How to Choose an Outdoor Lamp for Patios, Decks & Entertaining Areas
The right lamp turns a patio or deck from somewhere you sit after dark into somewhere you want to be. Outdoor lamps add warmth, help guests move around safely, and set the mood for long summer evenings. This guide explains how to choose an outdoor lamp for your patio, deck or entertaining area.
1. Start with how you use the space
- Dining and entertaining: soft, even light at table height, without glare in people's eyes.
- Lounging: lower, warmer light that creates atmosphere.
- Pathways and steps: enough light to move around safely.
- Poolside: portable, weather-resistant lamps you can move as needed.
2. Choose the right size
Scale matters outdoors. A lamp that looks big in the shop can disappear on a large deck.
| Space | Suggested lamp height |
|---|---|
| Small balcony or courtyard | About 480–600 mm |
| Medium patio or deck | About 600–700 mm |
| Large entertaining area or poolside | About 800 mm, or group several lamps |
Grouping lamps of two or three heights creates depth and looks more designed than a single lamp.
3. Pick a style that suits your home
Modern and minimalist
Clean lines and powder-coated steel suit contemporary homes, rendered walls and concrete or stone paving. The G-4525 garden lamp comes in 480, 620 and 800 mm heights.
Coastal and resort
Woven textures bring a relaxed, holiday feel to timber decks and poolside areas. The G-4532 rattan lamp is available in black or tan in three sizes, with a carry handle.
Statement pieces
A sculptural lamp becomes a feature in its own right. The G4531-60 woven lamp stands 600 mm tall with a distinctive flat-weave shade.
4. Check weatherproofing
Outdoor lamps need to handle rain, dust and humidity. Look for IP65 or higher, which protects against dust and water jets from any direction. All our rechargeable outdoor lamps are rated IP65. Read IP ratings explained for outdoor lamps for more detail.
5. Decide how it will be powered
- Hard-wired: permanent, but needs a licensed electrician and fixed placement.
- Solar: cable-free, but struggles under patio roofs and in shade.
- Rechargeable: cable-free, consistent, and works anywhere, including under cover.
For covered patios and alfresco areas, rechargeable lamps are usually the most practical choice. See rechargeable vs solar garden lights for the full comparison.
Suggested image: a styled Australian deck or alfresco area at dusk with a group of two or three outdoor lamps of different heights.
Alt text: Group of rechargeable outdoor lamps lighting a deck at dusk
Backyard lighting ideas
- Place a tall lamp at the corner of the deck to frame the space.
- Line the steps down to the lawn or pool with smaller lamps.
- Set a lamp beside outdoor lounges for reading and conversation.
- Mix warm lamplight with string lights for a layered look.
- Take a lamp to the campsite or beach for the evening.
Frequently asked questions
How many outdoor lamps do I need for a patio?
For a medium patio, two or three lamps of different heights usually give balanced light. Larger areas may need more, grouped around seating and walkways.
Can outdoor lamps be left out in the rain?
IP65-rated lamps are designed for rain and outdoor conditions. It's still wise to bring them under cover during severe storms.
Are rechargeable outdoor lamps good for undercover areas?
Yes. Unlike solar lights, they don't need direct sun, so they're ideal for patios, verandahs and pergolas.
Find your perfect lamp in our outdoor lamps collection.
