Outdoor lighting serves a variety of functions: style, ambiance, safety and, for home sellers, serious curb appeal.
Homeowners are increasingly elevating their exteriors with features such as dramatic uplighting to show off architectural features and soft downlighting that casts flower beds in an inviting glow.
"Lighting is one of the easiest ways to completely change the feel of a space, without breaking the bank,” says Ginger Wilcox, president of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, who also has a personal interest in renovating properties.
Whether owners are spotlighting a favorite tree, lighting up their walkway or stringing lights around a patio to transform their backyard into an after-dark oasis, outdoor lighting is no longer an afterthought—it’s a standout feature.
Homeowners looking to make an outdoor statement, either for visitors or to attract buyers, have a growing number of options, from professional-grade smart systems to solar-powered DIY kits.
Layer on the Outdoor Lights
A well-lit home exterior doesn’t just look good but can feel safe, welcoming and thoughtfully designed. “Integrated outdoor lighting is one of my favorite ways to transform a yard,” Wilcox says.
Here are some ways to do it:
- Uplighting can showcase tall trees, unique landscaping or textured exteriors.
- Downlighting can mimic moonlight, adding a cozy, elegant vibe to gardens and seating areas.
- Accent lights can bring focus and add visual drama to flower beds, sculptures or water features. Wilcox says LED-lit address plaques can be the “jewelry of your front entry,” eye-catching and functional.
Smart Lighting Solutions
Technology is adding even more functionality to outdoor lighting systems. Smart landscape lighting allows homeowners to control brightness, set schedules, adjust color temperature—or even completely change the color of the lights using an app or voice assistant.
Lighting updates may offer extra safety, too. For example, JascoPro has introduced landscape lights that function as normal uplights or downlights—but can be switched into an Emergency Flash mode. In case of a crisis, your outdoor lights can flash red, helping alert neighbors or guide emergency responders to your home. This kind of integration shows that landscape lighting is evolving not just as a design element—but as a functional one.
Affordable Alternatives: Solar Lighting
For a budget-friendly and DIY-friendly option, solar landscape lights are surging in popularity. They require no wiring or professional installation, and they can serve as a great low-cost option for illuminating paths or spotlighting trees in a landscape.
But keep in mind: Solar lights rely on sunlight to recharge. Place them in a well-lit area so they stay charged for longer periods during the evening hours.
