Useful outdoor lighting makes an entrance, path or outdoor living area easier to use after dark. Start with those tasks, then choose fittings, controls and positions that suit the site.
In this guide
Walk the route after dark
List the places where you need to see: steps, changes of level, the front-door lock, gates and the route from the car. View them from normal walking positions. A bright fitting high on a wall may still leave a step in shadow or shine into someone’s eyes.
Use our lighting design guide to plan outdoor work alongside indoor colour and control choices. Our lighting installation team can assess the fitting positions and cable routes.
Choose ideas by area
| Area | Lighting idea | Check before choosing |
|---|---|---|
| Front door | Directed light near the lock and threshold. | Faces and the keyhole are visible without glare. |
| Path or steps | Low, shielded light aimed at the route. | Changes of level are clear from both directions. |
| Deck or seating | Separate dining and circulation light. | Seated people are not looking into exposed lamps. |
| Driveway | Controlled light at arrival points. | Light stays on the property and avoids neighbours’ windows. |
Control glare and spill
More light is not always more useful. Shielding, aiming and the mounting position influence how comfortable a space feels. Consider what the light looks like from the street, neighbouring rooms and your own windows.
Warm and cool light also look different against timber, planting and paving. Compare the intended appearance with our lighting colour guide before mixing new fittings with existing ones.
Choose how the lights operate
A sensor can suit an arrival route; a deliberate switch can be better for a long evening on the deck. Discuss timers, daylight controls and manual override so the system is convenient for visitors and the household. Plan access for adjustments and future maintenance.
If connected controls appeal, our smart lighting comparison helps you consider manual operation as well as app features. Check the particular product’s suitability for its outdoor location.
Prepare the installation brief
- Mark entrances, steps, seating and parking on a simple sketch.
- Show existing fittings, switches and proposed cable routes.
- Note weather exposure and any coastal conditions.
- Identify places where glare or spill would cause a problem.
- Describe the hours, sensors and manual controls you want.
Outdoor fitting selection needs to suit the actual exposure and installation position. Leave fixed wiring, connections and protection choices to the electrician; do not adapt indoor equipment for an exposed location.
Questions about Outdoor lighting
Do all outdoor lights need motion sensors?
No. Sensors suit some arrival and access areas, while seating and dining spaces may work better with deliberate control. Choose the operation for each task.
Can I choose outdoor fittings before the cable route is agreed?
Share your preferred fittings early, but confirm the location, exposure and route with the installer before purchasing.
Bring us a sketch of your paths, entrances and outdoor living area. We can turn the priority spots into an outdoor lighting plan with useful controls and suitable fittings.