Exterior lighting is just as important as an interior lighting design. Universally designed exterior lighting ensures a smooth transition between indoors and out when the evening rolls in. Well-executed exterior lighting design also makes all the difference in transforming your entrance from run-of-the-mill to inviting, welcoming and safe.

Other areas of the home, such as patios and walkways, also deserve attention, as these are the areas people navigate to get to the final destination — accident free — to relax and rejuvenate. The lighting options here will make your outdoor spaces safer for everyone, from those with aging eyes and bodies to little ones trying out their wings. Sutton Suzuki Architects The exterior lighting for this home clearly indicates the different outdoor zones, while the front door is marked by the wash of lights. All of the entrances are on a single level, with an optional staircase. McKay Landscape Lighting Here is another great example of creating a visual cue to a destination point. This home offers single-level access and a great defining sculpture to lead you to the front entrance. I also love the color and material contrast to help define the different zones or areas of the home. Phil Kean Design Group While the path to this home's front entrance might be a little long for some, the LED lighting along its landings indicates the way to the front door. Soloway Designs Inc | Architecture + Interiors Large landing zones, short risers, step lights and strategically placed benches for rest stops allow for an easier approach to the front door here. YOGESH WADHWANA For the patio area of this home, the rope lighting around the perimeter of the raised beds offers a few benefits: It clearly defines the path to the entry-exit point of the building and keeps people from bumping into the raised beds. McKay Landscape Lighting The down lighting in the retaining wall lights the path here, and the large coping stone offers a welcoming seat where someone can rest along the way. Land & Water Design This wonderful display of uplighting not only highlights and enhances the landscape and architectural features of the space, but also offers a reference point for someone to gauge distances and varying grades in the garden. EnvironmentalLights.com If you have a deck, consider LED rail lighting, like this one from Environmental Lights. It offers a modest amount of light that's dimmable with no glare, and easily marks the perimeter of the deck. über iron And while you're at it, don't forget you can also light the newel posts too!

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