Pavilions are a great way to be protected from the elements while hosting birthday parties, barbeques, or other outdoor gatherings. To enjoy pavilions at night, install outdoor landscape lighting that will not only extend their use but increase visibility and enhance the beauty of the pavilion and the surrounding area.
This week’s blog illuminates what outdoor pavilions are, the benefits of having a pavilion, and ways to light up pavilions with outdoor landscape lighting to create a stunning, one-of-a-kind spot that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering.
What is a Pavilion?
Pavilions are freestanding, solid roofed structures, with no built-in base. Similarly to gazebos, they offer stronger protection against the rain, heat, or wind. They can be built over decks, patios, or seating areas to make these spaces more comfortable.
Pavilions can be used for a variety of activities such as outdoor cooking, hanging out at an outdoor bar, an outdoor dining area, or simply a place to unwind after a long day. Pavilions can be built to fit any sized outdoor space and customized to suit individual preferences. They will certainly increase the visual appeal of gardens and backyards. Before building a pavilion, check local building codes, as depending on its size and location, they may require permits and other considerations.
Pavilions are ideal for hosting the perfect outdoor gathering in comfort and style.
How Does a Pavilion Differ from Gazebos and Pergolas?
There might be confusion over how pavilions are different from gazebos and pergolas. While pavilions, gazebos, and pergolas provide shelter from the elements, the main difference between them are their structures.
Pergolas offer some shade and protection from the weather. They can be installed freestanding or to the side of a building. Their roofs are the main differentiator as they are usually more open than pavilions or gazebos.
Gazebos are freestanding, fully roofed structures. They usually can also have a built-in floor and partially enclosed sides. They are more ornamental and detailed than pergolas or pavilions.
Deciding which of the three structures is best largely depends on what they will be used for, personal preference, and weather conditions.
Outdoor Landscape Lighting Tips for Pavilions
The perfect way to light a pavilion depends on its design and desired aesthetic for the space. Below are some general guidelines for showcasing pavilions in the best light.
Up Lights and Well Lights
These outdoor light fixtures are perfect for highlighting unique architectural features of the pavilion or its surroundings. Illuminate tall structures such as trees, pavilion posts, or statues from the ground up to turn them into stunning focal points. While both up lights and well lights provide an upward beam of light, they have distinct looks. Up lights are light fixtures that are installed above ground and are visible, while well lights are installed flush to the ground and remain concealed.
Down Lights
Use downlights to highlight the structure of the pavilion's top or within the pavilion for interior lighting that’s perfect for a seating area. Consider installing downlights to get a moonlighting effect. To achieve this effect, install downlights from a nearby tree about 20-25 feet in the air. Doing so will give light that mimics natural moonlight for an added magical feel.
Path Lights
Increase safety by installing path lights along any pathways. An illuminated path prevents trips or falls when traveling to or from the pavilion at night.
Stagger the path lights instead of installing them in parallel lines. This will give a more aesthetically pleasing look.
Colored Lighting
Installing lights with customizable colors is trendy, fun, and allows for the creation of a unique setting that’s perfect for any outdoor function. For example, color coordinate the lights with the holidays or set it to the birthday girl’s favorite color. Customizable colored lights make the pavilion the go-to spot to hang out.
Illuminate Outdoor Pavilions with LightCh8in
Pavilions are a great investment for any outdoor space. They are customizable to fit any space or design aesthetic and can become the preferred spot to hang out with friends and family. Installing outdoor landscape lighting in and around a pavilion offers benefits such as extending the use of pavilions past sunset and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.
Log in or register for a free LightCh8in account today! Explore our vast inventory of everything outdoor landscape lighting that is perfect to set up any outdoor landscape lighting project. From brass light fixtures, direct burial cable, LEDs, and lighting accessories, find the perfect equipment to brilliantly light any outdoor environment.