Tell us if this sounds like you. You are all about interior lighting. From the chic pendants hanging over your kitchen island to the chandelier in your master bedroom, you've got this lighting thing down pat. But — have you thought about exterior house lights? If not, you definitely should.
First of all, outdoor lighting adds major curb appeal. Similarly to the interior of your home, light fixtures help to complete the visuals, whether it's your doorway, porch, patio, or garage. Secondly, they offer increased security by shedding light on the dark corners of your front and backyard.
Video of the Day
Video of the Day
While flush mounts and pendant lights look best on front porches, sconces live comfortably alongside doors and garages, and post lights are ideal for driveways and posts, of course. Also remember to use LED bulbs — they're energy-efficient and will save you tons of money.
Ready to get started? Here are eight exterior house light ideas worth considering.
1. Go for something unexpected.
To go slightly off the beaten path, ponder copper exterior house lights. They're a nice departure from the usual black or brass lights you typically see outside, and they look particularly striking with a black exterior, as proven by this abode from Mike Stevens Homes and spotlighted on Home Bunch.
Get the look: Rejuvenation Carson 12" Wall Sconce, $269
2. Amp up the drama.
When aiming for trend-proof home exterior ideas, think about partnering your white home with black lighting. It's a flawless look that's been mastered by Mandi of Vintage Revivals.
3. Opt for a classic.
Whether your home can be described as modern farmhouse or traditional, an old-fashioned lantern will always look just right. Carolyn of My Chic Obsession went with a wall lamp version for her front door, and the result is simply timeless.
Get the look: Designers Fountain Outdoor Wall Lantern, $33.99
4. Consider modern lighting.
Although we fully approve of vintage-inspired fixtures, we also adore modern exterior house lights that push the envelope a bit. They add cool, head-turning visual interest to something as standard as a garage, as demonstrated by this home from Leclair Decor.
Get the look: LD Shoppe Talib Outdoor Sconce, $466
5. Show your posts some love.
For a patio, we highly recommend post lights that come in handy for gatherings or simply an evening with your family sitting around the fire. Shauna from The House of Silver Lining perched these candle-lantern style fixtures atop stone posts, and the end result looks especially stylish.
Get the look: Hinkley Three Light Outdoor Lantern, $529
6. Don't be afraid to incorporate a little pizzazz.
Why should interior lighting get all of the glory? For example, in the case of this porch styled by Melanie of A Small Life, a black flush mount gets a new lease on life with a star-shaped, attention-grabbing border.
Get the look: CB2 Bell Black Flush Mount Light, $59.95
7. Try a pendant.
People tend to go with flush mounts and sconces outside, which are fabulous choices. But have you considered a pendant? They work quite well on porches, providing style and standing out a little more than a typical flush mount. This industrial guard fixture by Barn Light Electric Company is oh-so-charming.
8. Illuminate your doorway with a sconce (or two).
Sconces have this uncanny ability to tuck themselves into narrow or tight spaces, which makes the wall on either side of your front door the perfect home for them. You can include one large fixture for plenty of light or flank your doorway with two fixtures to spread out the illumination. We love the brass lamp that Emily Henderson chose to pair with the warm wood finish of this double-door entry.
Get the look: Rejuvenation Lombard Lantern Large LED Wall Sconce, $649