Let There Be (Outdoor) Light: Tips For Adding Practical and Beautiful Lighting To Your Outdoor Space
As the days grow longer and patio season returns in full force, let’s think beyond plants and patio furniture. Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the way your space feels and functions—especially when eating and entertaining outdoors. The right lighting not only adds atmosphere, it enhances safety, highlights architectural details, and extends the usability of your outdoor space well past sunset. And let’s be honest—after months of hibernation, the chance to sit outside without wearing a parka feels like a small miracle.
Now, if you’re picturing a single motion-sensor floodlight and calling it a day, we need to talk. Because much like indoor spaces, outdoor areas benefit from thoughtful layers—and yes, a little drama.
Think in Layers, Not Just Lumens
Good lighting, like a great dinner party, needs a mix of elements to really shine.
Ambient Lighting - Set the Mood
Think of ambient lighting as your outdoor backdrop—it creates a warm, welcoming glow that invites people in (well, out). Wall sconces and soffit pot lights, like the ones pictured here, cast soft, even illumination that enhances safety without feeling harsh.
In this photo: list the lights with links
Task Lighting - Shine Where It Matters
Task lighting is all about function—perfect for grilling, dining, or late-night card games. The key is placing light exactly where you need it. Think: portable table lamps that double as centerpieces, or subtle fixtures near prep zones. Bonus points if your lighting makes a statement while it works hard.
In this photo: list the lights with links
Accent Lighting - Add The Finishing Touch
Accent lighting brings personality to your space. It’s the candlelight equivalent of the lighting world—soft, strategic, and mood-setting. A sleek floor lamp in a cozy corner or petite table lights tucked into floral arrangements show how a little glow can go a long way.
In this photo: list the lights with links
The Whole Vibe
Outdoor lighting isn’t just about seeing—it’s about setting a mood. Whether you're hosting a big night or enjoying a quiet glass of wine once the kids are down, the right glow makes everything feel more intentional.
I’m also a big fan of portable lanterns that can be charged indoors and placed wherever you need them—on the ground, on a table, or even hung from a tree branch if you’re feeling extra. (Bonus: no extension cords snaking through your garden like a trip hazard waiting to happen.)
Design Tip: Coordinate, Don’t Match
Just like your indoor lighting likely didn’t all come from one collection, your outdoor lighting can be a mix of pieces that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy. This is where material choices—think blackened metal, warm wood, or soft matte finishes—can really shine. (Yes, pun intended.)
The Takeaway
As we head into longer evenings and barefoot living, now’s the perfect time to refresh your outdoor setup. Start small if you need to— two or three well-placed lanterns can do more than you think. And if you’re building or renovating, bring outdoor lighting into the plan early. It’s one of those details that people don’t always notice when it’s done well, but they definitely notice when it’s missing.
Need help lighting your outdoor space just right?
A design consult can help you choose the right pieces, layer your lighting like a pro, and create a space that shines long after sunset.