Expert Advice for Creating a Stylish and Inviting Outdoor Space

James Kendall, Operations Director at KES Lighting & Home, shares his expert guidance on the outdoor lighting trends shaping gardens this year and explains how to use lighting effectively to enjoy evenings outside.

“Garden lighting is often treated as an afterthought, but it has the potential to completely change how a space is used. The right lighting allows homeowners to continue enjoying their garden long after sunset, whether that means entertaining friends, relaxing outdoors or simply appreciating the view from inside the house.”

Layered Lighting to Create Depth

Relying on a single light source can make a garden feel flat and uninviting, whereas combining wall lights, path lighting, feature illumination and soft ambient lighting creates depth, interest, and added functionality. Lighting works best in three layers: functional lights for pathways and steps, feature lights to highlight planting or architectural elements and softer ambient lighting around seating areas to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Rather than flooding a garden with light, the most effective approach is to focus on specific focal points. This could include uplighting trees, illuminating textured walls or subtly highlighting water features, which will all help to add drama and structure. This not only enhances the garden itself, but also adds interest to the view from inside the home.

Small Garden Lighting Ideas That Make a Big Impact

Strategic lighting placement is key to make a small outdoor space feel far larger and more inviting. In smaller gardens, lighting is great for creating the illusion of depth, so rather than placing lights only near the house, try highlighting the far boundary or a tree at the back of the garden which will help to draw the eye outward, making the space feel larger after dark.

Wall lights and subtle ground lighting can also help by creating a clean and uncluttered look, while low level lights provide practical illumination, making the space both functional and welcoming, whatever its size.

How to Light a Pergola or Covered Seating Area

Pergolas and covered seating areas are becoming increasingly popular in modern gardens and lighting is essential for making these spaces usable in the evening. To create a cosy atmosphere that feels like an outdoor living room, consider softer, decorative lighting, such as pendant lights, warm wall lights or subtle string lighting. Layered lighting is important to allow the space to shift easily from relaxed evenings to entertaining guests, and adding dimmable lights or multiple sources will give you flexibility depending on how the area is being used. This ensures the space is both beautiful and practical at any time of day.

Making Gardens Safe and Adaptable After Dark

Safety is an important consideration and low level lights along pathways or integrated into steps are ideal for providing visibility after dark. For flexibility, it’s also worth considering Smart outdoor lighting, which can be easily controlled from a smartphone. This allows the homeowner to adjust the brightness and even adjust the lighting in different lighting zones. Furthermore, timers and automation can ensure lights switch on at dusk and turn off later in the evening, making it simple for homeowners to create a relaxed atmosphere while still maintaining practical lighting where it is needed.