Lighting Options To Create The Perfect Outdoor Setting

Your outdoor area needs the correct type of lighting, whether for an event, a party, or just aesthetics. The question is, how do you select the right lighting system for your needs?

Adding the right kind of lights can change your garden lights from boring to a hangout spot for all your friends. From pathway lights to spotlights, there is a perfect choice for every outdoor area.

But, since there are several options, it can get quite overwhelming. To simplify things, we’ve compiled this list that includes the most popular lighting options for outdoor areas. Let’s get started!

Lighting Options to Create the Perfect Outdoor Setting

If you are looking to brighten your home by installing outdoor lights, here are some ways you can do it:

1. Pathway Lighting

Pathway lighting is used in more scenarios than its name implies. They can be used around the garden beds, driveway entries or even next to your front gate. Aside from that, you do not have to worry about electricity with these lights as they power up during the day with solar energy.

The best part has to be how convenient they are to place. Just spike them into the ground, and you’re good to go.

2. Traditional/Classic Styles

If you own a cottage garden, focus on more classic pieces and styles rather than modern, minimalist styles. They enhance the garden’s aesthetic and go with the theme much better. Instead of placing these lights along the pathway, try fitting them among your plantings. This further increases the ambience in your garden, yard and even your porch.

3. Festive Entertainment Lights

If the main motive of your lighting style is a cosy, entertaining environment, then string lights are the way to go. They are common in most outdoor party settings. However, recently, the coloured, retro bulbs have been switched out for clear, white bulbs.

These beautiful lights look best when hung over the patio or veranda. You can either string them together or hang them in separate sections, whichever suits your style.

4. Ambient Light

A candlelight dinner is only delightful when there is the proper lighting. A decorative lantern is ideal for spending time outdoors with your loved ones and others. They come with yellow lights and set the mood effortlessly. Additionally, you can add smaller lighting, such as wax or battery-powered candles, to make the ambience more inviting.

For resort-style lighting, a popular option is the Tiki-style oil lantern. Besides being a good lighting source, using citronella oil in the lantern will keep unwanted insects, especially mozzies, away. This feature makes them ideal for outdoor settings and events.

5. Access Lighting

One significant advantage of lighting is safety. When you’re back from a night out, walking into your property in the pitch-black area can be pretty unsafe. Installing access lights by your porch, front door, or windows will make navigating safer and easier.

If you prefer traditional lighting, you can opt for exterior-quality lights with classic elements that suit your home infrastructure. Plenty of vintage-style lighting is available in most lighting stores. On the contrary, if you prefer a modern, minimalist look, go for clean-lined lights, like halogen lamps, that provide lighting without sticking out too much.

6. Spotlight Lighting

Do you have a garden you would love to show off? Or it could be a particular plant or tree that looks spectacular and needs to stand out. In such cases, you can use an upward-facing spotlight. They are ideally used in more tropical settings due to how well they bring out the texture and details in trunks and foliage.

To make things easier for you, contact an electrician and have them install exterior-quality lights outside your home that turn on and off with a timer. This way, you won’t have to remember to turn them on or off daily.

7. Recycled Material Lights

If you’re all about sustainable living, a light fixture made with recycled materials is the way to go. For instance, a lampshade made with the interior of a destroyed washing machine can be used as a spotlight. The metal tub may fit the place’s aesthetic and elevate the room’s look.

You can find similar recycled products on the market, or take it one step further and DIY it with materials from your home.

8. Utilitarian Lighting

Playing with different types of lights is essential to set the perfect mood. For instance, practical lighting near pathways or steps will make it much easier to see and navigate.

Mood lighting, however, is best suited for creating shadows and dimensions for the foliage and decor in your garden. A mix-and-match of different lighting will give your home the perfect outdoor environment.

9. Colour-Changing Lights

At certain times, plain white or yellow-hued lights can get pretty dull. If that’s the case with your lights, try switching them up with colour-changing lights. They are meant not only for holidays but for people who like having a change of lighting often. You can purchase the entire fixtures or separate lights and DIY them according to your style.

They are also easy to operate and have a special Bluetooth remote that lets you control the light colours and settings. You can get them in various models, from spotlights and path lights to outdoor lamps or LED strip lights. Some even offer the feature lighting of being programmed to flash according to the beat of the music.

Most colour-changing bulbs can be fixed to your existing light fixtures.

Which Globes Should You Choose?

Your choice of light fitting may determine the type of lightbulb you need to install.

Outdoor lighting globes come in various styles, materials, and types, such as LED and Halogen. LED globes are energy efficient and offer a broad colour spectrum, making them an ideal choice for outdoor lighting.

Halogen globes are typically more affordable but less energy efficient than LED ones. They offer a warm, yellowish light, perfect for creating cosy outdoor environments. LED and halogen globes are available in various sizes, shapes, and colours, so you can easily find the perfect globe for outdoor lighting. If unsure, speak to our electrician about the best outdoor lighting ideas or options for you.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Lighting: Key Considerations

When selecting the perfect outdoor lighting, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure you find the best fit for your needs and aesthetics. Understanding these elements will help you make an informed decision and guarantee the longevity of your chosen lighting solution.

Assessing Your Outdoor Space

Firstly, evaluate your outdoor area to understand the space’s requirements. Do you have a large garden or a small patio? Do you host regular parties or prefer quiet evenings alone? Each outdoor space has unique lighting needs that should guide your selection.

Lighting Purpose

Identify what purpose you want your outdoor lights to serve. Is it for aesthetics, functionality, or both? The reason behind installing lights can drastically influence the type of lights you should opt for.

Energy Efficiency

Consider the energy efficiency of different lights. Some light options, like LED globes, are more energy-efficient than others. Picking energy-efficient lights reduces environmental impact and cuts down on your electricity bills.

Durability

Outdoor lights need to withstand various weather conditions. Thus, choosing durable and weather-resistant lights is vital. Look for lights designed specifically for outdoor use to ensure they last longer.

Installation Process

The complexity of the installation process is another aspect to consider. Some lights are easy to install, like solar pathway lights that you spike into the ground. Others might require professional installation. Consider your comfort level with DIY projects or budget for hiring a professional.

Design and Aesthetics

The style of your lighting should complement your home’s overall aesthetic. From classic styles to modern minimalist designs, lighting options suit every home style.

Maintenance and Care for Outdoor Lights

Ensuring your outdoor lights continue to brighten your space involves more than just picking the right ones. Regular maintenance and care are crucial for their longevity and performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your outdoor lights.

Regular Cleaning

Over time, outdoor lights can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, hindering their brightness. Regularly clean your mornings with a soft, damp cloth to maintain luminosity.

Checking for Damage

Inspect your lights for any signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. Regular inspection lets you spot potential problems early and address them before they worsen.

Replacing Bulbs

Bulbs don’t last forever, so keep an eye on the luminosity of your lights. It may be time to replace the bulbs if they start to dim. Opt for energy-efficient options like LED bulbs, which last longer than traditional bulbs.

Weatherproofing

Invest in weatherproofing solutions for your outdoor lights. This could be as simple as buying lights with built-in weatherproof features or applying a protective sealant to your lights to protect them from the elements.

Remember, regular maintenance and care can significantly extend the life of your outdoor lights, making your space a bright and inviting place to be.

Brighten Up Your Outdoor Space With Perfect Lighting Options!

Agreed, lighting has to keep you safe and sound in your home and provide a means of navigation. But why restrict lighting to just that? You can find plenty of options that provide safety and add fun to your home!

We hope you made the right lighting choice for your outdoor space. If not, the professionals here at Bright Force Electrical can help. We help you choose the best lighting for your property and take care of the installation. We are committed to making your home the best-lit one in Sydney. So, give us a call today to discuss your outdoor lighting needs!

Are you renovating your home and want more lighting tips? Here are six great ideas to enhance your home’s lighting.

That’s all for this guide, see you next time!