Garden party season is going to be bigger than ever this year. And nobody wants the long-awaited celebrations to end when the sun goes down. To keep the fun lasting long into the evening, you need the perfect outdoor lighting solutions.
Whether you are looking to create a subtle, atmospheric glow or add task lighting for everywhere from a barbecue area to the front door and porch, we have selected the brands that can help. Plus, we answer all the important questions to help you make the right choice…
What should I consider when choosing outdoor lights?
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Think about the direction, volume and intensity of light. ‘It’s important to consider both the function and the aesthetic of your lighting,’ says James Bassant, design director at Astro Lighting.
‘A light by the front door is there for illumination – so that you can find your keys easily, and for security reasons– but it is also a great opportunity to create visual drama at night.
Think of your garden as another room and apply as much creativity as you would to any other space in your home by getting the balance right between darkness and layers of light.’
What effects can different garden lights create?
Set the scene with a decorative wall light that suits the style of your home, or select a more architectural look with a wall-mounted uplight or downlight. ‘If choosing a decorative lantern with a visible light source, ensure it has a filament bulb that can be dimmed. Otherwise, it will become a glaring eyesore,’ says Sally Storey, creative director of John Cullen Lighting. ‘If there is no room for wall lights, use up lights on either side of the door to frame your entrance.’
Which lights are best for illuminating steps, a wall or a path?
‘A wash of light on to the façade creates a softer look,’ continues Storey. ‘Choose low-level floor washer lights recessed into the walls or steps to create a gentle glow across a path. Alternatively, for a more dramatic look, use uplights tucked into the corner of a step to skim light across it.’
What do I need to think about before installation?
Check products have the correct IP44 rating for use outdoors and hire a qualified electrician to install them. ‘Electrical fittings will quickly fail outdoors unless they are properly channelled and insulated,’ says Peter Legg, lead designer at Där Lighting.
‘You will need to run cables to the location where you want to position your lights. It’s good to determine this first, as getting power to your perfect spot will form part of your project costs.’
7 of the best outdoor lights
We introduce the garden lighting brands to know and our top pick from each expert
Best for reproduction design classics
Oluce
This brand has been providing lighting for generations of Italians. As the oldest Italian design company in the illumination sector still in operation today (it was founded in 1945), it prides itself on reimagining iconic heritage pieces. oluce.co.uk
Best for the architectural look
Corsten
This engineer-backed lighting brand promises to make outdoor lamps built to last. Everything is finished by hand, with an emphasis on timeless elements and materials like solid brass and nickel. corston.com
Best for big name designers
Lodes
Lodes burst into the outdoor lighting scene earlier this year with a string of products created by prominent international designers including Oslo based architecture studio Snøhetta. lodes.com
Best for sustainable lights
Fermob
Though Fermob has been doing outdoor furniture for years, this is its first solar floor lamp. It features a solar panel with a diameter of 1200 centimetres, making it one of the largest solar panels ever integrated into an outdoor floor lamp. fermob.com
Best for contemporary designs
Occhio
This German manufacturer made a name for itself in the lighting industry by placing flexibility at the heart of its designs, and its new outdoor collection is no exception. occhio.com
Best for wall-mounted outdoor lights
Original BTC
If you’re after something timeless and weather-resistant for a porch or above an outdoor dining table, this supplier is your answer. originalbtc.com
Best for design classics
Louis Poulsen
This beloved Danish brand has over 150 years worth of experience illuminating homes and businesses and stocks many exterior versions and portable versions of popular interior lights. louispoulsen.com
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