When your outdoor areas are welcoming and comfortable, it lets your guest know what to expect when they gather in your backyard, patio, or porch. With the increased popularity of entertaining alfresco, it’s not surprising that outdoor lighting is now as important as indoor lighting and is often designed the same way. Layering different types of lighting, considering color temperature, highlighting focal points, using dimmers, being mindful of glare, and experimenting with placement, are all considered when planning an outdoor environment that’s both functional and inviting.

Why Is Outdoor Lighting Ambience Important?

Although safety and curb appeal are important parts of outdoor lighting, there’s more to the story. It’s essential to have a well-planned outdoor area where family and friends can gather. Beautiful outdoor lighting can create a certain mood or atmosphere, whether it’s romantic, festive, or calming. It can give your home a welcoming ambiance that makes it home feel more inviting and approachable.

Sawyer Outdoor Rated 36 Inch Ceiling Fan with Light Kit by Hinkley Lighting

It’s easy to imagine relaxing under the soft glow of the rustic Sawyer Outdoor Rated 36 Inch Ceiling Fan with Light Kit by Hinkley Lighting and Sawyer 12 Inch Tall 2 Light Outdoor Wall Light. Its fresh design injects any outdoor living experience with the comfortable vibes of an indoor setting.

Types of Outdoor Lighting Fixtures

There are many types of outdoor lighting fixtures available, each with its own unique benefits and applications. The right combination of lighting fixtures will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types to consider when planning an outdoor area that is both functional and visually appealing.

Wall-mounted fixtures: These fixtures are attached to the exterior walls of your home or other buildings and can provide both functional and decorative lighting.

Outdoor ceiling lights: Used for porches, patios, and other covered areas. You can find hanging lights in a wide range of styles that offer varying levels of brightness.

Path lights: These fixtures are designed to illuminate walkways, driveways, and other paths. They come in a range of styles, including stake lights, bollard lights, and in-ground fixtures.

Landscape lights: Designed to highlight trees, shrubs, and other landscape features, these fixtures can be used to create dramatic effects or simply to provide subtle illumination.

Deck and patio lights: These fixtures are designed to be installed in or around decks and patios and can provide both functional and decorative lighting.

Crystorama Brian Patrick Flynn Capsule 10 Inch Tall Outdoor Wall Light

Capturing a moment in time, the futuristic Crystorama Brian Patrick Flynn Capsule 10 Inch Tall Outdoor Wall Light adds a touch of industrial grace to intimate conversation settings. These wall lights bring instant personality and make a unique statement.

Corbin 27 Inch Tall 6 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Capital Lighting Fixture Company

Warm in the winter and cool in the summer, this covered patio gives all the homey vibes. The warm glow of the fireplace is reflected in the Corbin 27 Inch Tall 6 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Capital Lighting Fixture Company and Corbin 22 Inch Tall 2 Light Outdoor Wall Light creating an inviting open-air entertainment setting.

Choose the Right Color Temperature for Outdoor Lighting

Understanding outdoor lighting color temperature will make your lighting plan more impactful. Consider that how you use the space will play a role in determining the right color temperature. For example, a warm temperature (2700K-3000K) may be more appropriate for an intimate seating area. If you are not replacing all of your fixtures, take a look at the existing lighting and try to match the color temperature as closely as possible. This will help keep the look cohesive and uniform.

Overbrook 17 Inch Tall 1 Light LED Outdoor Wall Light by Artcraft

Pergolas provide welcome shade during the day, but adding outdoor lighting intensifies the ambiance at night. A pair of sleek Overbrook 17 Inch Tall 1 Light LED Outdoor Wall Lights by Artcraft double the illumination under the pergola. Scaled perfectly, the craftsman influenced-design brings a relaxed attitude to this outdoor dining room.

Howell 21 Inch Tall 4 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Capital Lighting Fixture Company

Dining on the patio reaches new heights with the charming Howell 21 Inch Tall 4 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Capital Lighting Fixture Company and Howell 26 Inch Tall 3 Light Outdoor Wall Light. Floating beneath the bright white ceiling, this hanging lantern provides needed contrast that gives the space dimension.

Outdoor Lighting Layout and Placement for Optimal Effectiveness

Before you start installing exterior lighting, develop a lighting plan that outlines where each fixture will go and what type of lighting it will provide, including outdoor security lights. This helps ensure that your lighting is practical and the effect is stunning.

Consider the function: pathways, seating areas, and grilling areas need lighting for safety and functionality.

Add layers of light: just like indoors, exterior areas look best with a combination of task, accent, and ambient lighting.

Highlight focal points: this creates visual interest and adds depth to your lighting design.

Use appropriate spacing: correct spacing show off your exterior and avoids harsh, uneven lighting.

Consider lighting angles: install lights at the correct angle to illuminate the area and minimize glare.

Kuzco Lighting Kona 14 Inch Tall Outdoor Hanging Lantern

The moonlight glow of the Kuzco Lighting Kona 14 Inch Tall Outdoor Hanging Lantern offers cozy illumination to the seating area beneath it. The spherical mesh cage encircles an opal glass sphere that emits lighting exactly where needed.

Ideas and Tips for Creating a Cozy and Inviting Atmosphere with Outdoor Lighting

Cozy and inviting is the theme for homes these days, and that includes the outside areas. Warm white lights that mimic the glow of candlelight will give your porch or patio a sense of intimacy. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness, providing the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Consider placing lights at different heights and angles to create interest.

Freemont 10 Inch Tall 4 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Artcraft

It’s always a party on this covered porch with comfortable seating arranged in a classic pattern that fosters conversations. The Freemont 10 Inch Tall 4 Light Outdoor Hanging Lantern by Artcraft makes a statement, illuminating the porch at night and providing visual contrast with the neutral décor during the day.

Enhancing Your Landscaping and Garden with Outdoor Lighting

Once you have decided on your outdoor entertaining lighting, it’s time to think about your landscaping and garden lighting. Landscape lighting can add depth and dimension to your outdoor space. It can be used to highlight trees, shrubs, or other features that make your yard beautiful and inviting. Use uplighting to highlight the beauty of your trees, shrubs, and any special features in your landscaping. By incorporating lighting into your landscaping and garden design, you can extend your enjoyment of your exterior space well into the evening hours.

Hinkley Lighting Hardy Island 15 Inch Decorative Pathway Light & Republic 12 Inch Tall Outdoor Wall Light

Showing off the meticulous landscaping and special architectural features, the Hinkley Lighting Hardy Island 15 Inch Decorative Pathway Light and Republic 12 Inch Tall Outdoor Wall Light lets this exterior truly stand out. The cheerful lighting beckons guests in and encourages them to stay for a while.