor structures resulting in weakness and instability if not designed and built properly.

A natural wooden structure such as a gazebo, pergola or trellis can add elemental interest in your outdoor living environment. Blending of architectural design elements, patterns and styles can result in artistic and breathtaking detail. Transforming your outdoor space with a new deck, grill enclosure or custom planter box can be just the finishing touch needed for your outdoor enjoyment. Many outdoor kitchens incorporate some form of outdoor carpentry for functional and aesthetic purposes.

Gates, fences and screen walls can be artistic elements that provide the privacy or separation desired in your outdoor space. Wooden stairways, footbridges and walkways can be a welcome contrast in a landscape designed with colorful plantings and stonework. Your outdoor living space deserves the proper planning and design focus combining these various elements.

Are you looking to transform your outdoor space this season? Are you spending more time in your own backyard entertaining your family and friends? Professional outdoor carpentry can add that extra element you’ve been looking for. We have partnered with numerous companies in the landscape and construction industry with the experience and qualifications to earn our recommendation. Contact us today if we can help recommend someone for your next project.

I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 19:00:07 GMT

“More than 70% of those who invest in professional illumination also had their landscapes professionally designed. Yet, most landscape plans are developed and installed without anticipating the integration of landscape illumination…”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

An Ounce of Prevention

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 20:52:05 GMT

“ Here comes the sun, and I say It’s all right ” – The Beatles

Mother nature has an amazing ability to begin transforming our landscapes as the days lengthen. Mounds of snow that just recently lined our driveways and sidewalks are replaced with lush, green lawn and early spring daffodils. Trees and shrubs awake from their winter hibernation wearing their spring costumes of lilac, magnolia, honeysuckle and cherry blossoms. But with most beauty, comes a need for preparation, protection and maintenance.

Landscape professionals will all agree that the spring is a critical time of year to make plans for preparation, protection, and maintenance. Have you developed your plan for this season relating to:

Lawn rejuvenation and restoration
Seasonal flower selection, planting, and rotation
Proper fertilization of plantings and lawn areas
Weekly turf care (mowing, trimming, weed control)
Proper pruning and trimming of plant species
Perennial plant splitting and thinning
Mulching and bed preparation
Pest management safeguards
Strategic plant removals and replacement

Proper maintenance of your landscape provides the framework and foundation for the beauty and setting you desire. Many maintenance tasks can be performed effectively ourselves and actually provide exercise and therapy for many of us.

Qualified professional landscape maintenance contractors are plentiful and provide excellent results at varying levels of investment. If you need help choosing a qualified landscape contractor give us a call or click here . We have partnerships with some of the best in the Midwest.

“ Here comes the sun, and I say It’s all right ” – The Beatles

Enjoying the Outdoors at Home This Year

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 20:46:58 GMT

What a year this has been, navigating through all the COVID-19 restrictions, quarantines, and social distancing. Recent studies point to an increase in consumer spending on outdoor home improvements and amenities. Swimming pools, hot tubs, fire tables, bicycles, and even outdoor furniture was difficult to locate by mid-summer as a result of the increased interest in these items. As we found ourselves ‘sheltering-in-place’, landscaping, decks, patios, and general outdoor improvements have all seen an increase in activity this summer.

As pandemic restrictions loosened a bit in the spring, outdoor gatherings with family and friends became one of the only social events deemed acceptable.

Manufacturers of lawn care materials boast an uptick in sales revenues directly related to the pandemic.

Recent statistics:

American adults are spending an average of two hours a day outside during the COVID-19 outbreak. Nearly half say they are spending more time outside now than they did before the outbreak began.
On average, those who are currently gardening or caring for their lawn are spending four hours a week doing so.
Gardening interests have increased not only due to the obvious restrictions, but also consumers’ increased desire to access fresh vegetables and reduce trips to the grocery stores.
Scott’s family of lawn products has reported company-wide revenue growth of more than 30 percent through the third quarter of 2020.

This might just be the best time to begin thinking ahead to spring 2021. Are you thinking about any backyard improvements or upgrades? Do you have a little more time on your hands to plant that vegetable garden you have been wanting? Is your lawn or landscape in need of some fresh ideas or overdue re-design? At Night Light, we take pride in partnering with some of the best craftsmen in the outdoor living industry.

Our partners specialize in landscape design and installation, irrigation, patios, fire pits, pergolas, gazebos, tree care, swimming pools, fountains, architecture, carpentry, masonry, and outdoor kitchens. It would be our pleasure to recommend a qualified contractor for your next project. Click HERE to send an inquiry and we would be happy to respond.

We are all looking forward to a time when we will look back at 2020 and wonder how we survived. Until then, we wish you all the best health, happiness, and safety.

Right Tree, Right Place

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 20:43:13 GMT

Much of what we do at Night Light revolves around landscape elements with an emphasis on trees. Our landscape illumination designers utilize these elements to effectively create a unique illumination plan. Trees provide us with the form, structure, texture, and color that we highlight after dark. They can also provide the perfect means to support our special moon light effects.

Multi-stem trees such as flowering crabs, redbud, birch, and magnolia are perfect elements to highlight as focal points in the landscape. Perimeter trees including spruce, pine, maple, and walnut allow us to frame your property and provide depth and destination. Large mature canopy trees like majestic oak and hickory are the perfect specimen for breathtaking overhead vistas and subtle moon light shadowing onto a patio, walkway, or lawn area.

Without these amazing trees, we simply cannot create these awesome lighting effects that are possible. Proper care of your trees is critical, not only for our lighting effects but for the overall beauty of your property. Regular pruning, feeding, and scouting for pests should be a minimum regimen for the investment you have made in your trees. As we prepare our illumination recommendations, we regularly encounter trees that need some care. We have partnered with multiple professional tree care companies that we feel possess the knowledge and experience to handle any size tree care program.

When was the last time you had someone do an assessment of the trees on your property? Act now before you find out you may have waited too long. Click here if you would like us to recommend a tree care expert for your location.

Mulching: A Matter of Life and Death

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 20:39:21 GMT

Who would think that something as simple as providing a layer of mulch around your landscape plants could save them from dangerous conditions throughout the year?

As we enjoy the hot summer days of the Midwest, we must be reminded that our plants are exposed to the sun and heat every day. Although they are accustomed to our climate, we must offer them protection when we can by maintaining a proper layer of mulch in our gardens. The benefits of mulching are more than just aesthetic. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, helps cool plant roots, decreases weeds, reduces erosion, and adds organic matter. Mulch also provides benefits to our plants during the winter by keeping the soil temperature from fluctuating during temperature variations and protecting delicate plants that might be questionably hardy in our climate zone.

Without a proper application of mulch, newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials risk dangerous conditions of wilting, stressing, and eventual death. This can occur just as easily in the summer heat as in the winter cold.

Who do you rely on to care for your landscape? As a member of the Illinois Landscape Contractors Association, Night Light works closely with hundreds of qualified landscape contractors ready to help you with your landscape needs. We would be happy to recommend a landscape professional that works in your area. Call us today or click here for a recommendation.

As you enjoy the rest of this summer, do not neglect the beautiful plants that provide you with so much joy!

They DONT Last Forever

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 20:33:25 GMT

The technological advances that have been made with the improvements in Light Emitting Diode (LED) fixtures and lamps are not to be ignored. We have all experienced the benefits of switching from traditional to LED light bulbs and fixtures. These advantages include; energy efficiency, eco-friendly, lower heat emissions, instant-on with no warm-up, dimmable, wide color ranges and longer-lasting bulbs. The lower energy consumption alone has demonstrated how significant LED advancements have transformed the lighting industry.

Unfortunately, improvements are still needed in the area of LED lamp life related to outdoor exposure. Often, we hear from our valued clients, “I thought my LED lamps were supposed to last forever?” Here are some facts to consider.

LED chips are typically rated for 50,000 hours useful life. Of course, this is based on lab testing at 75F and dry conditions. Heat and moisture play a major factor in degrading the life of the LED chips.

The small outdoor fixtures, running on hot summer nights, result in quicker depreciation of output. Any breaks in the seal/gasket might allow moisture in, which may damage the electronics. Consequently, the severe temperature swings in our Chicago area will cause some fixtures and lamps to last a shorter time than others. Due to varying conditions, LED lamp life in the outdoors is extremely unpredictable.

Indoor lights are almost always used in open fixtures and dry locations and so the heat dissipation is better and therefore the LEDs last longer. LED fixtures and lamps also require specific voltage ranges for optimum performance. When these ranges are not accurate, lamp life decreases drastically.

At Night Light, we continue to investigate and pursue the latest advancements to deliver the highest quality products and service to our clients. We will continue to utilize the best options and improvements as they become available. Feel free to contact us today if you have any questions or need more information regarding LED landscape illumination.

Stay Secure at Home and Keep Your Family Safe

Fri, 01 May 2020 20:23:01 GMT

During this time of increased uncertainty with the COVID19 pandemic and ‘stay at home’ orders, families are finding their homes occupied 24/7. This increased presence and activity most likely deters burglars and prowlers. Nonetheless, keeping your home secure should not be left forgotten. We are sharing a few successful techniques to help improve your home’s security and keep your family safe at night.

Illuminate Your Entryways

Entrances to your home, especially side doors or a back door to a garage, should be properly lit to prevent incidents. These entries can become a vulnerable weak point in home security. Trespassers do not want to be seen so a properly illuminated entryway will become a door they will not approach. A well-lit property is less trespassed.

Incorporate Functional Lighting

Light fixtures can provide extra light outdoors for specific tasks like grilling, dining, and entertainment. These lights can also help us see and deter trespassers. Moon lighting effects provide lighting of pathways through the outdoor space but also help us detect motion outside our windows after dark. When a property is tastefully lit, your home is creating a psychological barrier to intruders.

Effective Illumination Can be Subtle Without Becoming Blinding

One of the advantages of illuminating your property with landscape lighting is the creation of depth and definition of space. Selecting a proper fixture positioned in the right location allows for accenting and highlighting the landscape elements. Ambient light reflected off trees and structures results in elegance and beauty instead of blinding unwanted glare.

Be Mindful of Your Neighbors

Extending the reach of your illumination scheme to the very outer edges of your property, in a tasteful manner, eliminates dark spots and hiding places. Obtrusive floodlights that are triggered with motion sensors are unnecessary when fixtures are selected and positioned properly. Indirect lighting that is shielded and aimed properly can help us remain responsible and aware of how our lighting affects those around us. Security lighting can be beautiful, tasteful, and not upsetting to those nearby.

It is important to mention that even the best security lighting is no replacement for a proper security system. Security lighting serves as an extra measure, a way of reinforcing a clear message that your property is not worth the trouble. It is a wonderful thing when the lighting around your property can add both beauty and function to keep your home safe.

Are you looking to learn more about security lighting for your home? Click here to Schedule a consultation today with one of our lighting advisors and make your home safer during these times.

Light Up Your Holiday’s

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 20:12:26 GMT

White lights are classic and elegant – yet they make an eye-catching display.

Our outdoor living series would not be complete without a timely mention of outdoor holiday decorations. Holiday displays bring warmth and cheer to homes and businesses alike. When choosing a company to bring your vision to life, here are some tips for hassle-free holiday lighting that produces the results you desire.

Consult – The process should start with an evaluation of your property and how it dovetails with your goals and your budget.

Design – The next step is a detailed design that meets the agreed-upon criteria.

Install – Expert installation and attention to detail make a huge difference in the ultimate effect and impact. Proper equipment and resources are key to achieve dazzling results.

Combining light strings with accent lights, roping and bows result in a stunning display.

See the difference a striking holiday display makes at the entrance to your community association or business.

White-Glove Service – look for a company that offers season-long maintenance and will also take down and store all decorations at the end of the season.

The proper design identifies which elements and areas of your home should be accented.

It may seem natural that Night Light, Inc. would provide holiday lighting and decorating, but instead, we have chosen to leave this service to those professionals that specialize in this distinct offering. We have developed close relationships with professional organizations that are highly accomplished to achieve amazing results. We would be honored to recommend a qualified contractor to help you design and create your holiday display. Click here to send an inquiry to our referral portal.

Although it’s sad to see summer coming to an end and the days growing shorter, we can all look forward to the season of light!

If You Can't Stand the Heat...

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 20:05:24 GMT

Outdoor kitchen under the pergola with a touch of bistro lights.

Do you love cooking and entertaining outdoors? Where do most guests congregate in today’s open floor plans? Just like our indoor kitchen and family room concepts, an “Outdoor Kitchen” has become the newest trend in outdoor living spaces. The functional, spacious, outdoor kitchen provides ample space for food preparation, cooking, and entertaining. Modern, rustic, or just plain simple, the outdoor kitchen is an extension of your home.

With many of the same features as our indoor spaces, outdoor kitchens are designed with modern cooking appliances, refrigeration units, ample storage, functioning sinks, electric and both functional and elegant lighting. Our Chicagoland winters provide an additional design challenge as many outdoor kitchens can be utilized year-round.

Don’t have a lot of space? A simple L-shape kitchen might be the way to go.

Happiness is BBQ, Friends & Backyard

Take the cooking and entertaining outdoors especially during the warm summer evenings when enjoying your yard is preferred. Outdoor kitchens reduce indoor heat and smoke and eliminate lingering food odors, thereby reducing utility costs of cooling your home. Grilled food is tasty, less greasy and healthier and many of us just love the experience of grilling out with friends and family.

Much more than a place to put the BBQ grill, outdoor kitchens are designed with countertops, islands, wet bars and seating. You can still have that dining experience by adding some patio chairs/sofas, patio heaters, fire pits, and even televisions that are being designed around the central outdoor kitchen concept.

Where to begin and what to consider?

Consider the amount of space available in your outdoor living area for an outdoor kitchen. Large or small, an outdoor kitchen should meet your needs. Basic needs such as gas, electric and water lines should be carefully planned for early on. Call on an experienced contractor that has designed and built outdoor kitchens. They can help you determine the size, location and complexity or simplicity you desire. If you are ready to begin planning your outdoor kitchen area, we can recommend a qualified contractor to walk you through the process. Click here to send an inquiry to our referral portal.

“Give a man a barbeque, feed him for a day; teach a man to barbecue and feed him and his friends for the summer.”

Seasonal Color

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 19:56:51 GMT

A well-designed landscape provides seasonal interest year-round. Our Midwest weather dictates the plants and elements we can choose to deliver ever-changing colors and textures. Properly selected plants during the appropriate seasons can vary from subtle color combinations to vibrant contrasting pizzazz. Spring, summer, fall and even winter displays are possible in your landscape with some careful planning and an eye for design. A seasonal cycle of budding flowers, blooming petals, and lush greenery remind us of the wonders that nature has to offer.

Timing is Everything

As summer finally arrives and the proverbial threat of frost has passed, planting summer annuals becomes a high priority during late May and early June, for homeowners and industry professionals alike. Planting now before the summer heat arrives is optimal to allow your plants to become established and well-rooted. Color and texture combinations for use in containers and ground beds are endless. One can’t help but notice the artistry portrayed in the amazing displays created by seasonal color professionals.

Color for every season

As the term “annual flower” indicates, seasonal color is defined as: new plantings installed every season to achieve the desired appearance. Unlike perennial flowers, annuals are removed at the end of a particular season to be replaced with the next season’s selection.

A typical four-season rotation provides vibrant early spring color using bulbs and cold-hardy annuals which are replaced with warmer weather summer flowers around Memorial Day. Spring bulbs give us early color that peek through the snow while most plants are still in dormancy.

The summer palette of flowers opens the imagination to clusters of vibrant colors to captivate onlookers. Selection of summer annual flower varieties and colors has increased tremendously with flower growers’ research and improvements in propagation techniques.

As the summer wanes, fall mums, kale, and cold-hardy pansies replace the cold sensitive summer plants until next year. Autumn displays coordinate with the natural native plants to bring a beautiful transition to the season ahead.

Winter interest has become popular by providing arrangements of cut evergreen boughs, colorful cut branches from red dogwoods and curly willow, accented with pinecones and white birch branches and stems.

We are here to help

We have heard that color captures the imaginations, soothes and heals, and lifts our spirits. At Night Light, we partner with some of the most creative landscape professionals that offer seasonal color design for residential and commercial properties alike. If you would like some help with a seasonal color program, click here to send an inquiry to our referral portal.

Swimming Pool Smarts

Wed, 22 May 2019 19:42:17 GMT

Memorial Day has come and gone, but with the lingering chilly weather, many haven’t yet opened their pools for the season! If sunny optimism hasn’t cajoled you out of your home and onto the pool deck, take heart. You’ll be set to go with these Swimming Pool Smarts.

Clean and store the winter cover.

If necessary, use a sump pump to remove water from the cover. Brush off any additional debris and wash it before removal to avoid hauling additional weight or risking contamination of the pool. Make sure to lay the cover out to dry thoroughly before storing it for the season. However, we’d recommend you use a pool cover cleaning solution that allows for damp storage. It is almost impossible to get both sides completely dry, but you can prevent mold!

Swap out your drain plugs.

Let’s face it, this is Chicagoland and winter is wild. If you prepped your drains with winterized drain plugs, don’t forget to swap them out for the season!

Drain, clean, and refill the pool.

Preparing for a refill is an important step! If you choose to drain your pool, give the interior, any tile, skimmer mouths, and deck a once-over with the proper chemicals for smooth sailing this season.

Inspect for necessary repairs.

It’s as simple as it sounds. Just make sure you have physically looked at pool equipment, pool coping, waterline tile, interior finish and the pool deck area. Test your controls. Make note of any leaks, noises, colors, or cracks. If anything looks off or out of place, call your maintenance company!

Weekly maintenance.

There is no substitute for regular attention. Check and adjust pool chemistry, skim the surface or empty the skimmer baskets, and rinse your deck, patio, or tiles. We all know how quickly these can snowball into larger projects, so exercise due diligence to get the most out of your pool in 2019!

Not ready to “weekend warrior” your pool this year?

We get it. Do you need regular maintenance taken care of by professionals? As fortune would have it, we have trustworthy friends in high places who can help you prepare for the season and advise you on best practices! If you could you use a hand, click here for a referral to one of our hand-selected partners.

Irrigate Like a Pro

Fri, 03 May 2019 19:39:41 GMT

Now that Chicago’s annual April cold snap is out of the way, it’s time to get ready for summer! At Night Light, we’ve been privileged to develop a plethora of relationships in the outdoor living industry. As a result, we’ve gathered an abundance insight to share with our valued clients as they venture outside.

Over the next several months, we’ll share industry tips and tricks, best practices and signs to look out for, as you enjoy your outdoor living space! So, let’s start at the very beginning, the very best place to start…

Do you have an irrigation system on your property? Do you wish you did? Have you had issues with your existing system?

As you activate your system for the season, keep an eye out for:

Irrigation heads sticking out of the ground when the system is not running.

Heads left vulnerable from pets and landscape equipment also pose a tripping hazard. Get it checked out before damage strikes. It will save you money and a headache in the swing of the summer season!

Saturated mulch.

This typically indicates that changes were made to the landscape without adjusting the irrigation system. It can lead to over- or under-watering in the updated area. Contact your irrigation contractor to cap off, remove or relocate the heads that are no longer needed.

Irrigation heads behind or beneath shrubs, flowers, other obstructions, or in mulch beds.

One or more of these scenarios will become a factor as your landscape grows and matures. If you notice that any of your heads are buried or blocked by plants, it is time to reach out to your irrigation advisor. We always recommend being proactive early in the season to short-circuit the effects of inefficiency.

Water-stained patio furniture, signage, or outdoor toys.

This suggests that your carefully-chosen accessories are suffering the effects of a constant soaking. A simple adjustment to the head is most likely all that’s needed.

Puddling or algae build-up.

If there is no clear obstacle in the way of the water stream, you may have a broken head or leaking valve on your hands. Make sure to point it out for your irrigation maintenance company during their spring visit.

Looking for some help?

Amongst our many alliance partners are a handful of top-notch irrigation companies. If you’re looking for maintenance, advice, or a brand-new system, click here to tap into our preferred referral base!

Up next? “Swimming Pool Smarts!”

Starting Well

Tue, 19 Mar 2019 19:27:21 GMT

As we anticipate a burgeoning spring—with all of its whispered promises of growth and life to come—this moment of quiet is pregnant for reflection. In the calm before the storm, we look before and behind us. We steady ourselves on the horizon and take a deep breath.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” He does not say, “first, I will sharpen the axe,” but rather that he will spend two thirds of his allotted time caring for his tool and preparing it for the test of its effectiveness. From team development to process management to simply getting our heads on straight, mindful preparation is essential. Thirty years have taught us that success is collective, or it is not success at all. Reflecting on the throes of time, we smile to see Night Light’s community and culture, built on the backs of the men and women who create us.

Sharpening our axe looks like spending twenty hours in strategic planning and hundreds more in individual initiatives to streamline one another’s lives. It looks like proactively considering the solutions we can share internally and with others in our industry. It looks like investing in tools and training for the long haul and planning for the trajectory of our team. And it looks like listening to and honoring the variety of perspectives our people bring to the table.

We are grateful for the beginning of a new season! This year we have repositioned our veteran team members to lead us into the next chapter. We spent the winter in transition to increase bandwidth and individual thriving. Now it is time to swing, whittling away at the 2019 season and finding new chinks to smooth out. May we always be willing to stop and sharpen our axe when necessary, so we can stride on with confidence!

Do it Right the First Time: Building Security into the Home Project

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 19:12:03 GMT

“Through decades of vibrant relationships with other leaders in the luxury residential industry, the Night Light team has gained invaluable insight into the security challenges facing single-family homes in Chicagoland. As crime rates climb, design-build firms continue to weave improved security measures into the original construction of homes and their landscapes…”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Tangled? A Bristro Lighting Installation Guide

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 19:23:10 GMT

“The manifold attempts to take advantage of bistro lights speak to their aesthetic, as they have the power to transform the atmosphere of nearly any living space. However, a few key considerations must be made before moving forward with your next bistro lighting endeavor…”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Country Club Outdoor Lighting Guide

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 19:29:46 GMT

“Night illumination at country clubs should always be noticeably remarkable, because it serves to improve the appearance and usability of the club. It makes an impression, creates anticipation and the promise of a wonderful evening to come. It can even win new members, especially if your club, figuratively and actually, outshines the competition…”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

An Introduction and the Pitfalls of LED Site and Landscape Illumination

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 19:33:33 GMT

“After reading this article participants will be able to:

1. Identify the five main light sources available for site and landscape illumination.

2. Determine the color of light that applies to the design parameters of a given situation.

3. Assess how “green” five main light sources are and compare them to the LED fixtures and lamps available on the market today.

4. Evaluate LED lamp and fixture technology .”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Lighting the Way

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 19:36:45 GMT

“Since the early 1990’s, lighting projects and sales have increased regularly. Professionally designed and installed landscape lighting is a ‘beacon’ on the landscape horizon, and it seems to be getting brighter and brighter.”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Lighten Up a Landscape

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 19:40:33 GMT

“Suzan and Jim Hallene had just renovated the gardens around their elegant two-story home when they realized something was missing. The night was swallowing the landscape, and visiting friends couldn’t find the driveway, ‘People coming over at night were running over our landscaping,’ Suzan recalls with a laugh.”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

There is No There There When You Get There

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 20:15:18 GMT

“Common sense would tell you that since the landscape is living and ever-changing, we probably ought to account for that change in the site and landscape lighting system… It is important to keep in mind that less is more. If the architectural lighting is overpowering, then the subtleties of the landscape are lost.”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Would You Heat Your Building by Burning $10 Bills?

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 20:26:12 GMT

“Probably not! Then why would you allow your site and landscape lighting to continue to waste your energy dollars? Did you know that old and inefficient site and landscape lighting fixtures and lamps can rob you of your annual budget?”

READ FLIP BOOK ARTICLE

Burr Ridge Residence: A Team Approach

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 14:21:54 GMT

“Night Light, Inc. was privileged to be part of the landscape illumination team for this Burr Ridge home and property. Our involvement included discovery meetings with the owners to determine their specific landscape illumination needs. Dean MacMorris, co-owner of Night Light, Inc., was the designer and project manager and met directly with the homeowners, builder Dennis DeLaura and Landscape Architect Mike Trippiedi to establish the direction for the extensive landscape illumination plans…”

Hinsdale Residence: Lighten Up a Landscape

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 14:18:49 GMT

“Hinsdale, by day, is a charming western suburb where tall, leafy trees arch gracefully over beautifully landscaped yards. By night, Hinsdale is, well, dark. Much of the lovely landscaping is lost amidst the quiet shadows of the night…”

Pulte Homes: Strong Partnership, Positive Results

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 14:14:23 GMT

“Pulte Homes and Del Webb, (a division of Pulte Homes) has designed and built new homes and communities of the highest quality and design excellence for more than 50 years. During the early spring of 2007, Pulte’s Land Development Managers expressed an interest in improving the overall appearance of their community entrances. Dawn Tecza, of Land Management Group, a landscape management consultant for Pulte, introduced Night Light, Inc to the Pulte organization…”

night-light

Lighting + Audio: The Future of Outdoor Living

As outdoor spaces increasingly become year-round extensions of the home, integrated lighting and audio set the stage for effortless gatherings.

Enjoy The Little Things

Toasty Marshmallow Evenings

Are You Ready For Some…

And Then There Was Light

Outdoor Home Additions

Backyard BBQ

Illumination Effects and Applications

Staycation

Measure Twice, Cut Once

I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me

An Ounce of Prevention

Enjoying the Outdoors at Home This Year

Right Tree, Right Place

Mulching: A Matter of Life and Death

They DONT Last Forever

Stay Secure at Home and Keep Your Family Safe

Illuminate Your Entryways

Incorporate Functional Lighting

Effective Illumination Can be Subtle Without Becoming Blinding

Be Mindful of Your Neighbors

Light Up Your Holiday’s

If You Can't Stand the Heat...

Happiness is BBQ, Friends & Backyard

Where to begin and what to consider?

Seasonal Color

Timing is Everything

Color for every season

We are here to help

Swimming Pool Smarts

Clean and store the winter cover.

Swap out your drain plugs.

Drain, clean, and refill the pool.

Inspect for necessary repairs.

Weekly maintenance.

Not ready to “weekend warrior” your pool this year?

Irrigate Like a Pro

As you activate your system for the season, keep an eye out for:

﻿

Irrigation heads sticking out of the ground when the system is not running.

Saturated mulch.

Irrigation heads behind or beneath shrubs, flowers, other obstructions, or in mulch beds.

Water-stained patio furniture, signage, or outdoor toys.

Puddling or algae build-up.

Looking for some help?

Starting Well

Do it Right the First Time: Building Security into the Home Project

Tangled? A Bristro Lighting Installation Guide

Country Club Outdoor Lighting Guide

An Introduction and the Pitfalls of LED Site and Landscape Illumination

Lighting the Way

Lighten Up a Landscape

There is No There There When You Get There

Would You Heat Your Building by Burning $10 Bills?

Burr Ridge Residence: A Team Approach

Hinsdale Residence: Lighten Up a Landscape

Pulte Homes: Strong Partnership, Positive Results