Great lighting is no accident. In fact, some careers are built around choosing the most flattering light to set a mood or highlight a feature. With that said, you don't need to be a professional to set up your own outdoor lighting — you just need to know a few basic principles and have a variety of lighting options in your repertoire.
First, it's helpful to have some top-level knowledge about lumens and temperature. Lumens refer to the amount of light given off by its source; the higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light. (For instance, a street light might have 12,000 lumens, while a candle has only 14.)
Then there's temperature, which refers to how warm or cool a bulb's light is. Without getting too technical, warm white has a lower temperature — typically around 2700k — and light goes from neutral to cool as that number goes higher. Why does this matter? Well, if you're hosting guests on your patio, you probably don't want them to feel like they're sitting under a flood light. Taking a moment to look at these details will help you create whatever feel you're going for.
Once you've got those details down, it's time to design your outdoor-lighting setup. There's no one-size-fits-all solution; someone who lives in a city apartment with a balcony has different lighting needs than a family living in the country.
Generally, though, it helps to think of your outdoor space as a room. What kind of mood do you want to set? What function does the outdoor space serve? These questions can steer you toward lighting options that make sense for your style, needs, and budget — and naturally, you'll find tons of those at Bed Bath & Beyond [1].
Ahead, we've highlighted a few different lighting types that can help you design your outdoor setup. Read on to see which kinds of lights you might need, along with product suggestions that will help you shine.
Quoizel Millhouse Small Wall-Mount Outdoor Lantern
Hardwired sconces make entryways more inviting, but you'll need to have some electrical know-how (or the number of an electrician) to swap out lights. (Plus, if you rent, you'll need to clear this with your landlord.) For traditional houses, a classic design like this Quoizel Millhouse Small Wall-Mount Outdoor Lantern [2] ($140) will look just right next to the front door. The silhouette and textured glass look charmingly vintage, but the light is anything but dim.
Studio 3B Small Square Solar LED Lantern
Of course, if you aren't into the boho look, there's always this Studio 3B Small Square Solar LED Lantern [3] ($15). Its clean lines complement a variety of styles (farmhouse, midcentury, transitional), and the all-weather construction means you can leave it outside come rain or shine.
Pure Garden LED Pathway Lights
Light the way to your front door or garden with these standalone Pure Garden LED Pathway Lights [4] ($27). The six lights turn on after the sun goes down to give off a gentle glow. Since they're solar-powered, you'll never have to worry about replacing batteries.
Simply Essential Cafe Solar 50-Count Outdoor LED String Lights
Every outdoor gathering feels more festive when solar string lights are involved. They're classic, romantic, and — once you've positioned them — maintenance free. These Simply Essential Cafe Solar 50-Count Outdoor LED String Lights [5] ($25) have 50 bulbs to brighten your evening with a warm, white temperature.
Nature Power Solar Step Lights
You know what doesn't sound like fun? Falling down a flight of dark stairs. Prevent nighttime stumbles with Nature Power Solar Step Lights [6] ($22). As the name suggests, they're powered by the sun and illuminate pathways and steps for ambiance and safety. This set of two is much better priced than a trip to the ER for a sprained ankle. Choose accordingly.
Nature Power 160-Degree Solar Motion Security LED 500 Light
Motion lighting is an integral part of a good home-security system, and you'll want a high-lumen light with a cooler temperature. You'll find that in this Nature Power 160-Degree Solar Motion Security LED 500 Light [7] ($53). It can detect motion up to 50 feet away, and you can calibrate the light's sensitivity and duration. Plus, you'll sleep a little more soundly at night.
Two's Company Cathage Piereced Covered Lantern
For a romantic feel, there's nothing like candlelight. This Two's Company Cathage Piereced Covered Lantern [8] ($96) is made of porcelain, with a pierced quatrefoil design that lets light flicker through. And while real candles can look beautiful, a battery-operated LED "flame" is also lovely — and doesn't go out when a breeze comes through.
Studio 3B Small Grape Leaf Solar LED Lantern
Smaller portable LED lanterns are great to have on hand for parties, since your guests can use them to navigate otherwise dark paths. (They're great for kids, too.) This Studio 3B Small Grape Leaf Solar LED Lantern [9] ($15) is compact and well priced, so you can buy a set.
Best Quality Lighting 7.5-Inch Die-Cast Low-Voltage Well Light
Just as people look their best in flattering light, your home and landscaping will really shine under a spotlight. Well lighting, such as this Best Quality Lighting 7.5-Inch Die-Cast Low-Voltage Well Light [10] ($70), draws attention to architectural features and prized gardenscapes. They work best at the base of a tree or fountain, and they're especially nice to have when flowering trees are in bloom.