## How to Design Exterior Home Lighting
Exterior home lighting can dramatically improve the curb appeal of your property, enhance safety, and create a welcoming atmosphere. By carefully considering the following factors, you can design an exterior lighting scheme that meets your specific needs and complements the architectural style of your home.
### Planning Your Exterior Lighting
**1. Determine Your Goals:**
* **Security:** Highlight entryways, walkways, and other areas where security is a concern.
* **Aesthetics:** Create a visually appealing ambiance that enhances the beauty of your home.
* **Functionality:** Provide adequate illumination for outdoor activities, such as entertaining, cooking, and gardening.
**2. Consider Your Home’s Architecture:**
* **Traditional Homes:** Classic lanterns, wall sconces, and post lights complement traditional architectural styles.
* **Modern Homes:** Sleek, geometric fixtures with clean lines and minimal ornamentation suit modern exteriors.
* **Rustic Homes:** Aged brass or oil-rubbed bronze fixtures with a vintage appeal enhance rustic aesthetics.
### Choosing Lighting Fixtures
**1. Types of Fixtures:**
* **Lanterns:** Versatile fixtures suitable for entryways, porches, and patios.
* **Wall Sconces:** Mount on exterior walls to provide downward illumination and create ambiance.
* **Post Lights:** Tall, slender fixtures that illuminate walkways and driveways.
* **Path Lights:** Low-profile fixtures spaced along walkways to guide movement.
* **Floodlights:** Provide wide-angle illumination for larger areas.
**2. Materials and Finishes:**
* **Copper:** Develops a beautiful patina over time and adds warmth to traditional homes.
* **Brass:** A durable material with a polished or antique finish that complements a variety of styles.
* **Aluminum:** Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for modern and coastal homes.
* **Polycarbonate:** Transparent material that mimics the look of glass but is shatter-resistant.
### Placement and Installation
**1. Entryways:**
* Install a pair of lanterns or wall sconces on either side of the front door.
* Use floodlights to illuminate the path leading to the entrance.
**2. Walkways:**
* Line walkways with path lights spaced 3-5 feet apart.
* For wider walkways, consider bollard lights or post lights.
**3. Driveways:**
* Illuminate the driveway with post lights or floodlights.
* Place fixtures at the start, middle, and end of the driveway.
**4. Patios and Decks:**
* Use lanterns or string lights to create a cozy ambiance on patios and decks.
* Install recessed lights in ceilings or under eaves for general illumination.
### Types of Lighting
**1. LED Lighting:**
* Energy-efficient and long-lasting (up to 50,000 hours).
* Available in various color temperatures (warm, cool, daylight).
* Dimmable to create different moods.
**2. Halogen Lighting:**
* Brighter than incandescent bulbs.
* Emits a crisp, white light.
* Shorter lifespan than LEDs.
**3. Incandescent Lighting:**
* Traditional bulbs that produce a warm, incandescent glow.
* Least energy-efficient option.
### Controls and Wiring
**1. Motion Sensors:**
* Activate lights automatically when movement is detected.
* Enhance security and convenience.
**2. Timers:**
* Set lights to turn on and off at specific times.
* Conserve energy by limiting lighting use.
**3. Dimmers:**
* Control the intensity of light output.
* Create different atmospheres for different occasions.
### Safety Considerations
* Choose fixtures that are rated for outdoor use and meet electrical code requirements.
* Place lights away from flammable materials, such as shrubs and trees.
* Use sturdy fixtures that can withstand wind and moisture.
### Additional Tips
* **Layering:** Use different types of fixtures to create layers of light.
* **Uplighting:** Illuminate trees and architectural features from below for a dramatic effect.
* **Directional Lighting:** Use spotlights to highlight specific areas or objects.
* **Dimmable Lighting:** Allows you to adjust the brightness to suit your needs and avoid light trespass.
* **Professional Installation:** If you’re not comfortable with electrical work, consider hiring a qualified electrician.