Outdoor lighting might seem like an afterthought, but it's just as essential as the indoor variety. After all, you wouldn't furnish a home without adding lamps or chandeliers, so why not extend that commitment outside? Like indoor lighting, outdoor lighting has the power to completely transform the mood of a space. The right lighting can elevate an average backyard into a vibrant, inviting oasis — particularly crucial for any upcoming summer entertaining.
Just as we approach selecting the best outdoor furniture, we naturally desire our outdoor lighting to be equally practical and chic. According to interior designer Alessia Lamonaca, outdoor lighting should serve ‘as a statement piece that enhances the overall design aesthetic of your outdoor area.’ To that end, we're on the hunt for 'lights that feature sleek lines, geometric shapes, and unexpected textures to create visual interest.’ Think sculptural fixtures like modern sconces or minimalist lanterns ‘that command attention even when not illuminated’ in luxe materials such as brushed metal or weathered brass — all of which add so much ‘depth to your outdoor lighting scheme.’
Whether you're illuminating your backyard dining setup or enhancing your home's curb appeal, finding the perfect outdoor lighting is essential. After consulting experts and carefully considering factors like quality, function, and style, here are my top 12 bright ideas.
Explore Livingetc’s favorite outdoor kitchen ideas for further inspiration.
Best Outdoor Lighting
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Price: $59.97
Was: $199
Absolutely loving the texture of this cast aluminum flush mount. It feels organic, but with its polished brass finish, has a definitive luxe edge — as chic you would expect from a Ross Cassidy designed piece.
Price: $69
This charming light strand is a nod to French milk glass lamps, sitting happily between worldly and quaint. Perfect for adding a little whimsy to garden parties, outdoor celebrations, and casual al fresco dining alike.
From: $39.50
These frosted glass stones look like they were plucked from an enchanted fairytale. Purchase multiple in sizes ranging from small to large to define porches and garden paths, gracing your favorite areas with soft, functional illumination.
Price: $899
An elegant, vintage-inspired chandelier that goes outside? I mean, come on now! Featuring soft lines of iron and steel, complete with a durable water-resistant finish, it’s sure to be the star of the show at every outdoor dinner party to come.
Price: $299
Minimalists — this one’s for you. CB2’s pared back wall sconce mesmerizes with its simplicity. Clean and elongated, it’s a stunning addition to an entryway that becomes even more brilliant in travertine.
Price: $1,639.99
Outdoor floor lamps are hard to come by, especially those as chic as this. Naturally, I was thrilled to see this pick grace my screen: a beautiful — yet durable — blend of metal and rattan. Adds a refined coastal touch to backyards and balconies, and is the ideal accent to any outdoor living room.
Price: $399
Translucent alabaster looks absolutely ethereal in this orb shaped wall sconce. Its soft illumination reveals subtle veins in the natural material’s surface — pure art.
Price: $449
This intricate wicker weave makes for a mesmerizing outdoor dining focal point. Taking cues from humble fishing baskets, it feels laid-back and unpretentious while remaining elegant as ever.
Price: $449
Light posts like this reminisce ones you might find at manor or sprawling family estate. With its sleek lines and LED bulbs, it’s a modern riff on a classic lantern style. Place on either side of a doorway for a grand statement.
Price: $198
Aptly dubbed the ‘Eloise,’ this sconce has all of the antique-inspired sophistication one could ask for — and more. Its ornate intentionally weathered iron appears vaguely Parisian, lending a metropolitan cool feel to any exterior.
Price: $210
Don’t walk in the dark — illuminate your walkway with the chicest path light I could find. This modern garden idea stands directly into the ground, complimenting and enhancing any surrounding greenery while managing to stand out, thanks to its uniquely sleek design.
From: $329
Set the mood with a light fixture that serves as bonafide art. The unique eclipse-inspired piece looks great on its own and even better when spaced multiple evenly along the side of an outdoor wall.
WHERE SHOULD I PUT MY OUTDOOR LIGHTING?
Determining where to place your outdoor lighting is as crucial as selecting the lights themselves. According to Rafi Friedman, President of Coastal Luxury Outdoors, a good starting point is to focus on the lights for your home, particularly those near your doors. ‘The light fixtures by your doors set the tone and style for the rest of your outdoor space,’ he advises, ‘and ultimately last longer than other outdoor lighting options.’ He recommends choosing lights that complement your home's trim and style, including details like your doorknobs, for a cohesive look.
For outdoor entertaining, Rafi recommends hanging string lights. They create a magical, cinematic atmosphere, defining outdoor gathering spaces and providing soft light well into the night, explains the CEO. However, he notes that it often takes more string lights than expected to properly illuminate a space. His rule of thumb is ‘one bulb for every four square feet you intend to light.’ For example, a 400 square foot patio would require approximately 100 lights.
If you have specific features in your outdoor space that you want to highlight, interior designer Artem Kropovinsky suggests using spotlights. ‘Try to emphasize the treasures of your garden, such as an old tree or a peaceful pond,’ he advises. ‘Illuminate the shadows and routes with the help of lights, therefore, making the outdoor space safe and magical.’
Transform your backyard into a luxurious retreat with these resort-style outdoor furniture picks — no travel required.
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