15+ Best Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Front of House

Outdoor illumination is an often-overlooked yet essential element that breathes life into our cherished external environments. As a visual enhancement and security feature, exterior lighting lets us comfortably enjoy our outdoor spaces in the evening.

As a passionate lighting designer at Rowabi with over 3 years of experience analyzing trends in lighting and interior transformation, I've spent extensive time researching to identify influential upcoming trends that shape the trajectory of outdoor design.

Spoiler alert: This year is a breakout year for outdoor lighting ideas and trends. Based on multiple industry reports and expert analyses, I’ve distilled key insights on dominant trends influencing modern homes and gardens.

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What to consider before installing outdoor lights

Before installing outdoor lighting, consider several factors carefully. Here's a detailed guide on what to consider:

Purpose and functionality

Outdoor lighting serves different purposes based on the setting. In residential areas, it enhances landscaping, improves nighttime safety, and adds ambiance to outdoor spaces.

Outdoor lighting is essential for commercial spaces like stores and offices. It ensures customer safety, highlights entrances, and extends indoor design aesthetics outdoors.

Clarifying how you plan to use each illuminated area will help create a focused and efficient shortlist of lighting options tailored to specific needs and functions.

Accent areas

Identifying the specific areas of your yard that you want to highlight will impact your selection of lighting fixtures. For instance, spotlighting works well for showcasing fountains and statues, while well-lit is ideal for illuminating trees and bushes.

Having a clear vision of your yard's focal points will enable you to choose the ideal lighting fixtures

Cre: Rowabi's customer | Kloe Rattan Pendant Light and Elaine Rattan Pendant Light

Desired style

Determining the style you want to pursue for your home and the outdoor ambiance you aim to create is crucial. It's important to assess whether these styles align and complement each other.

If you prefer a cohesive look between indoor and outdoor spaces, opt for matching or closely related styles. On the other hand, if you prefer diversity and distinctiveness between areas, consider complementary or contrasting styles to make a striking impression.

Types of lighting fixtures

After determining the style, you'll need to select from various types of lighting fixtures, such as track lighting, moonlighting, lamps, pendant lights, and more.

Each lighting fixture comes in different shapes, colors, and materials. It's important to consider its appearance and whether it matches the furniture and elements you have or are aiming for, especially when it comes to tables, chairs, and flooring colors.

The size of the fixtures

The size of lighting fixtures is just as important as their appearance. Avoid selecting fixtures that obstruct doorways, as this can detract from a welcoming, visually pleasing entrance. Instead, opt for lighting solutions that complement your home's architecture and layout while allowing unobstructed access.

Lighting color with landscape

When considering lighting for a patio, terrace, or low retaining wall, it's important to choose fixtures that complement the color scheme of your hard landscaping. This ensures a cohesive and harmonious look that enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

Protection rating

Before selecting garden lights, it's crucial to consider their IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates their resistance to solids and water. An IP65 rating signifies that the lights are highly protected and suitable for all weather conditions. This ensures durability and performance in outdoor settings.

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Explore the 15 outdoor lighting ideas and trends

So, we've covered essential factors to consider when planning outdoor lighting. Next, let's explore 15 ideas that you can apply to illuminate your outdoor area and create a relaxing space for your home.

Smart technology: lighting at your fingertips

In my observation, smart lighting solutions define this year's outdoor lighting ideas. They enable remote control and automation of lighting systems via smartphone apps. With a tap on your phone, you can switch lights on and off, adjust modes and brightness levels, and schedule auto-day and auto-night modes suited to activity schedules.

Coupled with motion and light sensors, the lighting system automatically adapts to ambient conditions. I believe many households should adopt this lighting trend of the future.

Add lights under each step you take

In some homes, adding stairs can create divisions within the garden and enhance its depth. Installing lights underneath each step can be interesting and practical, providing a beautiful glow and increasing safety.

To avoid wiring costs, consider affordable solar step lights that not only illuminate outdoor steps but also add an attractive aesthetic to your garden.

Sustainable illumination: A green revolution

According to scientific evidence, sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies will guide outdoor house lighting ideas. This movement intends to minimize environmental footprints via efficient energy use and the adoption of recyclable materials.

As a raw material, rattan blends into outdoor settings, creating a harmonious experience and balanced aesthetic for your home. Cre: Rowabi's customer | Sepherina Rattan Pendant Light.

Manufacturers are expected to prioritize recyclable materials such as glass, wood, bioplastics, and metals over non-recyclable plastics or composites.

A notable example of this trend is the increasing popularity of rattan pendant lights, which are made from sustainable rattan palm, a rapidly renewable resource. These eco-friendly fixtures enhance outdoor aesthetics with natural rustic charm and emit a warm, inviting glow.

Artistic outdoor lamps

In recent years, artistic outdoor lamps have trended as sculptural centerpieces, transmitting creative flair. As tastemakers increasingly seek outdoor light fixtures that mirror interior designer aesthetics, avant-garde statement lamps enable homeowners to distinguish exterior areas through artistic brilliance.

From flowing organic forms to geometric contours, abstract modernist lamps add dimensional dynamism matched by illuminative visual intrigue.

Expertly crafted using weather-resistant materials like fiberglass, concrete, tempered glass, or teak wood, these designer-centric creations promise enduring spotlight-stealing impact.

Patio string lights spark cosy allure

Patio string lights are emerging as a popular choice, providing customized toasty atmospheres that align with outdoor lighting trends. As an affordable outdoor lighting solution, these minimalist fixtures allow homeowners to stylize spaces according to their aesthetic preferences.

Patio string lights create a romantic atmosphere for the entire area. Cre: @zoneteen12 via Freepik: https://www.freepik.com/author/zoneteen12

From clear bulb filament variants that match modern aesthetics to cafe bulb styles that emit a vintage vibe, string lights offer extensive personalization potential.

Homeowners can select colors like warm white, funky multi-hues, or color-changing options to express their individuality. Even lighting temperature and dimmable functionality promote tailored experiences.

Metallic garden lights radiate refined elegance

Metallic garden lights in brass, copper, and nickel finishes will be considered refined, trending outdoor lighting elements that infuse sophistication into modern landscapes.

As tastemakers seek premium external fixtures that align with interiors, metallic luminaries create an aura of timeless elegance. From antique brass sconces lining pathways to oil-rubbed bronze spotlights illuminating architectural facets, metallic lighting adds a touch of burnished brilliance.

Expertly shaped using weather-resistant copper, zinc, or stainless steel, these luxe statements promise enduring magnificence.

Vibrant underwater pool lighting makes waves

Colourful underwater pool lighting will make waves in outdoor lighting trends by transporting aquatic elegance into residential landscapes.

As homeowners seek to elevate mundane pools into spectacle sanctuaries mirroring luxury resorts, chromatic subaquatic fixtures enable atmospheres of dynamic wonder.

The swimming pool also needs to be illuminated to create a soft, mystical light. Cre: @mrsiraphol via Freepik: https://www.freepik.com/author/mrsiraphol

From gentle dappling hues caressing surfaces to saturated laser, it shows illuminating waves in sync with audio, and colored LED pool lights transform water into an artist's canvas.

Weatherproof underwater luminaires feature built-in diodes in a wide range of blues, greens, magentas, and ambers for customized displays.

Diffused wall lights emanate subtle sophistication

The rise of diffused wall light fixtures signals a movement towards understated elegance in outdoor lighting. The trend has continued to this point. As homeowners seek softer tonal illumination that aligns with muted modern interiors, unassuming external wall lights create an aura of restrained grace.

Enabled by translucent materials such as pebbled glass, fine mesh, and woven textiles, diffused wall luminaires emit a delicate ambient glow onto surfaces, eschewing harsh glare.

Beyond restrained radiance, several diffused lights offer automation and smart controls for added functionality. Features like motion-sensing, timed shut-offs, and graduated dimming support convenience and align with sustainability goals.

Hardscape lighting contours garden landmarks

Hardscape lighting is trending to elegantly contour garden landmarks as part of outdoor light fixture installations. As homeowners seek to aesthetically emphasize permanent garden features, strategic illumination of hard boundaries enables showcasing masonry finesse after dark.

From subtly spotlighting stone pathways, timber decks, and brick fireplaces to grazing urban water features, mood lighting along fixed hardscaping adds scenic dynamism.

Using focused, glare-free fixtures, ambient glow accentuates textures, shapes, and profiles - transforming spaces into atmospherically engaging venues.

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Seamless inside-outside styles connect transitional living

For years, seamless indoor-outdoor design continuity has been trending through creative crossovers in outdoor lighting fixtures. As boundaries blur between interior and exterior realms, synchronized lighting conceptualizes spaces as holistic atmospheres promoting free-flowing lifestyles.

Using cohesive forms, matching color palettes, and material treatments, contemporary luminaires manifest as aesthetic bridges between realms. For instance, angular metal sconces emit identical, crisp white glows in living rooms and patios, visually expanding spaces into one another through duplicative styling.

Include a modern pendant light

Pendant lights aren't just for indoor use—they can also be fantastic outdoor lighting options. Nowadays, people enjoy creating cozy corners on their patios or porches, where they can sit together and enjoy nature, or gather each evening for conversations and fresh air.

Modern light fixtures outdoor not only add a focal point but also illuminate activities, making gatherings more meaningful. Opt for chic, simple pendant lights like the Arthur White Conical Pendant Light for a stylish outdoor lighting option.

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Sprinkle in some candles

Not all modern outdoor light fixtures need to be extravagant; candles are one of the most affordable and aesthetic options. Candles emit a gentle and soothing light that creates a relaxed atmosphere for users.

Placing candles on tables is the simplest approach, or you can use candle lanterns hanging from large nearby trees. Consider lanterns with glass panels to shield the flame from wind while adding warm, flickering light to your surroundings.

There are many other options to explore, such as candle wall sconces or electric candles. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference and desired ambiance.

Combine fans with lighting

To achieve a minimalist and efficient outdoor space, consider using fans with integrated lighting. This outdoor lighting idea is popular today and offers various options, including fans with built-in lights or the option to attach string lights to fan blades at home.

Keep in mind that these fans provide ambient rather than bright illumination, so you may need to supplement with additional accent lighting, such as lamps, for nighttime activities. Despite this, they remain a space-saving and practical solution for optimizing your outdoor area.

Cre: @EyeEm via Freepik: https://www.freepik.com/author/EyeEm

Take care of the garden's lighting

For homes boasting thriving gardens, adding lights among the foliage can elevate the garden's appeal and leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Installing garden lights that automatically illuminate at dusk accentuates the vibrant greenery and blossoms, enriching the natural allure of your residence.

Common options include uplighting prominent trees and shrubs to accentuate their stature, or installing path lights in areas with uniform plantings to guide visitors.

For an air of mystery, backlighting or moonlighting can be chosen, casting a soft, otherworldly glow for a poetic touch.

Create a cozy place with a gas fire pit

If you have an outdoor patio or open seating area with sofas, consider adding a gas fire pit. It simulates the experience of a real fire with flickering lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering and sparking heartfelt conversations.

Its benefits include affordability, no need for electricity, and no smoke or smell, making it suitable for the whole family.

Cre: @valentinplugarug via Freepik: https://www.freepik.com/author/valentinplugarug

Plan out your landscape lighting ideas

Above, I mentioned a few examples of using lights in the garden, but several more steps are involved. Here, let's discuss the key steps to consider when planning your landscape lighting ideas:

• Assess your space: Begin by evaluating your outdoor area, considering walkways, garden beds, trees, and seating areas.
• Set specific goals: Define the purpose of your lighting. Are you aiming solely to enhance the beauty of your garden, or do you also want to increase visibility for easier navigation and ensure safety around your home? Establishing your goals will shape your lighting decisions.
• Choose the appropriate lighting techniques: Select appropriate techniques based on your goals and landscape features. Common options include:
  • Uplighting: Illuminating trees, shrubs, or architectural elements from below.
  • Path Lighting: Installing lights along walkways or garden paths.
  • Downlighting: Mounting lights high in trees or on structures.
  • Accent Lighting: Highlighting specific focal points like statues or water features.
• Choose light fixtures based on your personal preferences and needs. If you want a focal point, consider pendant lights. For a softer ambiance, opt for string lights or lanterns that provide gentle illumination.
• Create a lighting placement plan: Sketch a detailed plan showing where each fixture will be placed and how they will interact with the landscape. Ensure proper spacing to avoid over-lighting or glare.
• Balance and layer lighting: Strive for a balanced distribution of light across your landscape. Use different types of lighting (ambient, task, accent) to create depth and visual interest.

Careful planning is essential to ensure that the lighting elements blend harmoniously together. Cre: Rowabi | Lucian Rattan Pendant Light and Aurelia Rattan Pendant Light.

FAQs: Buying guide - outdoor lighting

What are the prominent outdoor lighting trends?

• I believe sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies will dominate trends.

How to incorporate smart lighting solutions into my outdoor space?

• Explore remote control and automation features for lighting on your terms.

Are there specific design aesthetics trending in outdoor lighting?

• Yes, modern and visually appealing designs are gaining popularity.

What role do technological advancements play in outdoor lighting trends?

• They shape functionality and enhance user experiences for a futuristic feel.

How to make eco-friendly choices when selecting outdoor lighting solutions?

• Consider green options such as recycled materials and reduced energy consumption.

What are the different types of exterior/outdoor lighting?

• There are various types of exterior lighting, including path lights, sconces, step lights, landscape spotlights, pendant lights, and so on.

How much does exterior lighting cost?

• The cost of exterior lighting can vary significantly depending on the type of fixtures, their quality, and the complexity of the installation. Basic fixtures typically start around $20 to $50, while high-end or custom fixtures can range from $100 to $500 or more per unit.

How do I choose an outdoor light fixture color?

• When selecting a color for your outdoor light fixtures, opt for a shade that complements your home's exterior. Popular choices include black, bronze, brushed nickel, or white.

How many watts do I need for outdoor lighting?

• The wattage required for outdoor lighting depends on the area size and the desired brightness level. As a general rule, aim for 10-20 watts per square foot for ambient lighting. Task or security lighting may require higher wattage.

What are the safety features of outdoor lighting?

• Key safety features for outdoor lighting include weather-resistant construction (indicated by IP rating), ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection in wet areas, and motion sensors or timers for energy efficiency and security enhancement

What is the best outdoor lighting material?

• Durable, weather-resistant materials such as aluminum, brass, stainless steel, and copper are excellent choices for outdoor lighting fixtures.

What size exterior lights do I need?

• Choose exterior lights proportionate to the size of your outdoor space and the scale of your home's architecture.

How much does it cost to have outdoor lights installed?

• The cost of installation can vary based on the project's complexity, accessibility, and local labor rates. On average, installation costs for outdoor lighting range from $200 to $1,000 or more.

What maintenance does outdoor lighting need?

• Regular maintenance for outdoor lighting includes cleaning fixtures, checking and replacing bulbs as needed, inspecting wiring and connections for safety, and finally adjusting or repositioning fixtures as needed.

Final thoughts

These 15+ outdoor lighting ideas are sure to be a valuable source of inspiration on your journey to illuminate your home. As a lighting designer, I'm excited to witness the stunning results of your endeavors, bringing to life beautiful spaces that are as happy as a dream