Lose the Dark Bronze. Decades ago, an engineer of some obscure lighting company decided to make Dark Bronze the standard color for outdoor luminaries and poles. Today it is still the dominant color of choice. I ask, why? I suspect the answer is because is the way we’ve always done it. Well, that just isn’t a good enough reason to continue polluting our parking lots with this tired color.

I recommend working with the architect and owner to identify an accent color on the project and match the poles heads. Often, a manufacturer offers a pallet of colors at no additional charge – we just need to ask. If matching the color exactly is required, that too can be accomplished with a nominal set up charge and a color chip. Keep in mind the lead time will be increased with this request, so be sure to inquire as to how much.

I’m certain that you and the owner will be pleased with the touch of class this provides. After all, it is the small things that do make a difference.

- Patrick O'Flaherty