Night Lights

In the past, outdoor lighting required complicated electrical connections and an intricate system of wires buried underground. But the newest options in low-voltage lighting have made these systems remarkably easy to set up. In fact, if you’re so inclined, they’re easily in the realm of the do-it-yourselfer. Low-voltage lights have become the industry standard for most outdoor lighting, such as pathway, deck, step, well and spot lighting. Some of the larger fixtures, such as those that mount to the house or on a pole, aren’t available in low-voltage. But the newest products offer a stunning array of styles to match any home.

PATHWAY LIGHTS

FIXTURE: Typically mounted (or hung) on a pole that’s driven into the ground, and illuminates the edges of sidewalks, driveways and garden paths.

STYLE: Everything from contemporary to classic, and plastic to metal.

PROS: The newest low-voltage systems are easy to install; lights are available in a variety of styles, materials and price ranges.

CONS: Some less-expensive options aren’t as durable; installation still requires burying the wire in your yard.

COST: $20 to $200+

SPOTLIGHTS

FIXTURE: Adjustable in order to direct light at different angles. Great for highlighting a particular feature in the yard.

STYLE: Available in different materials and finishes, but they all look about the same. You also can find both ground- and wall-mounted options.

PROS: The perfect choice if you have a shrub, tree or other yard feature you want to draw interest to.

CONS: Styles are limited; not as conducive to blending into an overall lighting scheme as pathway lights.

COST: $40 to $150+

DECK LIGHTS

FIXTURE: Mounted to deck edges, railings or steps to enhance safety and provides a pretty evening atmosphere.

STYLE: Ranges from recessed step lights that are almost flush with step surface to fixtures that mount to the railings. Another option is a barbecue light for illuminating the grill as you cook.

PROS: Improves the safety of your deck; available in a variety of styles.

CONS: Requires more work to install the lights and hide the wires on a deck than in the yard.

COST: $20 to $100+

WELL LIGHTS

FIXTURE: Sunk into the ground to create a glow without actually being seen.

STYLE: Tends to be more utilitarian and options fewer because they’re meant to be invisible.

PROS: Good for uplighting trees and bushes as well as creating ambient effects. In-ground placement minimizes need for adjustments.

CONS: Installation is a bit more intensive because you have to dig wells for fixtures.

COST: $40 to $100+

OUTDOOR FIXTURES

FIXTURE: Adorns the exterior walls on porches and decks.

STYLE: Finishes and designs abound, and come with different purposes, including wall-mount, ceiling-mount and motion-security lights.

PROS: Available in many styles and materials; casts a brighter light than low-voltage landscape lights.

CONS: Not as safe to install as low-voltage lights; are constrained by your house location, as well as how your house is wired.

COST: $20 to $400+

POST LANTERNS

FIXTURE: Lantern mounted on a pole, usually on front walk.

STYLE: Tons. From Arts and Crafts in bronze to contemporary brushed-steel, there’s a lantern to go with your home.

PROS: Provides the biggest impact in terms of look and light; available in an array of styles and materials; gives a high-end look to any outdoor space.

CONS: Difficult to install.

COST: $75 to $500+