Outdoor lights are the perfect way to highlight areas of interest, as well of course, as being useful wayfinding and functional part of any outdoor area at night. Because outdoor lights are designed for durability, in many cases they can be used to create an interesting design element as part of the overall outdoor aesthetic.

Outdoor lights, like many other architectural products, are available in a vast number of forms, materials, sizes and outputs so it’s not always easy to know where to begin. Here are a few key points to consider when choosing outdoor lighting.

What style of outdoor light works with the building?

The first thing to consider is the architectural style of the building. Is it sleek and contemporary? Is it traditional? Or is it unique in style? The style of building will generally play an important role in determining what style of outdoor lighting will work best within the design context. 

For example, a very traditional style of home with large garden areas may suit outdoor lanterns or outdoor string lights, while a more contemporary house with the limited garden area may be better suited to subtle outdoor sensor lights. 

More traditional outdoor lighting often incorporates ornate and decorative elements such as curvature and sculptural forms. 

In general, contemporary outdoor lighting embodies a more minimal style with sleek lines and geometric aspects. 

The style of outdoor lighting chosen will add a significant element to an outdoor space and create a sense of drama and ambience. 

How much light is required?

Considering the level of light required for different outdoor areas is another important point to determine before choosing outdoor lighting. For example, an entertaining or pool area may need more light than an entrance walkway and therefore the style of lighting chosen may be different based on these differing requirements. 

Choosing the right outdoor lighting for an entrance area

There are various options for entrance lighting. If the requirement is to softly illuminate the front door, it may be that ceiling light is chosen and placed in the eaves above to provide a more subtle illumination as people enter the home. Alternatively, a bolder form of front door lighting is a wall light that will provide high levels of illumination to the entranceway. In many cases, entrance lighting is used in conjunction with a sensor system to turn on only when the area is in use.

Using outdoor lighting as a feature

If there are certain elements of the exterior of the home or garden that stand out, it can be worth considering a customised lighting solution for these areas. Having light directed to these areas can provide a dramatic feature and highlight the striking elements of the exterior design.

For example, LED strip lighting running along the eaves of an area adjacent to an entertaining area can create a stunning visual appeal. In the same way, running outdoor LED or solar lights around parts of the landscaping can draw the eye to specific features. 

Up or downlights can create a real sense of drama, illuminating only certain forms while leaving others in the shadows.

Designing a lighting plan

In many cases, the best outcome is achieved by planning an overall outdoor lighting plan where each luminaire is specified as part of a unified scheme. Working with a lighting designer or landscape design professional can help to achieve the best results. 

Types of outdoor lighting and their uses

Outdoor wall lighting is available in many different styles spanning up and downlights (those that are used to illuminate different architectural aspects) to cube lighting and tubular wall lights. If the area requiring illumination is not near a wall, the options continue to diversify. 

Bollards (lights attached to poles)  are a good option for lighting entertaining areas and patios where various light sources are required in different areas. Smaller bollards are also commonly favoured for illuminating walkways and lower garden areas and edges. 

Similarly, floodlights are another option, but in residential settings floodlights are generally only used in larger areas of landscaping where a certain element or feature is to be highlighted.