How lighting can accentuate your pergola
There are a number of great ways to use lighting to accentuate your pergola. Such as incorporation of fairy lights, accent lighting, LED lighting and so much more!
Have you just installed a gorgeous pergola and are looking to light it up? Or perhaps you are doing your lighting research to help in the pergola design decision process.
Whatever landed you here, you are in the right place to find out how to use lighting to accentuate your pergola!
Types of pergola lights
The first step, after you have your pergola built, is to pick your lighting option. Surprise, surprise, there are more than a few options out there too.
Incandescent bulbs
Incandescent bulbs are widely used across most pergolas, however Prime Building Projects advises that they are not the most efficient option. With a short lifespan and high energy use we would not recommend this option for your pergola.
Fluorescent Lights
Lasting longer than incandescent bulbs, Fluorescent lights are more economical and energy efficient. You also have a range of colours to choose from when lighting your pergola.
Halogen Lights
Halogen lights also trump incandescent lights producing a brighter/whiter light, using less electricity and boasting a longer life span. This is a good option.
LED Lights
At Prime Building Projects, we heavily encourage the use of LED lighting on pergolas. Initially the more expensive option, LED lights have the longest lifespan (meaning you will save money down the track on replacing bulbs) and are quite energy-efficient.
Pergola Lighting Ideas
String Lights
Affordable, easy to install and cheery all year round! This easy addition can make your pergola feel super cozy and welcoming all night long as you enjoy sitting under your new pergola.
Under-Table Lighting
A great option for any pergolas with dining areas, BBQs or cabinetry. Under-table lighting provides soft lighting that majorly assists in night time visibility and offers an aesthetic lighting design option.
In-Floor Lighting
If your pergola has suitable flooring such as decking or so forth, in-floor lighting can be a great option.
Hanging Lights and Downlights
Hang lights are a great addition to pergolas, with string or wired light fixtures available to add to your pergola’s rafters. This option will accentuate the architectural elements of your pergola. You could even add a chandelier if you so wish.
Lanterns
Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box when it comes to lighting your pergola. Lanterns are extremely cheap, portable and cute! We recommend battery operated lanterns to maximise safety.
Different Colours
The world of outdoor lighting is expanding and now you can choose from a range of colour options when lighting your pergola. Whether you are preparing for Christmas, or selecting a year round pop of colour, we recommend LEDs as the best way to achieve your colour desires. With pergolas, warm colours are a great option to keep cozy into the evening hours.
Pergola Lighting Locations
The location of your pergola lighting has a large impact on the overall vibe and look of your pergola. A freestanding pergola may require more consideration if you desire electrical lighting.
Consider whether you want guests to have light on them when standing or sitting, whether you want to light the table or BBQ and so on.
There are numerous options for positioning your lighting, such as eye level, from above, from below, under tables or wrapped around beams!
Direct or Indirect Pergola Lighting
When lighting your pergola you will need to decide between direct or indirect pergola lighting.
Direct lighting is where lights are fixed on particular points within the pergola, such as on the sink, lounge or BBQ.
Indirect lighting illuminates the area in general and can impact on the space’s mood.
Prime Building Projects recommends a mix of both direct and indirect lighting to create a warm atmosphere and also ensure you can see when eating or taking a seat.
Ultimately the lighting appeal of a pergola is completely subjective to the eye of the beholder. That being said, the experts at Prime Building Projects have years of experience installing pergola lighting designs to maximise on your space. A good lighting design can make all the difference to your outdoor area and ambience. So if you would like to know more, please get in touch with a member of our team today!