Outdoor wall lighting is not only a functional addition to your lovely outdoor space, but it can also enhance the general aesthetics of your property. From highlighting home features to providing illumination for outdoor activities, outdoor wall lighting is important in creating a welcoming and safe outdoor environment.
But choosing the best outdoor lighting for your space can be overwhelming, given the many styles, sizes, and designs available. In this post, you’ll find some of the best outdoor wall lighting ideas to transform your dull outdoor space into a beautiful, vibrant, inviting oasis.
Whether you want to create a cozy ambiance on your patio or highlight your home’s architectural elements, there are many outdoor lighting ideas that can do wonders. From contemporary and minimalist designs to traditional and rustic styles, there is a perfect outdoor wall lighting option for every taste and preference.
Therefore, if you’d like to add a touch of style to your front porch or illuminate your backyard for evening gatherings, read on to discover the best outdoor wall lighting ideas.
1. Lantern-Style Fixtures
Lantern-style fixtures are a classic and timeless option for outdoor lighting. They come in many styles and finishes, making them a versatile choice that can fit any home’s exterior design. Lantern-style fixtures can be mounted on walls, pillars, or even hung from the ceiling, making them an excellent option for illuminating walkways, entryways, or outdoor living spaces.
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Another excellent benefit of lanterns is that they can provide a traditional and warm look to your home’s exterior. Their soft, ambient light can create a welcoming ambiance for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening on your patio. Also, they are a great option for adding curb appeal to your home, as they can add a splash of sophistication and elegance to your outdoor space.
Additionally, lantern-style fixtures are often designed with durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements, ensuring they will last for years.
2. Wall Sconces
Wall sconces are a versatile and stylish option for outdoor wall lighting. They can be easily mounted on the exterior walls of your home, illuminating your outdoor space while adding a decorative touch to your home’s exterior design. Wall sconces also come in various styles, from sleek and modern to traditional and ornate, allowing you to choose the perfect fixture to match your home’s aesthetic.
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One of the benefits of using wall sconces for outdoor lighting is that they can be conveniently used to highlight the architectural features of your home. Whether you want to get attention to a unique design element or add depth and dimension to a flat wall, wall sconces can be strategically placed to create a beautiful visual effect.
They can also illuminate walkways and entryways, making your outdoor space safer and more inviting for guests. Outdoor sconces are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the outdoor elements, ensuring they will last for years with minimal maintenance.
Wall sconces are a versatile choice for outdoor lighting. They can highlight architectural features, illuminate paths, and walkways, or create a warm and inviting ambiance on a patio or deck.
3. Floodlights
Floodlights are a powerful and practical option for outdoor wall lighting. They are designed to provide a wide beam of bright light, making them ideal for illuminating large outdoor spaces such as driveways, parking lots, garage doors, and backyards. Floodlights can also be used to enhance your home’s security by illuminating dark areas around your property, deterring potential intruders, and making it easier for you to see any possible threats.
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One of the benefits of using floodlights for outdoor wall lighting is that they can be directed to shine light exactly where it’s needed. This makes them handy and versatile options that can be customized to fit the outdoor space. Floodlights can also be paired with motion sensors, allowing them to automatically turn on when someone enters the area, providing an added layer of security and making your outdoor space more energy efficient.
Modern solar floodlights are often designed with energy-efficient LED bulbs, reducing energy costs while providing powerful lighting for your outdoor space.
4. Recessed Lighting
Recessed lights are a sleek and modern option for outdoor wall lighting. They are usually designed to be mounted flush with the surface of your exterior walls, creating a subtle and unobtrusive lighting solution that can be used to highlight beautiful architectural features or create a warm and inviting ambiance on your patio or deck. Recessed lights come in various styles and finishes, allowing you to choose the perfect fixture to match your home’s exterior design.
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One of the benefits of using recessed lights for outdoor lighting is that they are a discreet option that won’t detract from your home’s overall aesthetic. They are perfect for homeowners who love to create a streamlined and contemporary look for their outdoor space. Recessed lights can also create a layered lighting design, with multiple fixtures placed strategically around your outdoor space to provide both task and ambient lighting.
Recessed lights are often designed with durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements, ensuring they will last for years with minimal maintenance.
5. LED Strip Lights
LED strip lights are a fun and unique option for outdoor wall lighting. They are versatile and customizable, allowing you to create different colors and patterns that can be used to create a festive ambiance for outdoor gatherings. LED strip lights are often flexible and easy to mount, making them an ideal option for homeowners who intend to add a pop of color and personality to their outdoor space.
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One of the prime benefits of using LED strip lights for outdoor lighting is that they are energy-efficient and long-lasting. LED lights usually use less power than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them an excellent option for homeowners who intend to reduce their energy costs while enjoying a well-lit outdoor space.
LED lights are also designed to last a long time, with some bulbs rated for up to 50,000 hours (about five and a half years) of use. So, you need not worry about constantly replacing burned-out bulbs, saving you time and money in the long run.
6. Up and Down Lights
Up and downlights are a stylish and modern option for outdoor lighting. As the name suggests, these fixtures are designed to emit light upwards and downwards, creating a dramatic and eye-catching lighting effect on your home’s exterior. Up and downlights are often made from durable materials like metal or aluminum to withstand outdoor elements and last for years.
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One of the benefits of using up-and-down lights for outdoor lighting is that they are versatile and can be utilized to create different lighting effects. Depending on the placement and angle of the fixture, up and down lights can be used to highlight specific architectural features, such as columns or stonework. This lighting can also create a warm and inviting ambiance on your deck or patio.
Up and downlights are often designed with energy-efficient LED bulbs, reducing energy costs while providing powerful lighting for your outdoor space. Additionally, many up-and-down lights can be paired with a dimmer switch, letting you adjust the lighting to suit your needs and create the ideal atmosphere for any occasion.
7. Pendant Lights
Pendant lights are an elegant and stylish option for outdoor wall lighting. These fixtures are suspended from a chain or cord, allowing them to hang at various heights and creating a unique and eye-catching design element for your outdoor space. Pendant lights usually come in a wide range of styles, from rustic and industrial to modern and minimalist; therefore, you can find the perfect fixture to complement your home’s exterior design.
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One of the benefits of using pendant lights for outdoor lighting is that they can create a focal point in your outdoor space. By choosing a statement pendant light, you can draw attention to specific areas, such as an outdoor dining area or a cozy seating nook. Also, pendant lights are a great option for adding style and elegance to your outdoor space, creating an inviting and welcoming atmosphere for guests.
Pendant lights are typically made from durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements, ensuring they will last for years with minimal maintenance. Many pendant lights are also compatible with energy-efficient LED bulbs, reducing energy costs while providing beautiful and functional lighting for your outdoor space.
8. String Lighting
String lights are a popular and versatile outdoor wall light option. They usually add a festive and cozy ambiance to any outdoor space. Besides, they offer a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. Hang outdoor string light fixtures wherever the activity is—from the wall to illuminate patio furniture or on the home’s eaves to illuminate an outdoor kitchen.
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Choosing the right string light fixture for your outdoor space is crucial. Go for waterproof, rechargeable string lights (typically with a remote solar panel) or traditional battery-powered lights that can be recharged, ideally ones that use long-lasting LED bulbs. Such lighting eliminates the risk of tripping over extension cables, provides illumination to hard-to-reach areas of the yard, and keeps working even if spattered with rain.
9. Over-Garage Lighting
The overhead garage door opener light might not always be enough to illuminate your garage, especially if you use your garage outdoors for other purposes. One popular option for outdoor wall garage lighting is installing overhead LED lights.
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These LED lights offer brilliant, even illumination across a wide area. Consider LED lights designed exclusively for garage use since they are often brighter and more durable than traditional outdoor lighting.
Over-garage outdoor lighting can enhance safety and security if your home has an extended driveway or a detached garage. Go for motion-activated garage lights that can detect intruders and offer visibility when arriving home at night.
10. Artistic Lighting Fixtures
Artistic lighting features are a great way to add an artistic and unique touch to your home’s outdoors. Sculptural fixtures are works of art in and of themselves, with shapes and patterns that are interesting to look at even when turned off. On the other hand, art glass fixtures have glass pieces crafted or hand-blown to create unique designs and textures. These fixtures can add a subtle glow or a pop of color to your dull outdoor space.
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Additionally, artistic lighting fixtures like mosaic lights are made of small pieces of glass or other materials that are put together in patterns or designs. These wall lighting fixtures can give your outdoor space a beautiful and detailed look. Besides, nature-inspired fixtures can have shapes and patterns inspired by elements like leaves, flowers, or animals. These fixtures can give your outdoor space a whimsical and organic touch.
Things to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Wall Lighting
1. Intended Purpose
Choosing the right outdoor wall lights depends on their intended use. By understanding the intended purpose of the lighting, you can choose the right outdoor wall lighting that will offer the desired functionality, whether for safety and security, setting the mood, or highlighting a specific area.
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For instance, if you want to add security to your outdoor space, consider going for motion-activated lighting that illuminates when someone approaches. If you want to set a specific ambiance, go for dimmable wall lighting that you can adjust to suit your mood. Moreover, if you want to highlight a specific area, like a statue or a piece of art, go for directional lighting that you can adjust to illuminate where you need it.
2. Installation
Before investing in outdoor wall light fixtures, consider the installation. By considering installation, you can ensure the lighting is compatible with your home’s wiring and mounting options.
Consider the ease of installation of the wall lighting. Some lighting fixtures require an electrician, while others are simple enough for DIYers to set up. If you’re comfortable with DIY projects, carefully read the installation instructions and follow all safety measures.
3. Style and Design
When choosing outdoor wall lighting, consider the general style of your home and outdoor space. Outdoor wall lighting comes in various styles, from rustic, to industrial, modern, and traditional. We recommend looking for wall light fixtures that complement and add to the overall aesthetic of your existing decor. Remember that you should also consider the function of the lighting since different styles might be better suited for different purposes.
4. Bulb Type
Another factor to consider is the bulb type. The bulb type will depend on the amount of light needed and the function of the lighting. LED, halogen, or incandescent bulbs power outdoor wall lighting fixtures.
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LED bulbs are the most cost-effective option since they are long-lasting and energy-efficient. On the other hand, halogen bulbs produce a much whiter and brighter light, making them ideal for security lighting. Although incandescent bulbs are budget-friendly, their lifespan and energy efficiency may not make them the most cost-effective option in the long run.
Additionally, consider the color temperature and brightness of the bulb to ensure the ideal ambiance. Remember that the type of bulb you choose will affect the intensity and quality of the light, as well as its lifespan and energy efficiency.
5. Lighting Technique
As mentioned earlier, outdoor wall lighting should complement the design of your outdoor area and provide the ideal ambiance. Try a few lighting techniques to see which works best with your wall and outdoor area.
Up-lighting involves placing wall light fixtures at ground level and directing them upwards, usually toward a wall.
Down-lighting involves placing wall lights above the wall and directing them downward.
Grazing involves placing light fixtures near the wall and directing them at an angle to bring out the wall’s texture and detail.
Moonlighting involves placing light fixtures high above the wall and directing them downwards to create a soft, natural-looking light.
6. Maintenance
Consider the maintenance requirements when looking for the right outdoor wall lighting ideas. Will they require regular bulb replacements, cleaning, or professional maintenance? We recommend looking for wall lighting fixtures that are easy to maintain for your lifestyle. Avoid those that will require regular cleaning or repairs that require a professional, as you will incur additional costs.
7. Cost
The price of outdoor wall lighting varies depending on various elements, such as design, material, and functionality. Outdoor wall lights range in price from $20 to $100, with more expensive models costing up to $500 or more.
It is, therefore, crucial to determine a budget and research different wall light fixtures to find the ideal balance between functionality and price. More expensive fixtures may have better quality, more features, and longer lifespans. In contrast, less expensive ones may still fulfill the same basic function but have fewer features and a shorter lifespan. Consider the long-term benefits of investing in more expensive, higher-quality fixtures because of their durability and energy efficiency.
Conclusion
Outdoor wall lighting enhances property aesthetics and offers functional illumination. With numerous styles and designs available, homeowners can find the ideal lighting option to suit their preferences. Lantern-style fixtures create a classic, warm ambiance, while wall sconces add versatility and style, highlighting architecture and illuminating walkways. Floodlights deliver directed, powerful lighting, and recessed lighting offers a sleek, modern appearance. Lastly, LED strip lights give outdoor spaces a unique, colorful touch.
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If you want to add charm and functionality to your outdoor area, these outdoor wall lighting ideas are worth considering. By doing so, you create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that not only enhances the aesthetics of your property but also provides an added layer of security.
Frequently Asked Questions on Outdoor Wall Lighting Ideas
1. What is the Best Outdoor Wall Light Material?
Some materials, like plastic and aluminum, are less expensive than others. However, less expensive materials are more easily damaged and only last for a short time. Bronze or brass is ideal for lighting fixtures if you want something lasting. A bronze or brass outdoor light fixture will still look great in a decade.
2. What Lighting is Ideal for Outdoor Lighting?
Floodlights have the most expansive illumination area of any outdoor lighting. As a result, they are ideal for illuminating non-traditional entryways to buildings, such as alleys, driveways, or workshops. Guests and family members will appreciate having floodlights to help them navigate the driveway and the walkways.
3. How Do I Light Up the Outside of My Home?
There are two prime ways to light up landscape features in front of your home: uplighting and moonlighting.
Uplighting usually involves mounting wells or directional lights at ground level and facing upward. On the other hand, moonlighting imitates the effect of the moon spilling onto a property. It offers soft illumination over your property and reduces dark patches.
4. What Color is Best for Outdoor Lights?
Warm white is usually the most popular color temperature for landscape lighting and is comparable to halogen fixtures. Psychologically, it’s regarded as being more inviting and calming than higher color temperatures.
5. Where Should I Mount My Outdoor Wall Lights?
Outdoor wall lights should be mounted at least 5.5 to 6 feet above the ground to avoid direct light and simplify tasks like unlocking your door. An ideal rule of thumb is to choose light fixtures about a quarter to a third the height of your front door and mount them about six feet from the ground.
6. Should Outdoor Wall Lights Face Up or Down?
While downward-facing lights would be enough if you were only lighting a small space, upward-facing lights will be more effective at diffusing light further in very large rooms. This would, however, also depend on the main use of the room.
