As homeowners increasingly extend their outdoor areas, technology can play a big role in making these spaces more functional, comfortable and impressive. Whether you’re entertaining, relaxing with family or enjoying nature, here are some key dos and don’ts for incorporating tech into your outdoor living space.
Above photo: Technology such as speakers, lighting and cameras can be designed to blend into outdoor living spaces, such as this one by Robbins Architecture and Goldberg General Contracting Inc. Photo Credit: Ryan Hainey
Rocking Out(doors) with Music
Few things enhance an open-air experience like great tunes, but it’s important to get the setup right.
- Don’t assume a single wireless speaker will provide adequate outdoor sound. This may work for a small area, but it won’t deliver enough sound for large gatherings, open yards or spaces with high ambient noise.
- Do invest in a “landscape” audio system for outdoor listening. These consist of multiple discreet “satellite” speakers and one or more hidden subwoofers. Landscape systems provide high-quality music over large areas. These are often placed around the perimeter of the property, aimed inward toward the home to reduce noise spillover.
- Do treat your outdoor space like the best-sounding “room” in your home. High-performance tower or bollard speakers can deliver excellent sound and plenty of volume, perfect for parties and events.
Movies & Sports in the Fresh Air
From gathering family and friends for an outdoor movie night to lounging on an outdoor couch while cheering your favorite team, there is something memorable about watching television outside.
- Don’t use an indoor television for outdoor viewing. These aren’t designed to withstand the elements, and leaving them outdoors usually causes premature failure and contributes to greater electronic waste.
- Do use a weather-rated outdoor television. Some are built for shaded areas, while others are for full sun, so choose based on your application. If possible, placing the TV on a north or east wall or under a roof or pergola can extend its life and reduce glare.
Stay Connected
“Work from home” doesn’t mean you need to be inside the home, but to stay productive outdoors – or to control music, TV, etc. – you’ll need to have Wi-Fi coverage outside.
- Don’t rely on Wi-Fi from the inside of the house reaching outside. The construction of exterior walls coupled with distance significantly reduces Wi-Fi speeds and coverage. Taking a video conference call outside is great – until you start cutting out.
- Do plan for proper outdoor Wi-Fi coverage, including running a cable to the exterior of the home, and use of an outdoor-rated access point. Large yards may need more than one, just like inside.
In Control of Outdoor Lighting
Nothing brings out the beauty of an outdoor space like a well-designed lighting system. Just like our indoor rooms, lighting is most transformative when it can adapt to your needs.
- Don’t depend solely on timers and traditional light switches to control outdoor lights. These limit your ability to dynamically change lighting. They can leave your outdoor space dark when you want it lit or lit when you don’t, possibly preventing your outdoor space from looking its best.
- Do install a smart lighting control system, especially one that can manage your indoor lighting as well. These can turn on lights automatically at sunset, off at a set time (like midnight) and leave select lights on all night, adding convenience and security. With the tap of a button, you can brighten or turn on more outdoor lights for entertaining or cooking.
With the right technology, your outdoor living space can be just as smart and inviting as the inside of your home.
