Lighting makes all the difference in how your outdoor kitchen looks and feels. The right outdoor lighting helps you see what you're cooking and transforms your outdoor living space into a cosy atmosphere for gatherings. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some of the best types of lighting for outdoor kitchens, where to use them, and the benefits of using them! 🤩
1. String Lights
String lights are a simple, affordable, and charming way to bring warmth to your outdoor kitchenette. These lights are great for creating a cosy atmosphere without being too overpowering, making them a perfect choice for casual gatherings or intimate dinners. You can also find solar-powered versions, which are ideal if you don’t have access to an outlet in your garden kitchen! ⭐️
Where to Use:
Over or around pergolas
On fences
Wrapped around trees
Why They’re Great:
Easy to install and affordable.
Create a soft glow.
Available in solar-powered options.
2. LED Strip Lights
LED strip lights are thin lights that can be placed in or under outdoor kitchen cabinets, worktops, or along the edges of your outdoor BBQ kitchen. These lights can highlight key features of your outdoor living area and come in a variety of colours, with brightness often adjustable through remotes or apps, allowing you to easily change the lighting to suit the mood and occasion! 😁
Where to Use:
Under countertops and outdoor kitchen cupboards.
Around garden bars and outdoor seating areas.
Ideal for a modern and sleek look.
Why They’re Great:
Energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Available in different colours.
Variety of colours to choose from.
3. Hanging Pendant Lights
Pendant lighting that hangs from the ceiling is perfect for highlighting specific areas of your outdoor BBQ kitchen, such as an outdoor bar area, kitchen island, or dining area! Pendant lights come in a wide variety of styles, so there will always be one that fits with your outdoor BBQ area. 💡
Where to Use:
Above the kitchen island, outdoor seating areas, or bar areas.
Over an outdoor dining table as a centrepiece.
Under a covered patio for protection from the weather.
Why They’re Great:
Available in many designs to suit your style.
Serve as a statement piece.
Ideal for task lighting in areas where you need focused light.
4. Recessed Downlights/Spotlights
Recessed ceiling lights are excellent for sheltered outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas with some form of cover. These ceiling lights provide bright illumination without taking up much space, making any outdoor kitchen and BBQ area look luxurious and modern. They work particularly well for lighting outdoor grilling stations or dining areas. 🧑🍳
Where to Use:
In the ceiling of a covered patio or pergola.
Above outdoor cooking areas or seating areas.
Great for a modern and minimal look.
Why They’re Great:
Simple design that blends into the ceiling.
Bright enough for grilling and prep areas.
Perfect for outdoor kitchens with roof coverings.
Don’t take up much space.
5. Wall Lights
Outdoor wall lights are mounted on the walls surrounding your outdoor kitchen and provide lots of light in your outdoor living space. They can be modern, rustic, or classic in style and offer safety by lighting up darker areas. ✨
Where to Use:
On walls surrounding the outdoor kitchen.
Near seating or dining areas for extra lighting.
Around the perimeter of your space.
Why They’re Great:
Easy to install.
Provide extra visibility in darker spots.
Available in various designs to fit any style.
6. In-Ground and Pathway Lights
In-ground or pathway lights are installed into the ground or decking around your outdoor kitchen and are perfect for lighting paths and walkways or adding subtle illumination around seating areas. 🍃
Where to Use:
Along pathways or steps leading to the BBQ kitchen.
Around outdoor seating or dining areas.
Along patio edges.
Why They’re Great:
Help light up paths and steps for safety.
Energy-efficient—solar-powered options are available.
Durable and made to withstand outdoor conditions.
Choosing the right garden lighting for your outdoor kitchen is key to making it both useful and welcoming. Whether you want the cosiness of string lights, the modern look of LED strips, or the practicality of wall lights, there’s a style for every space. Mix and match to create a well-lit, comfortable outdoor living space you can enjoy day and night. 🔥
If you have any questions about outdoor lighting or outdoor kitchens, be sure to contact us! 📲
Sizzle on,
Team AOS