Traditional Exterior Light Fixtures

Lantern

• One of the most traditional types of outdoor light fixtures is the lantern. The fixtures are designed to resemble old-fashioned lanterns that hold candles, and they come in a variety of metals, including brass, cast-iron and copper. They are also available in a wide range of styles, so you can usually find a design that matches your home's architecture. When selecting a lantern fixture for your home's exterior, you may opt for a wall-mounted model that you can place beside your front door. However, you can also go with a hanging lantern and suspend it over your porch or entryway landing. You might also have a lantern fixture mounted on top of pillars at the entrance to your driveway or front gate for a formal look.

Lampposts

• Lampposts are another common type of outdoor light fixture. As the name implies, they are freestanding posts that resemble old-fashioned streetlights. Like lanterns, they are available in a variety of metals and styles, so you should find an option that matches the rest of your landscape. You can even find lampposts with a modern, minimalist design that create a bold statement for the front of your home.

Spot Lights

• When choosing security lighting, spotlights are often the go-to fixture. They produce an intense amount of light but only cover a small, focused area. The fixtures are typically round and housed inside a metal tube. You can place them on the ground and aim them at specific areas of your house, so intruders may be spotted if they attempt to break into your home. However, you can also use spotlights to highlight architectural and landscape elements or seasonal decorations during the holidays.

Pathlights

• Pathlights are another traditional outdoor lighting fixture. They are used to illuminate paths and walkways for safety purposes. However, they come in many styles, so they can be highly decorative as well. Pathlights are freestanding units that are low to the ground and are usually made of glass or metal. They may be set on the ends of posts or installed at ground level. Pathlights produce a small, localized light, so you must place them strategically along a walkway to ensure that the entire surface is illuminated.