18 Ideas for Outdoor Lighting
Light the way [1]
Canning jars with tea lights create a sparkling entrance to any outdoor gathering. Wrap the tops of lidless jars with hose clamps and suspend from a tree branch or a shepherd's-crook stake.
Salvaged statement [4]
A large piece of architectural salvage still works hard as a light when strung with twinkle lights. The contrast between big and bitty makes for a charming look.
Raised lighting [7]
Floating candles offer illumination for an evening garden party. A raised, galvanized tub overflows with delicate flowers; inside, a smaller tub holds the floating candles.
Enchanting illumination [10]
Tiny tea lights add mystery and romance to any outdoor event. Line the tea lights in a moss-covered tray for elegance. Silver accessories glimmer in the candlelight.
Video: How to make a garden chandelier [13]
Create a unique garden chandelier using a shallow tray, canning jars, votive candles, moss, a flowerpot, rope, chain and birdseed.
Tiny delights [16]
Lighting creates mood, so make sure the kind you choose matches yours. Candles floating among flowers is pure romance.
Roomscape [19]
An outdoor living room takes on the look of indoor spaces when you use furniture and accessories that echo interior styling.
Warm scene [22]
Hurricane-style lanterns warm the look in this fall setting. They come in many styles, making it simple to find one to fit your look.
Cheery touch [25]
Oversize candle holders hung between striped curtains make for a bright and cheery look on a porch.
Pathway beacons [28]
Path lights direct beams where guests need it. The tulip glass on this fits right in amid a flowerbed.
Bubbly mood [31]
Path lights can even seem to bubble with enthusiasm.
Amber tones [34]
Tea lights flicker in votives placed in holes left by long-gone lights in this chandelier.
Floral fantasy [37]
Candles and flowers add romance to any garden event. (Use battery-powered candles if wind is a bother or fire is a concern.) Hang a chandelier like this up in a tree or from hardscaping.
Bold looks [40]
The teardrop-shape white light sitting on the deck injects a mod look in this bold setting.
Hanging around [43]
Paper lanterns come in a range of colors, sizes and shapes—some are even solar powered. Choose ones that match your outdoor furniture. Hung on plant hangers in the garden bed, these will create a cocoon of light around the seating area.
Twisty twines [46]
Wind strings of lights of various sizes and shapes around plant supports, a trellis, a pergola or the like for a whimsical touch.
Pretty pendants [49]
Streamlined looks still work hard. Focus light where you need it by hanging pendants.
Twice as good [52]
Ceiling fans hung on porches stir air on summer days and pool light over seating or eating areas on summer nights.