We don’t always realize how remarkable and significant light is. It guides us in the dark when we walk or drive, allows us to read and write where otherwise we wouldn’t be able to. Light not only illuminates our surroundings but also influences our mood and wellbeing. Proper lighting always creates a welcoming atmosphere in our homes, it delivers comfort and safety.
When it comes to our front doors, effective lighting is essential. It serves as both a functional element, helping to navigate safely to our homes, and an aesthetic one, making a strong first impression.
In this blog post, we will discuss front door lighting, including installation specifications, measurements, and types of outdoor lighting fixtures, and share with you all the options for creating the perfect entrance.
Front Door Lighting Benefits:
Outdoor lighting should be given the same attention and consideration as indoor lighting. That said, it needs to include general, accent and task lighting.
1. Use your porch lights to welcome your guests at a front door.
Have you ever been invited to someone’s house for dinner and when parking realized it was pitch black? Perhaps, you were attempting to decipher the numbers on the house and even questioned if you came on the right day. Did your friends forget all about your plans? A simple outdoor porch scone would help dissolve your doubts and would immediately put you at ease.
2. Highlight some main exterior features on the house.
Thoughtfully designed front door lighting can highlight main architectural features, protect you from burglaries, and, in general, discourage uninvited guests from stepping on your property.
When it comes to design and selections, outdoor lighting should be given the same attention and consideration as indoor lighting. That said, it needs to include general, accent, and task lighting.
How to Choose Front Door Lighting
The Difference Between Wet and Damp Rating
Wet-rated lighting fixtures are designed to withstand direct exposure to heavy rain, snow, or ice. These fixtures are sealed and made with materials that resist water infiltration, making them perfect for areas that encounter intense weather conditions. Wet-rated fixtures are ideal for open decks and patios, driveway or pathway lighting, and uncovered garden areas.
Damp-rated lighting fixtures are suitable for areas that don’t have direct exposure to harsh weather but may experience moisture or humidity. They are designed to withstand minimal moisture but not direct rain or snow. These fixtures are ideal for covered porches and patios, gazebos with roofing, and covered outdoor kitchens.
Types of Front Door Light Fixtures to Consider:
In this section of the blog we would like to share our most recent outdoor light fixtures that we installed at our projects:
1. Tall LED Wall Sconce
Crafted from metal, this matte black sconce features an opal artisan glass shade, integrated LED lighting, and dimmable capabilities. While we installed it vertically at our Eastgate Estate Reno project, you could mount it horizontally as well. This light fixture is wet-rated.
2. Traditional Wall Lantern
Lanterns carry a lot of beauty and historical significance. In the US the first city to enjoy them was Boston back in 1800s. From religious events to sending messages between ships to stopping cars before the train arrivals lanterns witnessed it all. They are still popular and look quite elegant.
This three light outdoor traditional wall lantern at our Ferry View project comes in a textured black or brown finish over a steel frame. Clear glass panels allow you to see the bulbs fully.
3. Black Outdoor Wall Sconce Lantern Light
Boasting of features of a European lantern, this iron outdoor wall light looks modern, symmetrical and industrial. It’s clean design and metal frame with three classic candlestick bulbs bring timeless elegance and contemporary edge. We chose it for our Kirkland Farmhouse Project.
4. Recessed Lighting
These recessed lights in wood-paneled ceiling at Maple Leaf Project serve as an excellent example of ambient lighting, also referred to as general lighting.
This type of lighting is crucial for minimizing harsh shadows and dark areas, promoting safe navigation throughout any space, and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Ambient lighting acts as the essential illumination for this porch.
Placement and Size:
For a front door with a hanging lantern, the lantern height should be approximately 1/5 the height of the door. Hanging lanterns are hung using chain or stems connections, so be sure to consider the additional length of the chain or stem. The hanging lantern should not hang below 7’ from the ground, including the fixture, chain and stem.
Allow 6” minimum clearance from the bottom of the lantern to the top of the door to allow the door to open and close. If there is not enough clearance, consider using a flush mount outdoor fixture the height of the door.
When positioning a front door light on each side of the door, ensure they are 1/4 the height of the door for balanced illumination. Place the lights 66″ above the floor to properly light up the lock and handle. Additionally, position the lights 6″ from the edge of the door.