Lighting is a simple addition that can elevate your space into an elegant outdoor oasis. And it doesn't have to be complicated! We've compiled a list of eye-catching outdoor lighting ideas that are easy to replicate in every outdoor space.

Which Outdoor Lighting Ideas Are You Looking For?

Jump to:
Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Doorways
Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Seating Areas
Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Dining Areas

Before you begin, take a look at our in-depth Outdoor Lighting Guide.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Doorways

Here are ideas on how best to illuminate your doorway.

Work In Threes

Doorways are the first thing people see when they visit your home, so make sure it is well lit. Take inspiration from this example, which utilizes three popular door lighting techniques, including lampposts, wall lanterns, and hanging lanterns. The uniform lantern design brings these three very different types of lights together into a coherent and welcoming space.

Bookend Your Door With Lamps

Elegantly frame your door with two identical lanterns for an optimal doorway lighting design. This provides an inviting glow so you can always come and go in a well-lit space. Choose from a variety of stylish lanterns, like traditional or farmhouse lanterns or modern lanterns like the ones pictured here.

Introduce Vintage Barn Lights

Channel a nostalgic farmhouse look with outdoor light ideas that involve barn lights. These small lights dimly light this doorway's vintage seating area with a cozy, warm glow. Talk about charming!

Welcome Yourself Home

A light to guide you home? This cozy cottage is illuminated by one elegant hanging lantern. The spacious lantern holds two bulbs to give off an even brighter glow during the evening. Outdoor hanging lights come in elaborate shapes and designs but tend to be encased by a glass cover to better circulate light.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Seating Areas

An important area to keep well lit is any outdoor seating section. Check out the following lighting inspiration for these lounging areas.

Try Out Novelty Lanterns

Make your seating area truly special with a variety of novelty lanterns that bring a stunning uniqueness to the space. The creative cases allow the light to shine through in fun shapes from floral patterns to nautical netting. Place these lanterns on end or side tables around your seating area to instantly elevate the space.

Mix It Up

Don't be afraid to pair different lights together in the same space – this outdoor seating arrangement uses a combination of lights to create an ambience that is just right. Pair stationary lighting like this barn wall light with more mobile options like hanging string lights or table lanterns. Add a few candle holder lanterns and battery-operated candles to shed more ambient light. The contrast of each unique type of lighting will only highlight how special the space is and make it more inviting.

Tip!

Get more inspiration in Patio Lighting Ideas: How to Choose Outdoor Lighting for Your Patio.

Light Up the Balcony

Lucky enough to have an outdoor balcony? Decorate this small space by wrapping string lights around the balcony railings for a romantic look. Use globe bulbs rather than fairy lights for maximum brightness. Add several outdoor lanterns for additional lighting as needed.

Tip!

Review How to Choose the Best Outdoor String Lights for Your Space to browse with confidence.

Embrace Canopy Camping

Simulate a camping setting with a large canopy over your patio. Hang a grand lantern from the center and place small candles in glass bubble vases for a nostalgic experience that will make you crave a campfire and s'mores.

Opt for a Fireside Glow

Say hello to summer nights with fiery backyard lighting ideas! Give off a soft, illuminating glow by the fireside with the help of landscape lights. Mimic the flames of your fire pit with solar-powered torches to line the lounging area.

Converse by Torch Light

Seeing double? This outdoor lighting idea helps to split your space in two. Define the lighting for your patio with an overhead ceiling fan to help regulate the temperature and keep the area well lit. Implant a few decorative torches to create a line between the patio and lawn area.

Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Dining Areas

Make sure you can see where you eat.

Dine Under a Starry Night

Simulate a starry night sky with the help of string lights. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, string lights can create a dreamy feel in your outdoor space. Hang them above a dining area in a crisscross pattern. Tie them to nearby trees or columns and use an extension cord in order to reach the nearest outlet.

Tip!

Check out How to Hang String Lights for the best results.

String Up Battery-Powered Bulbs

If you have an informal dining area like this wicker kitchen island, use a low-maintenance form of outdoor lighting to brighten up the space. Drape a string of battery-operated bulbs for easy on/off access and the freedom of not needing an outlet.

Install Hidden Sconces

This outdoor lighting look is a definite win. Classic lanterns get a contemporary twist with their cylindrical seeded glass and vintage bulbs hung from the wall rather than overhead. Greenery is used to cover the wall to give the sconces a hidden or floating feeling. Not sold yet? They're also dimmable.

Tip!

Need more inspiration? Check out our Outdoor Lighting Placement Ideas guide for more tips and tricks.