9 ways to add outdoor lighting

[Akanksha]

Make your home and garden shine by using outdoor lighting to improve visibility, add ambience and highlight plants and other features.

The Bunnings Workshop community has shared many inspiring projects featuring dramatic outdoor lighting. You can get ideas for your own home below.

Please note you may need to engage a licensed electrician for your outdoor lighting project. Always follow safety and installation instructions.

1. String lights

Hang string lights across your patio to create a warm and festive atmosphere. Tom’s (@tom_builds) backyard covered patio with low-level deck features white LED party lights.

Experienced renovator @Adam_W has shared how to install outdoor string lighting.

2. Deck and step lighting

Install deck lights on railings or under the steps to improve visibility. Built over alfresco tiles, Asif’s (@asifkhawaja) low-level deck features step lighting.

Here are more expert ideas for your outdoor entertaining area.

3. Fire pit

A fire pit is a great way to light up your backyard and provide a focal point you can enjoy all-year round. Steven (@sannear) built this fire pit area with bench seating using Besser blocks, pavers and timber.

Check out our Top 10 most popular fire pit projects for more inspiration.

4. Smart lighting

Smart outdoor lights let you control your lighting using your phone and can be also programmed to turn on automatically. Ettienne (@ettman8) installed smart lights in his garden and concealed the low-voltage cabling. 

The Bunnings guide How to choose smart garden lighting contains more information.

5. Wall lights

Wall-mounted lights or sconces on exterior walls and pillars can add style while helping to illuminate your home. Workshop member @DKG installed wall lights when refreshing his outdoor brick pillars.

6. Path lights

Installing path lights can make driveways, paths and entrances safer and more inviting. Place them along edges to welcome and guide visitors safely into your home. 

Find more useful tips in the Bunnings guide How to choose garden lights.

7. Spotlights

Use spotlights to highlight specific features in your garden, including trees, statues and water features. 

Rahat’s (@rahatsaini) clever water feature is illuminated by LED lights for a colourful night-time display.

8. Floodlights

Installing motion-activated floodlights around your property can enhance security. Rufaro (@diy_hausdesigns) installed solar-powered sensor LED floodlights to his outdoor feature wall.

The Bunnings team shares more advice in How to light an outdoor entertaining area.

9. Lanterns and torches

Place lanterns or torches on outdoor tables, along paths or on walls as a temporary light source. Carl (@CSParnell) used solar Tiki torches along his fence.

For more advice on choosing lights for your home, check out the Bunnings guide Bring your garden to life with lights. 

More help and inspiration for updating your outdoor areas

Check out our Top 10 most popular garden makeovers and Top 10 most popular outdoor entertaining projects shared by Bunnings Workshop members for more inspiration for your home. 

Don't hesitate to ask a question if you need more help in lighting your home and garden. We're here to help.