A pergola is more than a backyard fixture; it is a destination in which to sit, receive, and escape daily routines.
And, in such a fairy-like retreat, there is space for lighting. The correct amount of lighting can make your pergola a cozy, inviting place for all occasions.
If your style is a romantic dimness or a grand statement, the 15 best pergola lighting ideas can help plan the outdoor living room of your dreams.
1. String lights for a Whimsy Ambience
Stinging string lights is one of the best and most cost-effective ways of lighting your pergola. The dim flicker of string lights gives a romantic, cozy mood perfect for relaxing in the evening as well as for a romantic party.
Pro Tip: Go for solar-powered string lights or string lights consisting of LEDs for night-long, power-friendly lighting.
2. Hanging Lanterns for Rustic Ambience
Suspended lanterns provide a rustic, vintage touch to your pergola. Select vintage-patterned metal lanterns or Moroccan-patterned lanterns for an exotic touch.
Pro Tip: Make a change and go for battery-powered candles in lanterns for a flicker of warmth, risk-free.
3. Fairy lights for Enchanted Atmospheres
If you have a fondness for ethereal, dreamy settings, fairy lights are your adornment. Encase fairy lights on a pergola railing, string fairy lights in a climbing vine, or suspend fairy lights in a dazzling sheath.
Pro Tip: For a homely, cozy ambiance, go for warm fairy lights, and for a celebratory ambiance, go for colorful fairy lights.
4. Chandeliers for an Elegant Statement
Who says chandeliers have to stay indoors? With a weather-resistant chandelier, your outdoor living room can have a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Pro Tip: Go for a solar-powered or an LED chandelier for hassle-free wiring.
5. Pendant Light for a Modern Outlook
Hanging pendant lights add a stylish touch to outdoor rooms. They can be hung well above an outdoor dining set or seating group.
Pro Tip: Use dimmable LED bulbs so you can change the brightness according to your mood.
6. Globe lights for a cozy café ambiance
Globe string lights create a bistro-like setting, transforming your outdoor living area into an outdoor café. They also provide a small amount of light for parties and meals.
Pro Tip: Place them in a zigzag pattern for symmetrical lighting and a touch of sophistication.
7. Recessed Light for Minimalist Ambience
For a streamlined, modern look, position recessed LEDs between a pergola’s beams. This provides a delicate, understated source of light with nothing visible.
Pro Tip: Make adjustments in intensity and color temperature using smart bulbs.
8. Solar-Powered Lanterns for a Green Choice
Harness the power of sunlight in solar-powered lanterns. Place them along your pergola for an easy, hassle-free alternative.
Pro Tip: Select models featuring auto sensors that automatically turn on in the evening and off in the morning.
9. Fire Pit Light for Soft Light.
If your pergola area contains a firepit, make its warmth a major source of lighting. This will make your outdoor living space a welcoming place during cool weather.
Pro Tip: Counter your fire pit candles by pairing them with string lights.
10. LED strip lights for a touch of sci-fi.
Attach waterproof strip LED lights on your beams for a modern, cutting-edge look. They give silky, homogeneous lighting perfect for a modern style.
Pro Tip: Change moods and occasions with a color-changing LED strip.
11. Candlelight for an Intimate Atmosphere
There’s something magical about a delicate dance of candles. Supplement a set of candles with a set of candles in decorative holders for a naturally radiant warmth.
Pro Tip: Light citronella candles for a pest-free experience accompanied by a wonderful ambiance.
12. Paper lanterns for festive touch
Perfect for parties, paper lanterns add a colorful, festive element for an outdoor event. In a variety of different patterns and shades, paper lanterns make a beautiful contribution to nighttime celebrations.
Pro Tip: Replace bulbs with LEDs for a lower risk of fires and a longer lifespan.
13. Spotlights for Accenting Elements of Architecture
Use solar-powered or spotlighting LEDs on a portion of your pergola, say, on a sculpture, climbing vine, or piece of wood.
Pro Tip: Adjustable spotlights can be aimed precisely in the place they are needed.
14. Mason jar candles for a DIY touch
Get creative using mason jars by filling candles or fairy lights in them. Suspend mason jars in different heights for a rustic DIY touch.
Pro Tip: Paint or frost your jar for a personal, custom glow.
15. Rope Light for Soft Outline
Outline your pergola borders using rope lights for a tasteful, understated sheen. Suitable for defining your structure without overwhelming your room.
Pro Tip: Make sure to choose weather-resistant outdoor rope lights for durability.
Conclusion
Your pergola should be an extension of your home—welcoming, cozy, and tastefully well-lit in your style. Soft fairy lights, elegant chandeliers, or solar-powered, eco-friendly lanterns can all contribute to making your outdoor space lovely and mystical.
Which of these lighting concepts shall we tackle for your pergola? Give us a comment and let us redesign your backyard today!
