Making the decision to install outdoor lighting is the first step in transforming a mundane outdoor space into a beautiful outdoor oasis. There are many things to consider when creating a lighting design plan such as the number of lights, color light temperature, and types of light fixtures. A factor that can get overlooked is the size of the light fixture.
This week’s blog post acts as a general guide to finding the right sized outdoor lighting for various outdoor spaces that will enhance the aesthetic value and improve safety and security of the outdoor space.
Why Size Matters in Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting plays an important role for a property. They are functional as they provide illumination for people to easily navigate through an outdoor space at night. They act as a security measure, because a well-lit property isn’t going to be a target for intruders. But they also serve as a way to enhance the aesthetic value of a property as they can highlight focal points such as archways or tall trees.
Having the right sized outdoor lights is important because it will determine how the light fixture looks in comparison to the rest of the property and if it can provide the illumination needed for the space. Choosing too small of a light will give an unbalanced look and may not provide enough light. Opting for too big of a light will look comical and may be too bright.
Outdoor light fixtures should also be proportional to the area where it’s going to be installed to avoid electrical and physical damage. Ensure that they will not be installed in places that would be inconvenient, such as being too close to the garage door and interfering with its movement.
To determine the appropriate size for potential outdoor light fixtures, create a sketch of the light fixture’s dimensions and see how it will look inside the space. Another method is to use measuring tape to measure the fixture's dimensions at the intended installation site.
The right sized outdoor light fixtures will greatly improve the look and feel of any property.
Finding the Right Size for Outdoor Lights
The right size for outdoor lighting fixtures will depend on where the lights are to be installed. It will also depend on personal tastes and the style of the property. The below guide provides general guidelines for what the right sized outdoor lighting fixtures would be grouped by various outdoor spaces.
Front Entrance
The right size for wall lights and carriage lights at the front entrance is ⅓ to ¼ of the height of the door and trim. These lights should be at least 6 inches from the door frame and measure 66 inches from the ground to the center of the light fixture.
Front porch ceiling lights should be ⅓ to ¼ width of the door frame and set centered, 6 inches above the door.
Hanging light fixtures should be ⅕ of the height of the door and centered 6 inches above the door. They shouldn't hang more than 7 feet from the ground.
Garage
Outdoor light fixtures for garages depend on how big the garage is.
For single door garages, lights should be ⅓ to ¼ of the door’s height. They should be centered and 6 inches above the garage trim or door. They should be 6 inches from the edge of the door and 66 inches from the ground.
For a two-car garage, add additional lighting on either side of the doors and center a third light above the door, making sure that it doesn’t interfere with the function of the garage door.
Patio
Patio chandeliers that hang above a table should be ⅔ the width of the table for a standard look. If a bolder look is desired, go for a light with ½ the width of the table. Place the chandelier 30 to 34 inches above the table or 7 feet above the ground.
Pathway
The right light for path lights is 14 inches tall. Place path lights in a staggered pattern along a pathway for a more even illumination and look.
With these guidelines, finding the right sized outdoor lighting for any outdoor space is a breeze, ensuring an outdoor environment that is well illuminated and visually appealing.
Discover the Right Sized Lights with Lightch8in
Installing outdoor lighting will improve not only the aesthetic value of various outdoor spaces, but also provide enough illumination to increase safety and security. Getting the right sized outdoor lighting will help achieve this goal.
For any and all outdoor lighting needs, check out LightCh8in. Login or register for a LightCh8in account to explore path lights, deck lights, wall lights, and more, we have the perfect outdoor lighting solutions for any outdoor space. At LightCh8in, you can find the right sized outdoor lighting for any outdoor space.