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Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Transform Your Space

From cozy string light patios to dramatic landscape uplighting, discover hundreds of real customer photos, expert tips, and step-by-step guides. Plus, shop the exact products to recreate any look.


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How Many Landscape Lights Per Transformer

Understanding proper transformer sizing is essential for anyone planning a landscape lighting project. Choose a transformer that's too small, and you'll risk overloading the system, leading to dimmed lights, shortened fixture lifespans, and potential safety hazards. Learn more here!

What Is Dark Sky Compliant Outdoor Lighting

There are many things to consider when selecting landscape lighting for your home. Which types of light fixtures do you need? What is the best aesthetic to coordinate with your home? Another question to add to the list: Is the fixture dark-sky compliant? Wondering what that means? Find out here!

Design & Style Guides

Landscaping Ideas With Lights

Lighting should be an integral part of your landscape design for your home. A well-lit home has better curb appeal which can increase your home’s value. It’s also inviting for guests and your family.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas For Restaurants

Creating the perfect outdoor atmosphere is key to elevating the dining experience and lighting plays a major role in setting that tone. Whether you're working with a cozy patio, a sprawling terrace, or a rooftop lounge, the right lighting can add warmth, ambiance, and sophistication to any restaurant space.

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Outdoor Lighting Ideas

Lounge Lighting

Outdoor wall sconces are typically used for flanking front doors or to highlight architectural features of a home. However, an often overlooked use is to light a lounge area. These angular fixtures are unobtrusive by day but provide much-needed light after dark.

Cozy Vibes

A fire pit is a cozy focal point for an outdoor lounge area. However, the light from the fire alone is not enough lighting for an outdoor living area. A modern wall sconce with both up and down lighting will contribute to the warm vibe while providing adequate lighting levels.

A New Angle

You’ve heard of up lighting and down lighting, but have you ever considered an angled light fixture? These wall sconces deliver light where it is needed without creating glare. Their modern style fits in with the clean architecture of this home.

Level up with Modern Outdoor Lighting Ideas!

Dinner Under the Stars

Pendant lighting isn’t limited to the indoors. An elegant pendant with a drum shade provides lighting for an outdoor dining table. Make sure the pendant is UL listed for outdoor use.

Establishing the Framework

Outdoor pendants should be made of durable materials that can withstand the elements, especially for seaside properties. These powder-coated steel pendants feature a framework that suggest forms associated with more traditional interior pendant lights. Suspended above a daybed, they beckon for an intimate retreat.

Tall and Handsome

This super sleek post light features durable aluminum finishes that stand up to the elements. It becomes a statement piece within your landscape design. Position these lights along a pathway to orient your guests and lead them to focal points such as a pool.

Lit from Within

Large-scale pendants and coordinating wall sconces illuminate this two-story colonnade. The pendants reflect in the glass and, combined with the effect of interior fixtures, made the facade appear to glow.

Lighting in 3D

Many people just focus on lighting their front door, but you should consider lighting the exterior of your home in three dimensions. Not only do the fixtures showcase your home’s architecture, but they also provide landscape lighting and help your family and guests safely navigate the terrain.

Light as Art

Every midcentury modern home needs a statement exterior light fixture. This modern design by George Kovacs features aluminum bars that form an abstract composition. It proves that lighting can double as art and make your home stand out even more.

Repetition and Rhythm

Two wall sconces flank the front entrance of this home and then wrap the side to illuminate an outdoor seating area. The repetition of the same outdoor wall sconce creates a rhythm and provides continuity. By wrapping the side of the home, the lighting helps showcase its form.

Architectural Lighting

This modern, masculine exterior is complemented by stylish linear wall sconces. The vertical format works equally as well mounted on a column or a wall flanking an entrance. The fixtures integrate seamlessly with the home’s architecture, making for a custom look.

Get to Grouping

Outdoor pendants can be grouped just as you would inside your home. These vintage-inspired, drum-shaped pendants are made of durable and metal and glass, making them suitable for use both indoors and out. They help to delineate a cozy outdoor seating area.

Discover Gazebo Lighting Ideas!

Unexpected Forms

An ultramodern take on outdoor wall sconces, these fixtures feature a rectangular diffuser that emits a soft glow. It ties into the modern look of this home’s exterior, integrating seamlessly with the architecture.

Discover more Outdoor Patio Wall Lighting Ideas!

Safety First

If your entrance involves a set of stairs, consider integrated stair lighting to help your guests safely navigate the way. Here the stair fixtures are paired with a dark-sky compliant wall sconce that marks the front door. This lighting scheme is safe yet subtle, and won’t disrupt your neighbors or wildlife.

Explore additional Outdoor Stair Lighting Ideas!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between wet-rated and damp-rated outdoor lighting?

Wet-rated fixtures can handle direct exposure to rain and snow, perfect for open patios and uncovered areas. Damp-rated fixtures work well in covered spaces like porches, where moisture is present but there's no direct water contact.

How do I determine how many lumens I need for my outdoor space?

For pathways, aim for 100-200 lumens per fixture. Security lighting needs 700-1300 lumens. Accent lighting typically uses 50-300 lumens. Our lighting calculator can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific space.

Can I install outdoor lighting myself or do I need an electrician?

Simple projects like solar lights or plug-in string lights are DIY-friendly. However, any hardwired electrical work, especially for pool lighting or 120V systems, should be done by a licensed electrician for safety and code compliance.

What's the best height to hang string lights?

String lights should typically be hung 8-10 feet high for comfortable head clearance while providing good light coverage. For dining areas, 7-8 feet works well to create an intimate ambiance.

How do I choose between LED and traditional bulbs for outdoor lighting?

LED bulbs last 15-25 times longer than traditional bulbs, use 75% less energy, and perform better in cold weather. While the upfront cost is higher, LEDs save money long-term through reduced energy bills and replacement costs.

What color temperature is best for outdoor lighting?

Warm white (2700K-3000K) creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for entertaining areas. Cool white (4000K-5000K) provides better visibility for security and task lighting. Most homeowners prefer warm white for aesthetic outdoor lighting.

How do I weatherproof my outdoor lighting connections?

Use weatherproof wire nuts, seal all connections with electrical tape, and ensure junction boxes have proper gaskets. All outdoor electrical work should meet local codes - consult a professional if you're unsure about proper weatherproofing techniques.

Can outdoor lighting work with smart home systems?

Yes! Many outdoor lights now offer smart capabilities, including app control, voice commands, scheduling, and integration with systems like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Smart outdoor lighting adds convenience and can enhance security features.



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