Are you looking to enhance your home’s curb appeal while also increasing safety and security? Outdoor lighting is the key. But where are the best places to add light to make the most of your lighting system? The following are five common exterior lighting placements that are a must if you want to show your home in the best light possible. 

1. Front door

A well-lit front door is essential. Although that may seem obvious, if you take a walk around your neighborhood at night, you’ll probably notice a few houses with burnt out bulbs, lights that are too bright or at the wrong height, or front doors obscured by shadows. 

If you want to create an inviting atmosphere for visitors to your home, installing warm white lights in a large, wall-mounted fixture next to your door is the way to go. You can even add a hanging pendant light, if you have a covered porch. 

Be sure to place the fixture above shoulder height (usually around 5.5 or 6 feet up from the bottom of your door), so that the light won’t shine directly into the eyes of visitors. With the light shining down, you’ll be able to see clearly when unlocking your door and will also be able to see who is at the door when you are inside looking out.

2. Garage/driveway

When you come home at night, you want to be able to safely navigate up your driveway and into your garage. Proper lighting on your garage increases the security of your home and discourages criminal activity. Many homeowners choose wall-mounted fixtures on either side of the garage door, but you could also consider motion sensor lights on the corners of your garage, which will save energy costs without sacrificing safety.

3. Landscaping

Do you have a favorite tree in your yard? Maybe you have a fountain or statue or plants with interesting leaves. Using uplighting in your landscaping can highlight these features beautifully at night, creating interesting lines and shadows as well. Moonlighting can also be added high in your trees to cast a soft, silvery glow over your property.

4. Pathways and steps

Some of the most important areas to add lights are pathways, walkways, steps, or stairs. You want to be sure that visitors can see any tripping hazards. If you’re worried that your pathway will end up looking like an airplane runway, stagger the lights on either side of the path. 

5. Outdoor living areas

If you have a patio, outdoor kitchen, firepit, pool, or other outdoor living area, adding lights will extend their use. You will be able to enjoy your backyard well into the evening all year long. Focus on softer, warm lights in these areas to maintain a cozy, relaxed feel.

Ready to get started? Houston Lightscapes can help!

Now that you have a better idea of where you need to have exterior lights, let the professionals at Houston Lightscapes transform your home with a stunning outdoor light display! When you call (713) 461-3600 for your free consultation, our lighting professionals will schedule a time to walk your property with you, discussing options and ideas. Once they have your vision, they will present you with a customized plan. Installation is quick and easy, and we cover and bury all wires, so you won’t even know we were there. No property is too big or too small. Call us today!