Outdoor Lighting Ideas That’ll Make Your Backyard Shine This Summer
05/27/2025
As the weather warms up and summer invites us outside, there’s no better time to transform your backyard into a cozy, stylish retreat. Whether you’re hosting evening BBQs, unwinding under the stars, or simply boosting your home’s curb appeal, the right lighting makes all the difference.
At Meehan Electrical Services, we’ve spent over 65 years helping homeowners enhance their outdoor spaces with thoughtful design and expert service. Here are our top outdoor lighting design ideas to make your backyard shine all season long.
1. String Lights: The Effortless Classic
Nothing says summer like the soft glow of string lights draped across a patio or woven through tree branches. Choose warm white bulbs for a romantic ambiance, or opt for colored bulbs to match a festive summer vibe. They’re easy to install, affordable, and instantly elevate any backyard setup.
Tip: Hang them over a dining area or around a pergola for a dreamy dinner-party feel.
2. Pathway Lighting: Beauty Meets Safety
Illuminate walkways, garden edges, and driveways with low-voltage or solar-powered path lights. These fixtures guide guests safely through your yard while adding elegant structure and charm. Install landscape lighting today!
Bonus: Pathway lights also highlight landscaping details you’ve worked hard on, even after the sun goes down.
3. Spotlights & Uplighting: Highlight the Best Features
Use spotlights to draw attention to trees, sculptures, or architectural elements. Uplighting, where the light is angled upwards, can make your yard feel more expansive and visually dramatic.
At Meehan Electrical Services, we recommend LED spotlights for their durability and energy efficiency, especially during those long summer evenings.
4. Lanterns & Sconces: Add Character
Wall-mounted sconces and decorative lanterns add both style and substance to your backyard design. They work beautifully around patios, outdoor kitchens, or beside doorways.
Look for fixtures with weatherproof materials and timeless finishes like bronze, black, or brushed nickel to complement any exterior décor.
5. Smart Outdoor Lighting: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Control brightness, color, and scheduling with smart lighting systems. Sync your backyard lights with your smartphone or smart home assistant for easy management and energy savings.
After 65 years in the industry, we’ve seen how smart lighting not only adds convenience but also improves security when you’re away from home.
6. Fire-Inspired Fixtures: Warm Up the Night
Add cozy charm with fire-inspired lighting such as tiki torches, fire bowls, or even LED flame-effect bulbs. These are great for creating a resort-like feel and encouraging guests to gather and relax.
Let Meehan Electrical Services Light the Way This Summer
Whether you're planning a backyard makeover or a subtle refresh, the right lighting can completely transform your space. At Meehan Electrical Services, we bring 65 years of experience and passion to every outdoor project, offering tailored solutions that blend function with beauty.
Ready to brighten up your backyard? Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can bring your summer nights to life.
