The balcony of your home is undoubtedly a very precious space. Be it a short break for a breath of fresh air on a busy day or long idle hours of relaxation, it is a preferred spot for various activities and situations. We all put in a lot of thought and effort into making our balcony cosy and comfortable whose good vibes would make our moments of relaxation even more wholesome. While balconies receive enough natural light during the daytime, homeowners who like spending time in their balconies after dark often prefer some lighting. Moreover, adding lighting fixtures to your balcony is a unique and convenient way to elevate the aesthetics while also ensuring functionality. In this article, we have curated some unique and unconventional balcony lighting ideas for you to choose from.
See also: Balcony wall design ideas for a cosy outdoor space
String lights
String lights woven through the balcony railing or draped across the space is a crisscross pattern that adds a delicate and warm touch to the space. For a better visual effect, go for warm white lights since they are perfect for a cosy, intimate atmosphere with a dreamy vibe.
Mason jar lanterns
Create unique DIY lanterns using mason jars that illuminate the space with surreal orbs of light. Instead of using electric fixtures, you can even use candles as the lighting source for a more rustic appeal. The jars can be painted in pastel colours for a whimsical feel or left clear if you prefer the simple and elegant look.
Source: Pinterest @shopamazonde
Fairy lights in bottles
Another creative way to light up your balcony is to collect glass bottles of various shapes and colours and stuff them with fairy lights. Arrange them as desired and create an enchanting space using these dreamy-looking fixtures.
Paper lanterns
For a playful and festive vibe you can hang paper lanterns of different sizes and colours across your balcony. You can make your own lanterns with the help of DIY tutorials or choose from the wide range of available options, ranging from intricate cut-out patterns to delicate and minimal ones.
Source: Pinterest @jackiegiardina
Solar-powered garden lights
Install solar-powered lights in your balcony by placing them in planters or flower beds. They automatically charge during daylight hours and emit a soft, natural glow in the evening, ideal for contemporary setups.
LED rail lighting
For a modern and sleek look, install discrete LED strips along the railing of your balcony. This is a convenient way to light up your balcony without taking up too much space. You can even go for customisable colours to suit varying moods and occasions.
Source: Pinterest @nextluxury
Candle chandeliers
Add a touch of sophistication to the balcony with small chandelier lighting with real candles or fixtures resembling them. This is a practical option since it combines the functionality of lighting with a dreamy and romantic aesthetic.
Rope lights
Go for the simplicity of subtle and indirect illumination by outlining the edges of the balcony with rope lights. This style brings forth a gentle glow that specifically enhances the balcony’s outline. If you are not looking for ambient lighting, this is the one for you.
Source: Pinterest @handymansdaught
Hanging tea light holders
Create a surreal effect in your balcony by suspending glass tea light holders from the ceiling at varying heights. The gentle illumination of flickering candles results in a romantic and intimate setting, perfect for a date night at home.
Globe string lights
If you are looking for some mellow ambient lighting, globe string lights might be the one for you. They can distribute a soft and uniform glow across the space and create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
Lantern string lights
For a unique blend of classic and festive lighting, you can hand lantern-style string lights. These are just the right amount of fancy for any setup and come in various designs and colours, thereby adding a playful touch to the space.
Umbrella lights
Attaching LED lights to the underside of your balcony umbrella is a practical and stylish solution to your balcony lighting needs. This creates a cosy, directional lighting specifically for the seating area.Â
Source: Pinterest @tcdaztec
Fire pit table
Go for a multipurpose lighting source that brings both warmth and illumination. Invest in a small fire pit table whose flames can provide a cosy feel and act as a unique focal point for the balcony.
Tin can lanterns
Punch patterns into tin cans and place candles or lighting fixtures inside to create DIY lanterns. For an enhanced look of personalisation, you can even paint the cans in vibrant colours.
Neon signs
The latest trend in town when it comes to lighting ideas, custom neon signs or words are perfect for a pop of colour and personality for your space. From motivational quotes to fun statements, neon signs are sure to make a bold statement and are not going out of vogue anytime soon.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Cafe lightsÂ
For a plush ambiance, drape cafe likes specifically above the seating area to imitate the vibe of an outdoor cafe. The warm yellow glow of these lights suit the idyllic and relaxed vibe of the balcony.
Step lights
Installing small LED lights on the steps or floor of the balcony ensures both safety and aesthetics. They can guide the way up or down the steps and add a contemporary look to the space.
Rustic wall sconces
Add some character to your balcony walls by mounting wall sconces. If you wish for a more rustic appeal, you can go for candles instead of the regular LED fixtures. This option is the perfect blend of practical lighting and decorative elements.
Source: Pinterest @aliexpress
Floating candles
Placing floating candles in a decorative bowl or container with water is a simple way to light up your balcony space without any extensive additions. The candles float gently on the water and create a serene and romantic vibe.Â
Upcycled chandelier
Use upcycled materials like old bottles, jars or driftwood to create a unique and unconventional chandelier for your balcony. By this DIY means, you can add a touch of eco-friendly creativity and a sense of personality to your balcony.
Bamboo torch lights
For a tropical and exotic vibe, line your balcony railing with bamboo torch lights. These have a flickering flame that results in a warm and island-inspired atmosphere.
DIY wine bottle lights
For a DIY and eco-friendly lighting solution, you can cut wine bottles and insert string lights. The colour and texture of the wine bottle dims the glow of the string lights for a soft and charming effect.
Under-table lighting
Placing LED lights under the table, if you have a seating arrangement, or under furniture results in a subtle and stylish glow. It is an ideal option if you wish for a visually interesting and dynamic effect.
Rattan ball string lightsÂ
Go for string lights featuring rattan ball covers for a bohemian and eclectic vibe. Alongside, illuminating the space, the rattan balls can add a unique texture and visual interest to the light display.
Source: Pinterest @SHEINofficial
Star projector lights
Invest in a star project and create a celestial space in your balcony by projecting stars and patterns onto your balcony. This is sure to provide a mesmerising and magical outdoor experience reminiscent of a clear night sky.
Glow in the dark paint
Add an unexpected and whimsical touch to your balcony by painting the planters or balcony furniture using glow in the dark paint. These paints are characterised by their ability to emit a soft glow after exposure to light.
Hanging candle holders
Create an enchanting glow by suspending candle holders made of glass or metal from the balcony ceiling. The choice of material for your candle holder can create a rustic or sophisticated ambiance as required.
Laser lightsÂ
Laser lights can enhance your outdoor experience into a more dynamic and colourful one. They emit light to form moving patterns and hues for an energetic atmosphere.
Floating solar lanterns
For an eco-friendly and tranquil lighting option, you can go for floating solar lanterns in bowls of water. They gently move on the surface of the water to add a serene touch to the space.
Source: Pinterest @glorianbliss
Twinkle light canopy
Hang an abundance of twinkle lights above the entire balcony to achieve a canopy effect. This can transform the space into a dreamy and enchanting outdoor retreat.
Source: Pinterest @lowes
FAQs
Are outdoor lights safe for balconies?
Outdoor lights are specifically designed to be used in balconies and have an IP rating suitable for outdoor conditions.
Are fairy lights suitable for a small balcony?
Fairy lights are perfect for small balconies since they are versatile, flexible and can be used in a variety of ways.
How to light my balcony if there are no electrical outlets?
Solar-powered or battery-operated lights are suitable if your balcony does not have electrical outlets.
What kind of lighting goes best with a cosy balcony setting?
String lights or globe lights emit a warm and soft glow ideal for a comfortable and inviting space.
Can I use candles on my balcony for lighting?
Candles are suitable to be used as balcony lights as long as safety is prioritised. Flameless or LED candles should be preferred.
How can I make my balcony lighting more efficient?
LED lights are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. You can even go for solar-powered lights.
What are some creative DIY balcony lighting ideas?
Mason jar lanterns, wine bottle lights or upcycled chandeliers are some creative DIY ways to light up your balcony.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
