If you still don’t have wall lights, you’re missing out. And if you ask us, installing outdoor wall lights is a smart move for any homeowner.
Wall lights are helpful not only for finding your keys at night, but also for illuminating your surroundings. Hint: Intruders are allergic to bright yards. Did we mention how stylish your house and outdoor would look with them on? Wall lights are perfect for making a statement and setting the mood for your evening outdoor activities.
Buckle up, because in this article, we’re diving into everything you need to know about choosing the perfect outdoor wall light for your—well, walls. Let’s get glowing.
Why Outdoor Wall Lights Are Kind of a Big Deal
Ah, wall lights. Where functionality meets flair.
Picture this: You’ve spent hours trimming hedges, sweeping the patio, and picking out the perfect potted plants. Your outdoors look stunning during the day when the sun is up! But come nighttime, it’s dark and dingy.
This is why wall lights are great for your home’s after-dark glow:
- They boost your home’s kerb appeal — Ever driven past a house with a bright front yard at night and just said, “Wow!”?
- They make outdoor spaces usable in the evening — Garden party, anyone?
- They improve safety and security — No more tripping over rogue plant pots and the toy your kid left outside, or worrying about who’s lurking in the shadows (because there won’t be any!)
And, honestly, outside wall lights are just cool and stylish.
Modern vs. Traditional: The Great Style Debate
That’s right. The biggest question of them all: Do you look for sleek and contemporary style in your lights, or are you more of a classic charm enthusiast?
Modern Outdoor Wall Lights
These are for the minimalists, the new-build heroes, and the “less is more” crowd. These wall lights typically have clean lines, black or metallic finishes, smoked or frosted glass, and a vibe that whispers, “I know what I’m doing.”
Modern exterior lighting is perfect for:
- Architectural facades
- Stylish patios
- Instagram-ready exteriors
Traditional Outdoor Wall Lights
A touch of old-school charm might be a breath of fresh air for your home. Traditional outdoor wall lights often feature lantern-style designs, ornate brackets, and finishes such as antique bronze or matte black.
In other words, these lights are brimming with character.
They’re often used in:
- Period homes and cottages
- Walled gardens
- Channelling your inner Bridgerton after sundown
Types of Outdoor Wall Lights: Let’s Break It Down
Not all wall lights are created equal. And we’re not talking style. We mean function. Some are there to create drama. Others? They’re workhorses in disguise.
Up and Down Wall Lights
Got a gorgeous brickwork that needs showing off? Looking to add drama to your outdoor walls? These sleek fixtures direct light both upwards and downwards, creating a scene that looks straight out of a design magazine. These are great for:
- Ambient lighting
- Highlighting architectural features
- Creating a sense of depth and space
- Impressing the neighbours
You can typically see them used in garden walls and front entrances.
Bulkhead Wall Lights
These wall lights are designed for durability. They were originally used in industrial and commercial settings, providing functional and robust lighting. Their usually sturdy, enclosed housing helps them endure battering from the British weather.
Providing bright, focused, and typically wide-beam light, bulkhead wall lights are often used in side paths, utility areas, walkways, entrances, and parking lots.
Here’s a simple table to better compare the two types of wall lights:
Lights That Work Smarter, Not Harder
Smart lighting is the new “META” for the modern man or woman.
Motion Sensor Wall Lights (PIR)
Using Passive Infrared (PIR) sensors, these wall lights turn on only when someone (or something!) walks by. They’re energy-efficient and excellent for security. Finally, no more fumbling for the switches.
Smart Wall Lights
Functions like any smart light would: Control your lights with your phone, schedule them to come on at sunset, or even change colours.
These are especially helpful when you’re on vacation. Lights coming on at night will give the impression that someone’s home. Intruders will think twice before even thinking about stepping onto your property.
Just avoid posting things like, “We’re on vacation and no one’s home.” But we know you’re better than that.
Dusk-to-Dawn Wall Lights
These lights have photocell sensors that know when it’s getting dark. They turn the lights on at dusk and off at dawn. It’s lighting that runs itself (unlike your dog).
Where to Put Them: Placement Tips That Just Work
Here’s what most people don’t realise: Lighting needs to be strategic. You don’t put a light on a wall just because it feels nice or the energies tell you to.
Here are some placement ideas to get you started right:
- Front Door: Go for symmetry with a pair of up/down lights or a classic lantern.
- Back Garden Wall: Add ambience with warm white LED fixtures or decorative designs.
- Side Passages & Alleys: Safe and simple solutions work well for these areas. Bulkhead and PIR sensor lights are great here.
- Outdoor Dining Area: Opt for dimmable or smart options to create the perfect vibe.
Pro Tip: When it comes to colour temperatures, Warm white (2700K–3000K) = cosy and welcoming, while Cool white (4000K) = bright and secure.
Things to Consider Before You Buy
We know, we know—you’re excited to brighten up your outdoors now that you have all this new outdoor wall lights knowledge. But hold your horses. Before you buy, tick off this quick checklist:
IP Rating: Since you’re lighting outdoors, opt for waterproof garden wall lights, ideally with an IP rating of 44 or higher. For ultra-exposed areas, aim for at least an IP65.
Size & Scale: Don’t go too small or too big. Your wall lights should complement, not disappear or overpower.
LED, Always: Don’t be fooled by the cheaper upfront cost of non-LED lights. Always go for energy-saving, long-lasting, and low-maintenance lights. LED is the only sensible choice.
Installation Needs: Hardwired? Call an electrician. Solar-powered? DIY-ready.
Our Favourite Wall Lights
Not to name drop, but Simple Lighting is one of the leading online LED suppliers in the UK, offering high-quality indoor and outdoor lighting for the past 9 years. And, you guessed it, they have a range of LED wall lights that are sure to level up your outdoor space.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor wall lights go beyond just seeing where you’re going. They’re about making a statement and adding a bit of personality to your outdoors.
Whether you’re going for modern, classic, or something in between, adding outdoor wall lights to your home and garden ensures a bright and stylish outdoor experience that you’re sure to be proud of.
Ready to light up your outdoors? Head to Simple Lighting’s website today to browse our collection of affordable, high-quality outdoor wall lights.
