Aesthetic Appeal: Things to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Lights

Lighting plays a pivotal role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall ambiance of a space when you’re designing an outdoor space. You could be designing a cosy backyard oasis or a stunning flower garden, either way, selecting the right outdoor lights is crucial. 

In this blog, we’ll explore key factors to consider when choosing outdoor lights, with insights from lighting consultants and a focus on designer outdoor lights and outdoor wall lighting.

Purpose and Functionality

Before diving into the world of outdoor lighting, it's essential to define the purpose and functionality of your lighting scheme. Are you aiming to illuminate a pathway, highlight architectural features, or create an inviting outdoor dining area? Determining the primary purpose of your outdoor lights will guide your decisions throughout the selection process.

Lighting Design Consultation

Seeking the expertise of a lighting consultant can be a game-changer in achieving your outdoor lighting goals. Lighting consultants are professionals who specialise in creating effective lighting designs that not only enhance aesthetics but also consider safety and functionality. They can provide valuable insights into the placement, type, and intensity of lights required for your outdoor space.

Urban Lighting offers lighting consultation services to help you make informed decisions. You can learn more about our services here.

Fixture Types and Styles

Outdoor lighting fixtures come in various styles and types, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal. Designer outdoor lights are particularly popular for their artistic and contemporary designs. They can serve as focal points and add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

Consider the architectural style of your home and outdoor surroundings when selecting fixtures. For instance, modern fixtures may complement a sleek and minimalist design, while traditional lantern-style fixtures can enhance the charm of a vintage or rustic setting.

Outdoor Wall Lighting

Outdoor wall lighting is a versatile option that can create both functional and aesthetic lighting effects. These fixtures are typically mounted on exterior walls, providing illumination while adding a decorative element to your outdoor area.

For decorative purposes, softer wall lighting, like downlights, can be the perfect way to bring warmth to your outdoor space. Whereas if your focus is on secure outdoor lighting, bulkhead lights, or sensor lights are probably a more appropriate solution.

At Urban Lighting, we offer a wide range of outdoor wall lighting options suitable for various design preferences. Explore our collection at Urban Lighting Outdoor Wall Lighting to find fixtures that align with your aesthetic vision.

Lighting Control

Consider how you want to control your outdoor lights. You can opt for traditional switches, timers, or even more advanced options like smart lighting systems that allow you to adjust brightness and color temperature remotely through a mobile app. The control method you choose should align with your lifestyle and convenience preferences.

Energy Efficiency

Over the last ten years there’s been a significant increase in the desire for sustainability, energy-efficient lighting. This is not just a trend but a responsible choice. Urban Lighting has a range of portable lighting available, which are an excellent option for outdoor lighting, due to their flexible and multifunctional nature.

Light Direction and Placement

The direction and placement of outdoor lights are crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic. Consider whether you want to create dramatic uplighting to accentuate trees or architectural features, or if you prefer downlighting for a soft and inviting atmosphere.

Pathway lighting should be carefully spaced to ensure safe navigation while contributing to the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space. Experiment with different angles and heights to find the most appealing lighting effects.

Colour Temperature

The colour temperature of outdoor lights can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of your space. Warmer color temperatures (around 2700K) create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cooler temperatures (around 5000K) offer a more vibrant and modern feel. Combining different colour temperatures strategically can add depth and dimension to your outdoor lighting design.

Maintenance and Durability

Australia’s harsh climate can wreak havoc on low quality outdoor lights. It's essential to choose fixtures that are durable and easy to maintain, manufactured from weather-resistant materials, such as stainless steel or aluminum. Additionally, consider fixtures with easy access for bulb replacement and cleaning.

10. Light Pollution Considerations

While creating an aesthetically pleasing outdoor lighting scheme, it's crucial to be mindful of light pollution. Excessive or poorly directed outdoor lighting can contribute to light pollution, which has environmental and health implications. Use shielded fixtures and ensure that your lights are directed where they are needed without causing unnecessary glare or light spill.

Making the right choice

At Urban Lighting, we know firsthand how challenging it is choosing the right outdoor lighting - especially if you have a particular design aesthetic or desire a certain functionality. We suggest booking an appointment with our lighting consultant who can help ensure that your outdoor lighting choices align with your vision.

Lighting on a budget

If you have a limited budget, when looking at options for your outdoor space try to choose energy-efficient options, like solar and LED lighting. And think about motion-sensing lights that only come on when the sensors detect movement, which can save you even more money.

Choose Urban Lighting for your outdoor lighting

Come and meet the Urban Lighting team, where our incredible range of lighting is on display, at our Willoughby and Annandale showrooms to learn more about exterior lighting.

With a bit of help and knowledge from the Urban Lighting team, you’re on your way to making your home a well-lit oasis of peace and productivity. 

For more inspiration and to explore a wide range of outdoor lighting options, visit Urban Lighting and embark on your journey to transform your outdoor space into a captivating oasis.