Adding and enhancing the lighting around the exterior of your home can change the atmosphere, make your yard more fun to enjoy, and provide additional security. Some lighting can be functional and make your property easier to navigate, while other types of lights invite a more welcoming and cozy setting for guests. Between lighting pathways, porches, and patios, there are many opportunities to redefine your home with light.

General Lighting Tips

Before you get started, make sure you understand some lighting basics. Low-voltage lighting is a safer alternative, especially when installing your own fixtures. It also consumes less power, making it more energy efficient. Solar-powered lighting is another energy-efficient option, especially if your yard receives a lot of natural light. Plus, since solar-powered lights don't need to connect to your home's electrical system, you can place them in a wider variety of locations without needing to stress about extension cords or burying cables.

Lights placed on or near the ground with a light beam aimed toward the sky are called uplighting, while lights that are placed higher up and angled toward the ground are called downlighting. Lightbulbs come in different shades: orange or yellow tones are considered warm light, while blue or white tones are cool. Cool shades of light are often best for safety lighting, as they're brighter and can increase visibility. Warm light can seem more cozy and welcoming, which makes it best suited for lounge areas. Some light bulbs are not meant to be used outside, especially in damp, wet, or cold weather. Make sure to check the UL label before buying a bulb to determine what it's rated for.

Lighting for Safety

If you're just beginning to add lights to the exterior of your home, it's practical to start with strategies that improve your sense of security. Floodlights illuminate large spaces with bright, cool light that can make it easier to walk around in the dark, as well as discouraging to trespassers. Adding a motion sensor can provide additional peace of mind. Putting your lights on a timer or installing a smart system with a schedule means you won't need to pay attention to when the sun sets to turn your lights on. Automated lighting also means you won't forget to turn your lights back off when they're no longer needed, which can conveniently improve your home's energy efficiency.

Adding lights along pathways, stairs, doors, and entry points can reduce the possibility that you or any of your guests trip while outside. If you install path lighting, use downward-facing lights to avoid temporarily blinding those who walk by. Whether your address numbers are on a mailbox or near your front door, adding a spotlight or a sconce is a great way to ensure your house is easy to find from the street. Mailbox and path lighting along your driveway can also help drivers navigate in the dark, especially if your drive is curved or long.

Atmospheric Lighting

When trying to improve the ambience in your outdoor lounge areas, a combination of warm-toned bulbs and attractive light fixtures will best set the mood. Overhead lighting is often most efficient for covered patios and pergolas, but you may want to consider using dimmable lights to control the intensity. Lantern lighting is a versatile option, as lantern designs come as wall sconces, table lamps, or standing floor lamps. Matching the style across different light fittings can give your outdoor space a cohesive, blended look.

String lights are a great solution for small outdoor spaces or places without the ability to hardwire electronics. They can be draped or hung over walls or shelves. Some string lights are sold as curtains, which can make installation easier, since you won't need to place and attach individual strands. Mason jars or other clear containers are great for battery-powered lights that provide a little extra decorative glow on side tables.

Lighting to Boost Curb Appeal

A combination of uplighting and downlighting can add more depth to the look of your home and improve curb appeal. Lighting placed under the eaves will highlight your roofline, while small ground spotlights like bullet or well lights can highlight architectural features or unique landscaping. Consider spotlighting trees with uplighting or mounting a downlight among higher branches. Garden lights are great for showcasing flower beds, herb gardens, and stylistic hedges, while also doubling as path lights.

When positioning lights, make sure the light fixtures are not too close together. Experiment with placement and compare where the beam of light falls—less overlap between light beams is more efficient and helps naturally direct sightlines around your property.