Page 37 - Lighting Magazine February 2020

Outward bound
sights throughout the residential neighborhoods are traditional gaslights.
Southland’s lighting showroom includes a special outdoor section with a garden vignette as well as faux exterior walls so customers can see how the lighting glows, beams, and reflects in various settings.
“In many ways, outdoor lighting can be more intricate and needs to be more well-thought-out than interior lights,” Cortello notes. “Outdoor light- ing often draws attention right away, whether it’s the drive-up appeal or setting the stage customers want in their patio area. There is so much involved in providing exactly the right look, and there are more technical requirements as well.”
The addition of outdoor kitchens is a trend that has had staying power in New Orleans. “It’s definitely something that is in demand. Just about every residential plan I have been doing involves a full outdoor kitchen,” Cortello comments. “Back- yards are nearly as important to homeowners as their interiors.”
“It’s all about the statement that each customer wants to make.” —Lacey Cortello, Southland Plumbing Supply
Unlike in times past, outdoor lighting has become more fashion-conscious. “Styles change frequently. We were in a rustic stage for a few years, but now it’s all about modern, clean lines,” Cortello states. “Exterior lights aren’t just brass, black, or white [finishes] anymore,” she said. “It’s all about the statement that each customer wants to make.”
Southland has continued to expand its outdoor offerings through the acquisition of Outdoor Living Center. Mona runs that arm of the business, which is filled with high-end outdoor furniture, paintings, and décor items specifically tested and rated for weather wearability.
“Most of the people who come into our stores are in the early stages of their building or remodel- ing,” Cortello says. “They love the convenience of being able to purchase their plumbing and lighting at the same place and want to be able to work with our staff to put it all together. Our outdoor store is a great complement to our other showrooms because it completes the entire picture for a homeowner.”
February 2020 | enLIGHTenment Magazine 35