Home » Misc » Gazebo lighting ideas

Gazebo lighting ideas


10 ways to add sparkle and glow |

(Image credit: Tetra Images LLC/Alamy Stock Photo)

Gazebos make a great backyard retreat at any time of day but they really come into their own at night when dressed up with lights. Gazebo lighting ideas can create an evening space that's perfect for entertaining, a special dinner or simply a stunning way to show off the backyard at night.

Gazebos look especially welcoming when the lights are switched on at dusk and it's time for them to take center stage in the night-time garden. A well-lit gazebo works as an architectural focal point at night, too. The freestanding, open structure is ideal for outdoor lighting ideas, especially if it features a domed roof that’s supported by pillars or columns as this creates opportunities for a combination of gazebo lighting ideas.

There are also temporary pop-up fabric gazebo structures that provide a useful space for socializing at night, can be positioned wherever you want them and can also be beautifully decorated with lights.  

Gazebo lighting ideas

Which gazebo lighting style will you choose? From sparkling string lights and glowing festoons to vintage style chandeliers and modern built-in LED strip lights there's plenty of choice for your backyard lighting ideas.

1. Use pretty string lights for a magical vibe

(Image credit: Lights4Fun)

If you're hosting a garden party the best place to start with lights is up high. Span strings of sparkling outdoor string lighting ideas above your entertaining space for maximum impact. Choose string lights if you're covering bigger areas as they're lightweight, come in connectable designs and are easy to work with as well as being affordable.

'String lights are such a great way to light up your gazebo,' says Lights4Fun 's creative manager Lucy Kirk. 'To create the ultimate display, use multiple sets of warm white connectable fairy lights so you can swag the fairy lights back and forth underneath the roof of your gazebo for the perfect fairy light canopy. This will create a cozy ambience throughout your space.'

Faux candles in lanterns are directional and superb for creating ambience when dotted around or grouped together in a gazebo for maximum effect. 'By using various lighting options, you create a designer look with romantic overtones while avoiding harsh lighting,' says interior designer Sanel Konyar of Interior Collection .

2. Go Regency-style formal with a chandelier

(Image credit: Hilary Brodey/GettyImages)

Chandeliers aren’t just for the dining room. They can be hung in a variety of outdoor locations to add a touch of luxury when the sun goes down. Make a bold statement and hang a chandelier from the roof of your gazebo, choosing a style of light that best complements the space.

Whether electric or solar-lit, an elegant chandelier over the table is one of those gazebo lighting ideas that help switch up the space for an al fresco dinner. A vintage-style chandelier with teardrop crystals adds glimmer and shine for a more formal vibe that helps to create a sense of occasion.  

A vintage-style chandelier creates an air of elegance for your patio gazebo. If fitting the gazebo with dedicated electricity seems like too much hassle, remove all the wiring and sockets from an old chandelier and turn it into a battery-run chandelier by replacing the lights with faux tealights. Layer up the look with similar candles as part of the tablescaping.

3. Choose festoon lights for an old school feel

(Image credit: IKEA)

Festoon lights have a traditional feel with their big bulbs. The shapely glass globes come in warm whites or multi-colors. It's a look that's big right now, with festoon lights a firm favorite when it comes to garden parties. They are also one of the best gazebo lighting ideas, adding a subtle look that's not too harsh.

'Lights that are too bright for a gazebo can ruin the mood at night-time, which is where festoon lights come into play,' says Sam Richards of Gazeboshop . 'For pop-up gazebos, outdoor festoon lights can be attached along the frame and used to build a warm atmosphere, particularly when partnered with strip lights or lanterns. '

The latest styles of festoon lights combine energy efficient LEDs with more practical translucent plastic cases, designed to perfectly imitate the nostalgic look of the traditional version, while being virtually unbreakable.

4. Turn your gazebo into a backyard focal point

(Image credit: FOTOGRAFIA INC/Getty Images )

As well as lighting ideas for a gazebo within the space itself it's a great idea to light it up so it glows when seen from a distance too. Whether it's a hexagonal timber gazebo or a more stark modern style, it will look enchanting at night with the right lighting and become a real focal point in the backyard. This is a great example of using lighting to illuminate a specific feature.

Think about how best to light the gazebo with a wash of light picking out key elements around it, such as backlighting the planting and gently illuminating the steps. Use mirroring in the foreground to pick out these details then layer up the lighting effect in the gazebo. Letting your lights meet at a centered fixture will add pleasing symmetry to your space too.

(Image credit: SUNS)

Treat the outdoors like the indoors by using a combination of decorative lanterns and free-standing floor lamps to create a blended area that’s perfect for a relaxed atmosphere. Overhanging floor lamps add a real design element. Choose one that's height adjustable and preferably with dual effects so you can choose direct down-light or diffused up-light. 

'Whether you have a permanent or pop-up gazebo, lighting your garden structure will allow you to make the most of your outdoor space at night,' says Reilly Gray of SUNS Lifestyle . 'Just like in your interiors, you will want to create a layered lighting scheme in your outdoor structure as well. This will help create ambience while ensuring there's enough lighting for socializing or relaxing. Freestanding lamps and lanterns that are solar-powered and rechargeable are great as they can be moved around easily, offering a lot more flexibility and the option of directional lighting. '

Lighting styles like this are ideal for a luxe fixed gazebo style for your terrace. Choose a style with flexible shutters in the roof and side screens. That way you can use it year round at night to make the most of your gazebo.

6. Fix up a gazebo cottagecore style

(Image credit: Polly Wreford/Future)

If you love the idea of a nostalgic fairy tale gazebo with vintage style prints and lots of freshly picked flowers you'll be wanting lighting ideas for a gazebo that match this cottagecore aesthetic. Your go-to choice should be paper lanterns to get the look.

Dressing up your gazebo with pretty paper lanterns is one of the easiest ways to create an entertaining space for a summer garden party.

Made of thin paper covering a wire framework, paper lanterns come in a range of designs, colors and sizes. Illuminated from the inside, they provide a soft glow that adds to the magic. It's best to use LED lights or battery powered bulbs with paper lanterns, as they don’t give off heat in the same way that incandescent bulbs do.

7. Try a gazebo with integrated glow

(Image credit: Cuckooland)

If you're looking for a stylish freestanding gazebo for your backyard hosting choose one with remote-controlled LED mood lighting strips around the perimeter of the roof. It's an automatic, hassle-free option that adds instant glow. The LED strips come in multi-colored or white options, and are easily adjusted with a remote control. 

You can also set the lights to automatically change color periodically (great for parties!) or keep them one color. The lights are dimmable according to your desired brightness requirements and can be changed to set the mood for the occasion. Gazebo lighting like this requires an electricity socket for the lights to be activated. 

8. Illuminate a gazebo with hanging lights

(Image credit: Sparkle Lighting)

Outdoor hanging lights including garden lanterns and pendant lights come in a huge range of styles, finishes and colors so can be used in gazebos to create just about any vibe you like. They are great clustered together to form a statement look.

Some styles plug into an electricity supply, but if you’re unable to connect your outdoor lamps to a power source, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Instead, why not pick one of the many battery-powered pendant lamps? Another option is solar garden lighting ideas that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn as no power source is required.

First and foremost, the gazebo structure you are suspending the lighting from needs to be able to take the weight of the light fitting itself, especially if you're planning a look like this one where you hang multiple lights together. Then all you need to do is determine the best design to accentuate your gazebo's charms.

9. Pick a subtle and sophisticated look

(Image credit: Johner Images/Alamy Stock Photo)

If you're looking to decorate your outdoor dining space for a special al fresco meal often a few strands of string lights is all that's needed to give things a lift. Perhaps a discreet touch of sparkle rather than full-on spotlights is more your thing anyway.

String lights are one of the best lighting ideas for a gazebo if you want to generate a romantic, ethereal atmosphere. These tiny LED lights are best added to the gazebo by wrapping them around the overhead beams. 

'Using string lights is one of the best ways to add a romantic and atmospheric feel to your night-time entertaining,' says interior designer Sanel Konyar. 'Choosing a solar light design makes them practical and economical, especially where electricity sources are limited.' 

(Image credit: Tetra Images LLC/Alamy Stock Photo)

If you really want to elevate your look above every other gazebo on the block make sure you choose lighting ideas that create a real sense of occasion. And if you're going to do it, do it well.

If you're planning to install a chandelier in your gazebo that's wired into an electrical supply make sure you buy one that is suitable. Choose a chandelier made of weather resistant material, and safety approved for outdoor use. 

Your outdoor chandelier should come with a sealed circuit to avoid moisture affecting the fittings. It should have a rubber coated switch and heavy duty cord. Once you've ticked off these you're ready to start hanging your chandelier.

Check the roof of your gazebo will carry the weight. Install a sturdy metal hook into the roof of your gazebo so the chandelier can be hung securely. Make sure each wire  is the same length so the chandelier hangs evenly. For chandeliers hung in the center of gazebos, the lowest point should be about seven feet from the ground to reduce the risk of taller guests bumping their heads!

How do you hang string lights on a gazebo?

'The most difficult part of hanging string lights is ensuring the wire is free of knots and that the lights are spaced evenly,' says Sam Richards of Gazeboshop. Here are his suggestions on the easiest way to hang a string of lights for successful gazebo lighting ideas:

  1. Measure the path the lights will follow along the structure of the gazebo and check you have enough.
  2. Choose a pattern that will mean your lights will be evenly spaced.
  3. Untangle your lights.
  4. Choose your hanging method of choice. You may use a staple gun to hang your lights, hooks or Blu-Tack. If you do choose to staple your lights, ensure the staple does not go through the wire!
  5. Start hanging from the furthest point and work your way in, this way you won't have spare lights left over at the end.
  6. Check your lights are secure and switch on!

How do you use lanterns to light a gazebo?

If you want to find out how to use lanterns to light a gazebo remember this simple fact: you can never have enough! Add them to your dining table, side tables and the floor to layer up a look and create a welcoming mood.

'Lanterns are a great addition to outdoor spaces and in particular for gazebos as they help to define the edges of the space, much as a wall light would do indoors,' says Juliette Thomas of Juliettes Interiors . 'Just because you’re not inside, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to accessorize your space. 

'Cozy it up with lots of lanterns and decorative pieces to create a zoned space that feels both intimate and welcoming. Scatter lanterns around to light up areas such as the entrance to the gazebo, which need to be seen, or group them together to create a focal point.'

Lifestyle journalist Sarah Wilson has been writing about gardens since 2015. She's written for Gardeningetc.com, Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, Easy Gardens and Modern Gardens magazines. Her first job on glossy magazines was at Elle, during which time a visit to the legendary La Colombe d'Or in St-Paul-de-Vence led to an interest in all things gardening. Later as lifestyle editor at Country Homes & Interiors magazine the real pull was the run of captivating country gardens that were featured. 

Gazebo Lights: Lighting Tips for Your Gazebo

With so many people staying at home avoiding COVID-19, beautiful backyard spaces are more essential than ever.  Outside spaces help mitigate the spread of viruses, including the flu and coronavirus.

Spending more time outside is also great for your mental health

A gazebo is a beautiful and valuable addition to almost any yard. Do you have a gazebo? Are you wondering how to light it up for enjoyable evenings in the backyard?

Check out these great ideas for gazebo lights. 

Wiring First

Depending on how fancy you want your gazebo lighting to be, you may need special wiring. You need a safe and effective source of electricity for your lights.

A licensed electrician knows if the city requires permits for any new wiring. If you’re tapping into the house’s electrical grid for a new circuit, hire a professional.

If your home already has outdoor outlets, you’re in luck.

Depending on the type of lights and wiring, you may need to run a few cords. Running the cords along the posts and roofline of the gazebo minimizes any danger of someone tripping over the wires.

Start with Interior Gazebo Lights

What’s your style? Do you like understated or do you go big? There are so many types of lights for outdoor living.

A Chandelier

A crystal chandelier makes a dramatic statement when it’s hanging from the midpoint inside your gazebo. This is the perfect solution for the romantic at heart. Crystals sparkle in the daytime sun and reflect the lightbulbs at night.

Complement a chandelier with sheer, gauzy curtains for a private backyard getaway.

A Fan Light 

If you live in a warm climate, consider installing a ceiling fan with lights. The fan circulates the air while keeping you comfortable.

There are so many types of fans you’ll have no problem getting one to suit your taste. Look for a fan with a reversible motor so you can run it in the summer and winter.

A fan is also great if you love hosting barbeques because it keeps the inside of the gazebo from getting smoky.

Pendant Lights

Not into the fairytale romance of a big chandelier? How about some modern pendants? Pendant lighting is sleek and sexy and comes in so many types and styles.

You can hang one large pendant or use several of varying lengths for a different look.

Fairy Lights

Fairy lights add charm and fun. They’re not as bold as a crystal chandelier, but they’re also much less expensive. They’re essentially Christmas lights and come in a variety of colors.

Wrap fairy lights from the inside beams and down the supporting posts for an elegant look.

Fairy-Light Curtain

Instead of wrapping your lights on the beams and posts, try hanging a bunch of strands straight down like curtains. Tie them back on one side for entry and exit.

This is a fun magical look the kids will love.

LED Strip Lights

Also known as tape lights, LED strip lights are like fairy lights but come encased in a tubing. Installation is easy with the adhesive peel-and-stick backing.

These lights come in a variety of colors as well. They’re safe both inside and out and they don’t emit any heat.

LED strip lights are a good energy-saving solution as well, since they use only a couple of watts of energy per foot.

Solar-Powered String Lights

If you want to save money, try some solar string lights. They offer a good solution if you don’t have electricity in the yard and you don’t want to install it.

Using LED bulbs in solar-powered lights maximizes the photocell capacity.

Around six hours of sunlight powers your lights for about 5-6 hours after sunset. That gets you well past midnight.

Decorative Lantern Lights

Whimsical decorative lanterns come in varying sizes, shapes, and colors. White lanterns with different colored bulbs set the mood any way you like.

Lamplight

Use lamps with pretty lampshades on coffee tables to add to your lighting arrangement. Find lamps that complement your hanging lights, if you’re using them.

Did you go with a big chandelier? Try lamps with glass bases and light-colored shades.

Are you using modern pendant lights? Pick a modern-style lamp.

Candlelight 

Use big candles inside glass hurricane candle shades. You’ll get many hours of light out of one large candle.

Scatter candles around the gazebo and on coffee tables and end tables. You can also set large candles inside glass lanterns on the ground.

Tiki Torches

Do you live near the beach? These are the perfect lights for your outdoor gazebo. Set a ring of torches around the outside of your gazebo.

If you’re using torches, place them several feet away from the gazebo so there’s no risk of fire. You also shouldn’t hang curtains on your gazebo if you’re using torches since that’s also a fire risk.

Lights Around the Gazebo Perimeter

There’s another option for lighting up your gazebo without hanging lights inside. You can light the perimeter in an artful way.

Done right, perimeter lighting provides plenty of light inside the gazebo, but it’s soft and romantic. Perimeter lighting includes pathway lighting to the structure.

A great pathway lighting option is small solar lights. Installation is easy since all you do is push the stake into the ground. The light sits on top gathering sun all day and lights up when it gets dark.

If you’re having trouble with insects at night, try different colored lights. These attract fewer bugs than bright white lights.

Fun Ways of Lighting the Gazebo

When it comes to gazebo lights, the options are many. Have fun and do what suits your taste.

Start by making sure you have electricity. No outdoor electricity? You won’t have as many options, but you can still go solar or use candles and tiki torches.

From chandeliers to whimsical paper lanterns, let your imagination run wild and have some fun. You’ll love spending time in your beautifully lit gazebo.

Need help with your lighting? Contact us now.

photo ideas, lighting options, schemes

Pastime in the summer cottage is associated not only with work, but also with family vacations, when a friendly company gathers in the gazebo. Fresh air and the aroma of herbal tea can keep everyone up until dark, when twilight only makes them want to fall asleep.

That is why many owners of private plots are trying to organize lighting in the gazebo. Next, consider the most common options and relevant lighting devices for them.

Connection between the type of gazebo and lighting system

Depending on the design features of the gazebo, the environmental factors affecting the lighting system also differ significantly. These factors should be taken into account when organizing the system and choosing specific lighting fixtures.

Open

Open arbor

outdoors, so all devices according to the dust resistance class must be selected along with street lighting. Dust protection is indicated by the first digit after IP marking in the device passport, and the highest is 6.

Regarding the moisture protection category, the luminaires must be selected depending on their position in relation to the canopy and open space. For example, located in the center of the gazebo, it does not need to be protected from direct moisture, and outdoor lighting is selected with the maximum degree of protection. Moisture protection is indicated by the second digit after the IP marking and varies from 0 to 8.

Closed

Closed gazebo

Such a gazebo is practically no different from a residential or utility room. Therefore, lighting is organized according to the same principle - the type of lamp does not have to be closed. The level of protection against dust and moisture IP can correspond to a change house. But more stringent requirements should be imposed on the light source regarding work at low temperatures.

Outdoor

Outdoor gazebo

Designed to illuminate either the gazebo itself from the outside, or the surrounding space, garden paths, roofs, etc. In this case, both functional lighting can be implemented by installing lanterns to ensure sufficient visibility in the garden area, as well as decorative lighting to decorate a specific part or space.

Illumination options

Depending on the purpose, all lighting in the gazebo is conditionally divided into general, local and decorative. To select fixtures for each type, use the principles below.

General

General lighting designed to create a comfortable atmosphere in a certain area. In this case, this is the entire space inside the gazebo. The result should be a soft, diffused light that is pleasing to the eye, in which you can easily perform common activities. The flow should be neither strong nor too weak.

General lighting

Where appropriate, general lighting fixtures are installed directly on the ceiling above the area to be illuminated. If this is one lamp, it is installed in the center of the ceiling of a round gazebo at such a level that neither interior items nor visitors block the directional rays.

Local

In the gazebo, it is used to illuminate a certain area or place, designed to increase visibility in comparison with the flow given out by the general illumination. Particularly relevant in places where you read or cook, local lighting should also be installed by lovers of needlework and homemade crafts.

Local lighting

At the place of installation, such lighting devices in the gazebo should be located directly above the desired area - a table, chair, etc. For its implementation, both a portable floor lamp and stationary sconces, spotlights and other options can be used.

Decorative

Decorative lighting

This type of lighting, both in the gazebo itself and outside it, can solve several problems: decorative lighting of a certain area;

  • Highlight desired areas or zones;
  • Organize decoration or design of plots or the entire gazebo.

    • Such lighting does not carry a functional load, therefore, the appropriate power must be selected. LED point or strip models are quite popular for these purposes, they are quite economical, so a group of light bulbs or a whole garland of them does not consume much electricity.

    But, it should be noted that the decorative design, located within the free reach of a person, must be installed in compliance with safety measures that prevent electric shock.

    The choice of fixtures for the gazebo

    The next parameter that you should decide on is the type of lighting equipment. Depending on the design features of lighting devices, the light they give out, and the light transmission parameters, space coverage, etc. will differ.

    Suspended

    Suspended lamp

    Structurally, such a lighting device in the gazebo is represented by classic hanging chandeliers.

    The luminaire consists of a diffuser and a suspended structure, it is fixed to the ceiling on a rigid or flexible base:

    • cord;
    • chain;
    • tube
    • frame.

    May consist of one or more units, depending on the area gazebos and light output of each device. If pendant lights are used for general room lighting should give a scattered flow, here models with an opaque plafond or diffusing glass. For directional lighting in the gazebo devices with reflectors that enhance the flow are used.

    The height of the pendant lights will determine the area of ​​effective lighting, so it is chosen on the basis of practical considerations directly on site.

    LED bulbs

    LED bulb

    LED bulbs are the most efficient way to light garden gazebos today. They give out the most powerful luminous flux, compared to incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, and consume a minimum of electricity.

    Thanks to this, the heating from lighting devices is minimal, the lamp itself heats up to no more than 50ºС, therefore the dimensions of the device are minimal. The most common option is spotlights, although an LED light bulb can also be screwed into a classic chandelier.

    To install compact spotlights, holes are cut in any structural or decorative element, the main thing is that its strength is sufficient for such installation. In addition to lamps for lighting gazebos, LED strips are also used, but their task is to provide decorative lighting.

    Concealed lighting

    A feature of this type of lighting is the removal of the light source itself from the field of view. The result is an interesting effect for decor that highlights the illuminated surface. For the surrounding space of the gazebo or the territory of the suburban area, the light does not bring any benefit. Since hidden lighting is of auxiliary importance, low-power lamps and equipment are used for it.

    Hidden lighting

    A striking example is the same ceiling lighting, which is installed behind a beam or a special cornice. They can be installed both along the perimeter of the ceiling, and in any other order.

    Wall sconces

    Lighting sconces

    Wall luminaires designed for vertical installation on a supporting structure. They can be used both for general lighting in the gazebo, and for local lighting.

    In large arbors for general lighting, wall sconces are installed on opposite walls to cover the entire space. The disadvantage of such lighting devices is the direction of lighting, since any objects or visitors can become an obstacle to light.

    Solar-powered lanterns

    Solar-powered lanterns

    Such devices are used as street lamps, since the accumulation of electrical energy comes from the sun and the galvanic cell must be located in open space.

    The scope of solar-powered street lamps is quite wide - they are used to illuminate the path, and to decorate the territory, and to illuminate the veranda. Their disadvantages include a low level of light output in cloudy weather.

    Examples of wiring diagrams

    According to the number of wires used, lighting circuits can be divided into two-wire and three-wire. The first option provides only neutral and phase wires, and the second one also has a protective ground. The three-wire system is the safest, as it removes the potential from grounded metal structures in case of insulation breakdown.

    In addition, the connection method differs in the presence or absence of protection for the lighting system. If the meter is equipped with a built-in machine, many users rely only on it and connect street chandeliers and other electrical equipment in the gazebo directly from the meter.

    Two-wire lighting circuit

    The figure above shows the simplest option for organizing power supply to equipment in the gazebo - according to a two-wire circuit without protection devices. Many ordinary people use it because of the lack of a PE conductor in the supply network and the unwillingness to organize their own ground loop.

    It requires a minimum investment, but the level of security of this scheme leaves much to be desired. In the event of a breakdown on the body of an electric kettle or fireplace, nearby people may be exposed to dangerous potential.

    Three-wire power supply with RCD

    This figure shows a three-wire power supply system for the gazebo. In both options, the principle of powering the lighting is considered together with the connection of sockets. This is the safest option when all consumers are separated from different machines, and an RCD is provided in the system to protect against leakage. Of course, you can upgrade this scheme - install one machine for the entire gazebo or combine lighting for one input.

    Another option to increase the safety of the lighting system is to turn on low-voltage spotlights.

    Spotlight power circuit

    In this case, the LED sources are powered by a step-down transformer, which supplies them with 12V. And this level of voltage is absolutely safe for a person, even with a breakdown on the body.

    Useful tips

    When you have already decided on the necessary lighting fixtures in the gazebo, you can proceed directly to the installation work.

    Your case will have its own specifics, but we will give general tips to help you make the backlight better:

    • There is a high risk of fire in wooden gazebos, so the fixtures must be installed on a non-combustible base, and all wiring should be mounted in a metal corrugation or box.
    Lighting in a wooden gazebo

    The same concerns wooden structures or wooden chandeliers in gazebos from other materials.

    • For arbors made of concrete or metal, it is quite acceptable to lay the wiring in a plastic box or corrugation.
    • Switch for switching light bulbs is better to install at the entrance to the gazebo. Also pay attention to the partitioning of lighting devices by zones or types, for each of them it is advisable to install its own switch or one multi-key switch.
    • When installing lighting fixtures, check where the luminous flux is directed - it makes no sense to illuminate the outdoor space with a lamp above the table or by the fireplace.
    • The ceiling light can be made movable to adjust its height. So they can provide both general and local illumination.
    • For the production of multi-colored illumination, you can install an RGB diode strip.
    • Be sure to purchase original lamps, as cheap Chinese models often break down and cause a short circuit, followed by a fire.

    More photo ideas

    Here are the most interesting ideas for installing lighting equipment in the gazebo.

    • Do-it-yourself lamps for the gazebo

      • Even during the construction of the gazebo, all communications must be connected to it, thanks to which we can easily solve the issue of installing lighting in the building. If for some reason it is impossible to supply electricity, then alternative energy sources can be used. The type of fixtures depends on the frequency of use of the gazebo, its size and design. In addition, you can make an original chandelier with your own hands using improvised means.

      Observe safety measures

      For electrical appliances powered by the mains, wiring must be done by making the correct connection. The cable section is selected depending on the power that will be used. For fire safety purposes, the cable must be insulated with a corrugated pipe. If there are several lamps inside the gazebo, then the switches can be separate or one common. In order to prevent overloading the network, you need to install an automatic device that turns off the electricity supply in case of excessive power.

      In addition, the type of construction has a great influence, for example, in an open gazebo you need to use waterproof devices. You can see the characteristics of the fixtures in their instructions or technical data sheet, which is provided by the manufacturer. Lighting should not be bright, as this will cause discomfort, may temporarily blind a person. In the best case, you need to buy fixtures with the ability to adjust the brightness of the glow.

      Lighting power supply

      As a light source, conventional chandeliers and lamps powered by electricity or alternative energy sources can be used. Solar panels are a modern solution that reduces the cost of electrical energy, in addition, their installation can be carried out by a person who does not have special skills. The principle of operation of solar panels is that during a sunny day, the battery accumulates energy, after which it releases it in the form of light. The service life is several decades.

      Important! This luminaire is enough to work up to 12 hours even on a cloudy day, however, the equipment cannot be used in regions with low temperatures, as the batteries do not cope well with them.

      Varieties of mains-powered lamps:

      • Incandescent lamp - consumes a lot of electricity, you can reduce consumption by installing motion sensors.
      • LED - the most profitable option. The consumption of electricity here is small, while the period of operation of the light source is 10 years. LEDs are not afraid of moisture, temperature changes and mechanical stress.
      • Halogen - environmentally friendly, low power consumption.
      • Fluorescent lamps - used as a ceiling chandelier.

      Arbor lighting methods

      Garden building lighting is divided into three groups:

      • General.
      • Local.
      • Decorative.

      The most popular type of gazebo lighting is general. In this case, the main goal is to provide the interior space with sufficient light with the help of lamps installed at the corners of the gazebo. The number of fixtures is affected by the type of structure (open or closed), its shape, size and type of roof. There is no optimal solution, so the lamps are selected differently in each case, but there should be a chandelier in the center of the gazebo. For small gazebos, it is enough to install sconces, the installation of which is carried out on the supports of the structure. The power of the lamps should not be strong so that they do not blind the people sitting inside.

      Local lighting - must provide the necessary amount of light to a certain area of ​​the building, for example, to illuminate a table or a corner with a barbecue. Ceiling lighting is also a type of local lighting. Sconces with the ability to adjust their position are used as light sources.

      Decorative lighting, the main purpose of which is to create an attractive gazebo interior and a special atmosphere. There are no limits in fantasy, thanks to which you can make lamps with your own hands, install neon lights, etc. An equally attractive and economical option is to use a New Year's garland.

      The choice of lighting fixtures depending on the design of the arbor

      The type of arbor also affects the choice of lighting fixtures, for example, in an open wooden structure, the central chandelier looks best, complemented by shades installed along the perimeter of the ceiling. You can hide the shades by hiding them behind a lampshade or cornice. It is worth recalling that the light from the open gazebo should be moderate so that the design does not look like a bright spot on the site, attracting the attention of others.

      As an additional light source, you can use street lamps with a protective housing. The IP rating must be higher than 55, which symbolizes reliable protection against moisture and dust. In a closed gazebo, you can use any lamps that match the style of the interior. The class of protection against moisture and dust should be above 45, the power of the lamps should be about 75 watts. Above the furniture, you can install LED spotlights or frosted shades.

      Do-it-yourself lamps for gazebos

      When assembling the structure, it is important to take into account fire safety requirements, because the lamp must be not only original and attractive, but also reliable. The basis for the lamp can be: