Outdoor living areas add character and practicality to a home, but choosing the right outdoor lights is key to creating a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere that you’ll want to visit time and again.
Homeowners have countless options for such lighting, ranging from solar and hardscape lighting to ambient, task, or bollard lighting. Many designers even choose to synthesize multiple approaches into a unique and cohesive atmosphere.
You may see outdoor sconces paired with fairy lights or pathway lanterns complemented by patio pendants and candlelight, depending on the natural landscape and the mood the homeowners want to create.
Bollard fixtures are one of the most versatile and practical tools for outdoor lighting. They can be placed permanently and require minimal maintenance, consisting of regular cleaning and occasional bulb replacement.
These fixtures often outline pathways or are set alongside walls, beams, and structures, illuminating recreational areas and defining the separation between construction and nature.
Bollards can be svelte and discreet, or they can be more substantial, asserting their presence within a cohesively and cleverly designed outdoor living area. These lights typically range in height between one and three feet tall.
Bollards are best for spaces that only require direct ground lighting, allowing ambient light to filter upwards while avoiding glare and distracting light at eye level.
For a patio or pergola with seating (think dinner parties and evening drinks), outdoor sconces may be the more appropriate choice. Sconces are typically situated higher on a wall to illuminate tables. Many have striking, classic designs and complement stone, brick, and wood siding. Outdoor wall lighting can also illuminate walkways, enhancing safety and security.