38 Stylish Outdoor Lighting Ideas

A well-lit landscape should have both functional and decorative lighting. Safe navigation and security are the critical functions of outdoor lighting, but you also want lighting that accentuates your architecture and provides curb appeal. In the front and side yards, wall sconces, lanterns and pathway lights provide clear passage along walkways and leading up to doorways. Spotlights facing up or down can be used to boost your nighttime curb appeal or simply illuminate your driveway. In the backyard, lighting up your entertaining space can be done in several ways. You can spend a lot of money illuminating your decks, patios and pool or you can get a lot of the same effects with budget options and crafty DIYs.

When it comes to lighting trends, there are a lot of new tech options available for outdoor lighting beyond smart-enabled and motion-sensor security lights. Customizable color lights allow you to select a color scheme for different holidays, occasions or your favorite team. Bluetooth-enabled lights will flash to the beat of your music, and there are even floating light orbs that can be added to a swimming pool or water feature.

No matter how you illuminate the exterior of your home, make sure you’re not contributing to light pollution. Light pollution makes it impossible or nearly impossible to see the night sky in populated areas. Plus, too much artificial light can affect human health, wildlife and is a waste of energy. Many communities are implementing dark sky initiatives and codes to regulate light pollution. Dark-sky-friendly lighting is shielded (points downward) and contains minimal blue light. Blue lights brighten the sky more than any other color. The International Dark Sky Association (DSA) suggests using lighting that is warm or a lower color temperature — no more than 3,000 Kelvins (the higher the Kelvin, the bluer it is). When shopping for new lighting, look for the Dark Sky Approved seal. The DSA provides a list of manufacturers that sell dark-sky-approved products.

Cove lighting ingeniously placed under the steps and along the elevated platforms makes it easy to navigate this multi-level yard. Glowing egg-shaped orbs add a high-end, whimsical touch to the modern space.

Each section of this yard is illuminated in its own way for safety, style and function. Large planters with built-in LED lights illuminate the pathway along the pool. The steps up to the lounge-chair platform and dining areas are lit with small lights on the stair risers to prevent a trip hazard. The living and dining areas are set aglow with sconces while the tabletops are given extra radiance with candles and lanterns.

High-density structural foam was used to create this lightweight hilly yard on an urban rooftop. Delicate pin lights were installed in the synthetic turf for ambiance and style. The hilly forms were purposely shaped for comfortable seating when star gazing.