Layer your light
Use soft ambient light overhead, task light where you cook or read and accent light on posts and plants.
Layers prevent glare and dark corners.
String lights
Commercial-grade strings hang on rafters and glow warmly. Mount them to solid supports and use weatherproof fixtures.
Warm white is flattering.
Downlights and rope lights
Recessed lights and LED ropes hide in beams and make a clean look. Plan wiring before the beams go up.
Dimmers help set the mood.
Path and step lights
Low lights along paths and steps make the area safe. Aim them down to avoid glare.
Solar lights work for accents.
Controls
Dimmers, timers and smart controls make lighting easy. Put switches where you can reach them from the seating.
Check the circuit capacity.
Keep it safe
Outdoor lighting needs weatherproof boxes and GFCI protection. Use qualified electricians.
Check local code.
Plan wiring early, use warm layered light and keep switches and dimmers close at hand.
