Outdoor Lighting Trend Alert

“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.”

James Kendall, Operations Director at KES Lighting & Home

What is your favourite outdoor lighting trend this year, and why?

One of my favourite outdoor lighting trends is the move towards layered, low glare garden lighting that feels soft, atmospheric and intentional rather than overly bright. Homeowners are moving away from harsh floodlighting and instead using a combination of pathway lights, subtle uplighting and discreet wall fittings to create warmth and depth outdoors. This approach feels far more sophisticated and allows gardens to become genuine extensions of the home, especially as outdoor living continues to grow in popularity.

What I particularly like about this trend is that it balances beauty with practicality. You still get safe, usable outdoor spaces, but without losing the relaxed ambience people want when entertaining or unwinding in the evening.

How do you recommend styling this trend?

The key is to think in layers, much like you would indoors. Start with practical lighting for paths, steps and entrances, then introduce softer accent lighting to highlight planting, trees or architectural features. Rather than trying to light every corner of the garden, focus on creating pockets of light and shadow, which adds atmosphere and makes the space feel more luxurious.

I would always recommend choosing warm white LEDs, as these create a much more inviting glow than cooler tones. Keep fixtures discreet and consistent in finish, whether that is matte black, bronze or natural metal, so the scheme feels cohesive. If you have a seating area or pergola, adding decorative wall lights or pendants can help create an outdoor room effect, which is a major ​trend for gardens in 2026.