Long days, bright nights
Creating a functional yet inviting outdoor spaces is high on everyone's priority list this summer, creating a space where you can relax with friends and family and enjoy your backyard long into the summer nights.
From how bright your spaces should be lit, to what lighting warmth you should use, we’ve got the go-to guide for lighting your outdoor spaces this January.
Lumens - How bright should your outdoor lighting be?
Finding the right balance between practicality and ambiance can be tricky. You want your space to be functional, with well-lit pathways and dining areas, while still maintaining a cosy atmosphere without harsh lighting.
This is where lumens come in. “Lumens” refer to “the total amount of light a lighting source emits in all directions” - to put simply, it’s how we measure the brightness and intensity of a light. The number of lumens required for each space can vary, depending on the overall look and ambiance you're aiming for.
Area |
Lumens |
Paths |
100-200 |
Steps |
12-100 |
Landscapes |
50-300 |
Ponds and pools |
200-400 |
Outdoor walls |
50-185 |
Flood lights |
700-1300 |
Motion sensor lights |
300-700 |
Kelvins - How warm should your outdoor lighting be?
From warmly lit architectural features to garden beds with a cool glow, different areas of your outdoor space benefit from varying lighting temperatures to highlight unique features.
Lighting temperature, or warmth, is measured in Kelvins. The lower the Kelvins, the warmer the light, while higher Kelvins produce cooler light. As a general rule, outdoor lighting should fall between 2500K and 4000K for optimal effect.
Area |
Kelvin |
General |
2700K - a warm light ideal for most outdoor areas to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. |
Entertainment areas |
2000K - a warm reddish glow that mimics a glowing bonfire. Will provide a romantic or rustic feel. |
Landscape |
3000K to 4000K - a cooler light that mimics moonlight. Perfect for placing high in trees with the light facing downward. |
Architecture |
Between 2500K and 2700K |
IP Ratings - Safety when lighting your outdoor spaces.
An IP Rating is a two-digit grading system, measuring the degree of protection from things like dust, dirt, water, and bugs.
When it comes to lighting your outdoor space, choosing the right IP-rated product is important to ensure you avoid premature deterioration or potential electrical faults.