8 Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Patios & Pergolas

Covered Patio Lighting Ideas

Do you have a covered patio or pergola that you just don’t use enough? You might not want to use it when it’s dark because your lighting design isn’t welcoming and warm. Transform the ambiance of your garden structures with some simple and practical lighting aesthetics.

We’re excited to extend our light fixture options to the backyard, and we now offer covered patio lighting ideas that range from elegant chandeliers to sleek wall sconces. Explore our favorite exterior lighting ideas here for inspiration and use them in gazebos, deck covers, and other covered areas.

1. Laid-Back Vibes with Festoon Lights

If you’re looking for something laid-back, subtle, and simple, festoon lights with an exposed bulb deliver the epitome of cool for all types of illumination situations. They can make any type of outdoor structure feel modern, and they’re super easy to install.

For this style, we recommend choosing larger light bulbs and black hardware to create a contemporary industrial look that works well with nearly any type of pergola. This covered patio lighting idea can mix and match with natural wood, charcoal paint, and colorful setups! Liven up your festoon lights with a bit of extra greenery when you hang baskets full of vine plants to balance the all-black aesthetic.

2. Fun Lanterns & Shades

If you want to add a little boho flair to your backyard, this is the perfect covered patio lighting idea for you — especially if you already have plenty of light fixtures outside. Instead of swapping out or adding light fixtures, just change out the outdoor shades to add texture, color, and interest to your space. You can opt for big globes of colorful paper lanterns, woven natural shades, and even bright metal bulb cages.

3. Minimalist Vibes

You want to keep it minimalist and modern? We have a look for you too! A series of elegant, minimalist pendant lights offer a stunning covered patio lighting idea to complement any contemporary outdoor space. 

The benefit of outdoor pendant lighting is their subtle appearance and directional lighting. You can make a mid-century modern inspired statement with luminous acrylic globe fixtures or keep it simple with minimalist exterior lighting ideas.

4. Luxe Designs with Hanging Pendants

Whether you have a small balcony, expansive patio, or cute gazebo, you don’t have to compromise on style to ensure outdoor-compatible lighting materials. One of our favorite covered patio lighting ideas utilizes acrylic shades for pendant lights to provide the elegant look of glass with a durability that can withstand nearly any type of weather. 

Acrylic is a type of plastic that looks and functions like glass, diffusing light as evenly as possible. However, it’s much more durable outdoors because it’s scratch- and damage-resistant.

5. Ultra-Modern Glass Globes

A popular covered patio lighting idea for commercial spaces, globe pendant lights offer a mid-century modern aesthetic that elevates your exterior design. When you choose larger globe shades, you can use just two or three fixtures to completely light up your entire space. The larger shades diffuse light more efficiently around your whole patio and create a central focal point for the rest of your decor. We do recommend being careful with using glass shades outdoors and suggest they be for enclosed patios or sunrooms with protection from the elements.

6. Rustic Chandeliers for Extra Elegance

Do you have a central seating area or pool table in your covered outdoor space? Then a great covered patio lighting idea here would be a massive, dramatic chandelier. It places the focal point exactly where you want everyone to gather, and properly illuminates this central right space.

Flexible Lighting for Indoor/Outdoor Living

At Color Cord, we’ve made it our mission to provide modular light fixtures and accessories that allow you to personalize your lighting solutions. With our exterior lighting ideas, you can create any outdoor space you like while ensuring it’s well-lit, cozy, and comfortable.

And if you need any additional guidance, our team is here to help! Reach out now to speak with a knowledgeable customer service representative.