2025 garden lighting trends

1. Smart lighting for convenience and efficiency

Smart lighting technology is becoming a key feature in modern garden design, offering energy-saving benefits and customisable settings.

• App-controlled lights – Adjust brightness and colours from your phone.
• Motion-sensor lighting – Ideal for security and energy efficiency.
• Timers and dimmable features – Set lighting schedules for effortless control.

How to use smart lighting in your garden:

• Install solar-powered path lights for an eco-friendly touch.
• Use colour-changing LED strips to create different moods.
• Opt for automated systems that adjust brightness based on sunset times.

2. Warm, ambient lighting for a cosy atmosphere

In 2025, garden lighting is shifting away from harsh white light in favour of softer, warm-toned illumination.

• Festoon lights & fairy lights – A timeless way to add charm.
• Lanterns & candle-effect lighting – For a romantic, intimate glow.
• Wall-mounted up/down lights – Highlighting architectural features and pathways.

3. Statement lighting for focal points

Lighting is being used as a design feature rather than just a functional addition.

• Architectural lighting – Spotlighting trees, water features, or sculptures.
• Globe and orb lights – Floating effects for a futuristic look.
• LED strip lighting – Running along decking, seating, or pathways.

4. Layered lighting for depth and drama

Combining different lighting types adds dimension and texture to outdoor spaces.

• Task lighting – For outdoor cooking, dining, and workspaces.
• Accent lighting – Highlighting planting and focal points.
• Ambient lighting – Creating an overall glow for a relaxed feel.

5. Solar-powered and energy-efficient lighting

Sustainability is at the heart of 2025 garden lighting trends, with homeowners opting for low-energy, eco-friendly solutions.

• Solar lanterns and spotlights – Harnessing natural energy for cost-free illumination.
• LED bulbs – Longer-lasting and more efficient than traditional bulbs.
• Low-voltage systems – Reducing electricity use while maintaining brightness.

6. Recessed lighting for a sleek, modern look

Built-in lighting is trending for its clean aesthetic and subtle effect.

• Decking lights – Embedded LED strips or spotlights for soft glow.
• Paving lights – Seamlessly lighting walkways and driveways.
• Step lights – Enhancing safety and design appeal.

How to use recessed lighting effectively:

• Combine with warm-toned LEDs for a natural, inviting feel.
• Space out step and pathway lights to avoid over-illumination.
• Install underwater lighting in ponds for a soft, shimmering effect.

7. Moonlighting: natural, soft illumination

Moonlighting is a technique where lights are positioned high in trees or structures to mimic natural moonlight, creating subtle, dappled shadows.

• Soft white lighting – Perfect for a gentle, natural glow.
• Tree-mounted fixtures – Directing light downward for a dreamy effect.
• Diffused lighting – Reducing harsh shadows for a balanced ambiance.

8. Firelight and natural glow effects

As gardens become an extension of indoor living, natural lighting features are growing in popularity.

• Fire pits & outdoor fireplaces – A warm, flickering alternative to electric lights.
• Candle-lit lanterns – Adding a rustic, charming feel.
• Glow-in-the-dark pathways – Using luminescent stones for a magical nighttime effect.