It can be difficult to get outside during the winter months, especially during the work week when it's often already dark by the time you get home. While the weather of course plays a factor in year-round ourdoor living, proper lighting - and maybe some oudoor heaters or a fire pit - enable you to enjoy your outdoor living space throughout the year.

The first thing to consider when lighting your outdoor space is safety. Ensure your pathways and steps are properly illuminated. Doing this will naturally provide a warm glow around your outdoor space and make the area more welcoming. Also, consider installing sconces to frame doorways, and redirect floodlights so that they do not shine directly into visitors' faces.

Lighting isn't just about functionality though. Today's lighting designers are developing incredible outdoor, wet-rated fixtures that will add style and beauty to your outdoor space.

In a recent interview with Executive Editor of Lighting magazine Samantha Hart, Quoizel President & CEO Rick Seidman explained the verstility and creativity offered in today's outdoor light fixtures. "Whatever the decor theme is for outside, pick a fixture that works for that space," Seidman says.

Seidman also reminds homeowners to take into account the elements and the climate where they live when choosing outdoor fixtures. There are stylish, versatile fixtures in finishes designed to withstand harsher climates.