Journal

Illumination Inspiration: Curating Outdoor Lighting

More than any other design element, lighting truly sets the mood.

 

Well-curated lighting enhances the aesthetics and functionality of both indoor and outdoor spaces. Our space to live grows as we extend our living areas into our porches, yards, and patios. Carefully selected fixtures will also ensure that these spaces can be enjoyed every season. 

Weatherproof Outdoor Lighting

The best outdoor lighting is designed to withstand a range of elemental forces throughout the year.  When designing for the outdoors and damp locations, manufacturers will consider the range of conditions that can effect the performance of the fixture, designing and specifying accordingly. All outdoor lighting is designed on an IP rating scale which indicates the level of protection a particular fixture will have against moisture as well as solid projectiles (such as hail and sleet). This scale is especially important when considering hardwired lighting.  The AJ 50 LED Outdoor Wall Lamp, for example, has an IP rating of 65 and is protected against jets of water as well as dust. IP ratings will range from 00 (no protection from solids or liquids) to 68 (dust-tight and protected from the effects of permanent water submersion up to 3 feet). 

Outdoor Ambiance

Ambient and accent lighting is the perfect way to light up a pathway, seating area, or table. Floor lamps like the IC Outdoor Floor Lamp can be used in central areas, to create an intimate setting for gathering without illuminating the entire outdoor space.  

Fermob's Mini Balad Lamps are perfect for taking wherever temporary or portable light is needed, transforming the layout of your yard to accommodate games, movie nights, and campouts. Table lights like the Fora Outdoor Table Lamp are perfection for patio and porch side tables where they create a comfortable ambiance. 

Utilitarian Lighting

Hardwired lights are a permanent solution for lighting walkways, doorways, and offsets between buildings. For smaller areas, a well-placed wall sconce may offer adequate light for an entire space. The Box Wall Light from Davey Lighting comes in multiple sizes and is surrounded by glass on three sides to shed light in every direction. Davey Lighting offers a wide range of classical and nautical-themed outdoor fixtures that add whimsey to a space while maintaining a level of durability typically reserved for harsh conditions found on shipping vessels. 

Artful Options

Beyond the hardworking characteristics which are intrinsic in outdoor lighting, many also infuse style and character into an outdoor space, like the Maxi S Outdoor Pendant Lamps by Bover, or the whimsical Stone Outdoor Lamp by Oluce. Unique accent fixtures add layers of light to spaces and create a sense of imaginative and artistic ambiance.

Check out more of our favorites to achieve outdoor illumination bliss:

Swell String 3 Pendant Lights by Pablo

These gorgeous, modern pendant lights are perfect for indoor and outdoor lighting. Whether they’re hanging above a kitchen island or a patio table, Swell offers a lot light and character with through varying shapes, hand-crafted shades, and metallic patinas. 

Santorini Outdoor Garland Pendant by Marset

Designed in homage to vintage fishing lanterns, these lights are bright enough to light a small outdoor patio. Perfect for nights spent outside with friends, line the balcony railing or string them overhead for a dramatic and atmospheric light. Santorini Garland Pendants are customizable as well. 

Garota P/02 Outdoor Floor Lamp by Bover

This lamp’s shape was inspired by sea urchins and is a beautiful centerpiece for an outdoor seating area or patio. The Garota Outdoor Floor Lamp offers a warm, clear light while its woven Polyethylene, elliptical shape protects the bulb from the elements.