Outdoor lighting needs to look good in daylight and perform safely at night. The best plan considers fixture scale, weather rating, glare control, and how people move through the space.
Choose the correct rating
Use wet-rated fixtures in fully exposed areas and damp-rated fixtures only where they are protected from direct rain. This protects both safety and product life.
Scale lights to the door or wall
Entry sconces often look best when they are roughly one quarter to one third the height of the door. For double fixtures, keep spacing symmetrical and mount them at a comfortable eye level.
Reduce glare
Outdoor lights should guide movement without shining directly into eyes or neighboring windows. Frosted glass, shielded bulbs, and lower wattage can help.
A well planned exterior lighting scheme makes the home easier to use, more welcoming, and more polished from the curb.
