Ideas for outdoor lighting can now be considered a year-round concept. No longer relegated to the holidays and special occasions, homeowners are choosing to decorate — or celebrate — all year long.
Outdoor lighting has become a year-round phenomenon for several reasons, reflecting societal, technological, and cultural shifts. One key reason is the advancement in lighting technology, particularly the widespread adoption of energy-efficient LED bulbs.
LED lights are not only cost-effective but also durable, making them suitable for continuous outdoor use. Their versatility allows for a variety of lighting options, from functional to decorative, enhancing the appeal of outdoor spaces.
Safety concerns also play a crucial role in the year-round prevalence of outdoor lighting. Well-lit outdoor areas contribute to improved visibility and security, deterring potential intruders and reducing the risk of accidents. As safety awareness has increased, so has the demand for outdoor lighting solutions that promote a sense of security, encouraging homeowners and businesses alike to keep their outdoor spaces well-lit throughout the year.
The growing popularity of outdoor living spaces is another factor. People now view their outdoor areas as extensions of their homes, creating outdoor kitchens, lounges, and entertainment zones. This shift in mindset has led to a desire for outdoor lighting that complements these spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere for socializing or relaxation.
Seasonal decorations and festivities also lend a hand to the year-round use of outdoor lighting. Beyond traditional holiday lights, people now embrace decorative lighting for various occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.
This cultural shift towards celebrating life’s moments with light has fueled the demand for outdoor lighting year-round. And we’re here to help with tips for outdoor lighting that shines bright in any season.
What Type of Lighting is Best for Outdoors?
Choosing the best lighting for the exterior of your home or property comes down to need. It is crucial to achieving functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Various lighting options cater to different needs, and the best choice depends on factors such as the specific outdoor area, intended use, and personal preferences.
Here are several types of outdoor lighting widely considered effective and versatile.
LED Lighting
As we mentioned above, LED (light-emitting diode) lights are a popular choice for outdoor spaces. They are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in a variety of color temperatures, allowing you to achieve different atmospheres. LED technology has advanced significantly, providing bright and focused illumination without consuming excessive energy.
Select the right shape, size, and kit length for your home and customize the look and feel of your LED lighting. Sync them to your security system or to daytime/nighttime settings, or just let them shine all year long.
Floodlights
Floodlights are powerful, broad-beamed lights that are ideal for illuminating large outdoor areas. They are commonly used for security purposes, providing bright and even lighting to deter intruders. LED floodlights are particularly efficient and come in motion sensor varieties for added security.
Floodlights are our winner for best illumination. They will give you the brightest impact for safe outdoor lighting, and if safety is an allover concern, these come highly recommended.
Path Lights
Path lights are designed to illuminate pathways, walkways, and driveways. They enhance safety by preventing trips and falls and add a decorative element to the landscape. Typically, these fixtures are low to the ground and emit a soft, diffused light.
Choose from whimsical shapes or holiday themes. We like path lights that morph between colors for a playful welcome to your home.
Wall-Mounted Lights
Wall-mounted lights are fixtures attached to exterior walls, providing both ambient and accent lighting. They are versatile and can be used to illuminate entryways, patios, or outdoor seating areas. Many designs are available, ranging from traditional lantern-style fixtures to modern, sleek options.
Sconces can be hardwired and integrated with dimming features to create the perfect atmosphere for the exterior of your home. Illuminate stairwells, steps, or other areas with tricky maneuvering required.
String Lights
String lights have gained immense popularity for creating a festive and cozy atmosphere in outdoor spaces. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, making them versatile for different occasions. String lights are often used to adorn patios, pergolas, and outdoor seating areas.
Fairy lights and shower lights are some beautiful, newer options. We also love the look of string lights hung across greenery to light up your property’s trees.
Deck and Step Lights
For decks, stairs, and outdoor platforms, deck and step lights are practical choices. These fixtures are often recessed into the surface, providing subtle yet effective lighting. They enhance safety by illuminating potential tripping hazards and add a stylish touch to outdoor stairs and deck edges.
We highly recommend choosing lighting that can lie flush with the surface of your stairs or deck. A combination of ambient and focused lighting can also achieve a soft but safe atmosphere outdoors.
Landscape Lighting
Landscape lighting is designed to highlight specific features in outdoor spaces, such as trees, shrubs, or architectural elements. Well-placed landscape lights can enhance the overall aesthetics of the outdoor environment and create visual interest. Common types include uplights, spotlights, and well lights.
Waterproof lighting is important if you’re lighting up greenery near sprinklers. Solar lights can also be helpful, and save on energy costs.
Solar Lights
Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that harnesses energy from the sun. These lights are easy to install since they don’t require wiring, making them suitable for various outdoor settings. Solar path lights, garden lights, and decorative lanterns are popular choices for environmentally conscious homeowners.
It is generally considered more cost-effective to install solar lights — even the upfront costs may be reduced. They are also generally cheaper to maintain and care for over the lifetime of the lights.
Smart Lighting Systems
With the advent of smart home technology, outdoor lighting can now be integrated into smart systems. Smart outdoor lights can be controlled remotely through mobile apps, and some are compatible with voice-activated assistants. This technology adds convenience and flexibility to outdoor lighting control.
When choosing outdoor lighting, it’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the space, the intended use, and the overall design aesthetic. Combining different types of lighting can create a layered and visually appealing outdoor environment while addressing practical needs such as safety and security.
Monumental Window and Door Products for Outdoor Lighting Illumination
Monumental’s aluminum-framed windows and doors are all available in custom sizing, making our products perfect for showcasing outdoor lighting setups. Bring the indoors out, and vice versa, with our stylish options.
4550 series Vari-Slide™ Automatic Sliding Glass Door System
The 4550 series Vari-Slide™ automatic sliding glass door system from Monumental can be placed into numerous configurations to highlight exterior scenery and lighting.
4580 Glass Window Wall
Our 4580 Window Wall offers beautiful durability and eco-friendly construction. Select from custom colors and finishes to match exterior lighting and design choices. And then, of course, there are the many benefits of sunlight through windows to capture!
5000 Series Sublinear Sliding Glass Door Systems
Finally, we highly recommend our Sublinear Sliding Glass Door Systems. Patented with a European look and feel alongside quality California craftsmanship, our unique slim-line sliding glass door system is a fantastic choice for pairing with brand-new exterior lighting.
As you can see, there is no need to overcomplicate your ideas for outdoor lighting. Even a simple online purchase of string or LED lights can elevate and brighten your spaces outdoors. And who knows? It could inspire you for a Monumental makeover!