Exterior lighting: How do I light my terrace properly?

A new summer is now fully here, bringing with it the desire to enjoy being outdoors. Terraces are a great place for lots of things: relaxing in the sun, games, breakfast, an aperitif at sunset, playing with the kids and even working from home while keeping nice and cool. But we often forget about our private terraces when the sun goes down. There is one reason for this in particular: a lack of lighting. So here are some ideas for how you can keep using your terrace into the night without it losing a jot of its charm.

What should I consider when choosing the lighting for my terrace?

There are three very important aspects to lighting a space, which can be summarised as SSQ: space, style and quality.

• Space: You need to consider the surface, the setting and any gaps to determine the intensity, colour and type of lighting. And you need to know what you are going to use each area for. If you want a table and chairs where you can sit late at night and share something to eat or drink, you need lighting that is relaxed but sufficient to see what you are doing easily. But it is a good idea for your lighting to leave centre stage to the night sky, and not to affect the interior lighting of your home.

• Style: You can draw on a range of resources depending on the decoration you choose. For example, if you decorate one of the walls of your terrace, you need a light to highlight that decoration, but without detracting from the whole. The colour of the light will also help you achieve the environment you want to create, while ensuring there is no glare. It is also a good idea for the decoration of your terrace to match the decorative style of your home, as this creates continuity.

• Quality: The quality of the lighting is essential, as it going to be outdoors. Your lighting must be able to cope with rain, dust, humidity, wind and so on. The electrics must be suitable for this setting, and you need to keep them in tip top condition to avoid accidents and risks.

   

Types of lighting for your terrace

You have various options for each area and activity. Here are some you can choose from:

• Overhead lights: One or more lights in the roof of your terrace can provide general lighting. You can limit the area lit to the areas you are going to be using, such as a table where you can have a drink or play a board game. This light shouldn't be too powerful or too cold. If you also choose a light with a dimmer switch, you can adapt your lighting levels whenever you want, creating just the right atmosphere for what you are going to be doing on your terrace. 

  You can choose anything from ceilings lights in a more urban and sober style to lights with a decorative function. Organic materials such as wicker and raffia are on-trend right now, although you should base your choice of this lighting on the decorative style of your terrace.

• Decorative lighting: this creates an atmosphere and enhances the decoration of your terrace. From strategically placed decorative lamps to strings of lights, there are many options to get the most out of your terrace. You can light up a special corner of your terrace, perhaps where you have a prominent decorative element or plant. Another option is to choose a statement lamp that acts as decoration in itself, such as a table or floor lamp. 

Always ensure that the devices you choose meet outdoor safety requirements. And there are no excuses, lots of different lamps are available. 

We'd like to highlight a couple of types because of their sustainability and versatility:

• USB-powered lamps: you can charge them in your home and take them out to the terrace when you need them. Their mobility opens up loads of possibilities, as you can move them around depending on what you are going to be doing on your terrace.

• Solar-powered lights: these charge from sunlight, so you get a saving on your electricity bill. They are also a good option for small lights that you leave on.

• LED lighting: their low consumption makes them less expensive, and this technology offers lots of decorative possibilities.

   

Outdoor lighting for your terrace

The lighting on your terrace will be exposed to the elements, so the lights you choose must meet all safety requirements, as we have mentioned. They must have been made for this purpose, and be able to cope with sun, rain and dust.

To check whether lights are suitable for your terrace, make sure they have a suitable IP code (Ingress Protection Code). IP is responsible for classifying light fittings according to the protection of their mechanical housings and electrical cabinets against intrusion, dust, accidental contact and water. In the European Union this uses the naming conventions of EN 60529 (CELENEC). Lights for your terrace must be IP54 at least. Specialist stores can advise you on products that are technically suitable for use outdoors.