Happy spring, everyone! As the days grow longer and the sun graces us with its warmth, it’s a wonderful time to shift our focus to the exterior of our homes. Here at #thecottagebungalow, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the perfect weather to dive into some much-needed outdoor projects. The list, as many homeowners know, can be quite extensive. So, to build momentum, I decided to tackle a project that has been on the back burner for far too long: installing exterior lights on the garage. What began as a simple task nearly two years ago turned into a foundational step in enhancing our home’s curb appeal and safety, especially with the invaluable partnership of Lamps Plus.
Addressing a Lingering Safety Concern: The Garage Rewiring Story
The journey to new garage lights actually began back in 2016, when we had our beloved bungalow repainted. During that period, we also made the critical decision to completely rewire our garage. This wasn’t just a matter of convenience or an upgrade; it was a non-negotiable safety imperative. Prior to our ownership, there was a dangerously “sketchy” and entirely illegal electrical setup. Someone, at some point, had haphazardly jerry-rigged wires to siphon power from the main house into the garage. This precarious arrangement was not only a serious fire hazard but also a glaring red flag on our inspection paperwork when we were in the process of purchasing the house. It became clear that this issue absolutely had to be remedied before we could truly feel safe and settled in our new home.
rectifying this hazardous situation, we enlisted professional electricians to install new, updated electrical wiring in the garage – the correct and legal way. This comprehensive upgrade included laying the groundwork for new exterior garage lights. However, despite the wiring being meticulously installed and ready, the actual light fixtures themselves remained unchosen and unmounted. For almost two years, the electrical boxes on the garage wall stood empty, a visible reminder of an unfinished project. It was, as I often joked, a small travesty of homeownership, and frankly, still not entirely legal to have exposed wiring points without proper fixtures. Though I had every intention of finding and installing them, the task consistently fell to the bottom of an ever-growing priority list. That is, until a fantastic opportunity arose.
The Perfect Partnership: Bringing Light to #thecottagebungalow with Lamps Plus
When I received an offer to partner with Lamps Plus, I immediately knew it was the perfect catalyst to finally complete this long-overdue project. I’ve been a genuine admirer of Lamps Plus for a considerable time, often browsing their extensive collections for inspiration for various indoor and outdoor lighting needs. Their reputation for quality, diverse selection, and excellent customer service precedes them, so I was already very familiar with the brand and confident they would offer a plethora of exceptional options to choose from. This partnership wasn’t just about getting new lights; it was about transforming a neglected corner of our home into a safe, well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing space.
Embarking on the selection process for exterior lighting can be both exciting and overwhelming, given the sheer volume of choices available. To avoid getting lost down the proverbial rabbit hole of endless options, I recognized the importance of establishing clear criteria. Before even browsing the Lamps Plus website, I sat down to consider the specific constraints and desired aesthetics for our garage lights. These considerations were crucial in narrowing down the field and ensuring the chosen fixtures would be both functional and visually harmonious with our existing home style.
Key Considerations for Selecting Exterior Garage Lights
Choosing the right exterior light fixtures requires more than just picking something that looks good in a picture. For our #thecottagebungalow, several practical and aesthetic factors played a significant role in guiding my decision-making process. These considerations helped me filter through the vast selection available, ensuring the final choice was perfectly suited for our specific needs and the architectural style of our home.
1. Size and Placement Constraints
The first and arguably most critical consideration was size. Our garage has certain structural and environmental limitations that dictate the maximum dimensions for any fixture we choose. Specifically, the proximity of our fence against the garage wall creates a definite spatial restriction. This meant that overly large or protruding fixtures would simply not fit or would create an awkward, cramped appearance. Additionally, the existing placement of the gutters and the fixed height of the electrical wiring further limited our options. I had to meticulously measure the available space, considering both width and depth, to ensure that any potential fixture would comfortably integrate without obstruction. It’s not just about the fixture’s dimensions, but also how it visually scales with the wall and surrounding elements. Too small, and it looks insignificant; too large, and it overwhelms the space.
2. Harmonizing Style and Aesthetics
Beyond mere practicality, style was paramount. We already have distinct exterior fixtures at the front door and the garage entry door on the other side of the fence. The goal for these new garage lights was to complement these existing elements rather than compete with them. Our home has a charming cottage bungalow aesthetic, and the new lights needed to uphold that character. The challenge was finding a style that would blend seamlessly, creating a cohesive exterior design without trying to replicate the existing, more ornate fixtures. We simply didn’t have the room or the visual desire to accommodate that exact style in this particular spot.
(Please disregard the dust, a true testament to real-life home maintenance!)
I wasn’t looking for these particular lights to be “showstoppers.” Instead, I envisioned them as functional elements that would quietly fade into the background, providing essential illumination without drawing excessive attention. The intention was for them to enhance the overall ambiance and security of the area, rather than becoming the focal point. This subtle approach aligns perfectly with the understated charm of our cottage bungalow, where every element contributes to a harmonious whole without shouting for attention. With these specific criteria firmly in mind, I confidently navigated the Lamps Plus website, seeking fixtures that would perfectly embody this blend of practicality and subtle elegance.
My Top 3 Contenders from Lamps Plus
After carefully filtering through numerous options on the Lamps Plus website, keeping my size constraints and desired aesthetic firmly in mind, I narrowed down my choices to three exceptional candidates. Each of these fixtures offered a unique blend of style and functionality that I felt could beautifully integrate with #thecottagebungalow’s exterior.
1. The Arrington Mystic Black Outdoor Wall Light
Arrington Light
This particular light fixture immediately caught my eye for its sleek, modern simplicity and elegant shape. The Arrington’s clean lines and mystic black finish offer a contemporary touch that would beautifully complement the overall style of our house without overpowering its existing charm. Its understated design means it provides excellent illumination while subtly enhancing the architectural features of the garage. It projects a sophisticated yet welcoming glow, perfect for both visibility and creating a pleasant evening atmosphere. The size also seemed to fit perfectly within our restrictive space, making it a strong contender right from the start. Its durable construction also promises longevity, a key factor for any exterior fixture exposed to the elements.
2. The Warburton Black LED Outdoor Wall Light
Warburton Light
The Warburton light resonated with me because of its quintessential “cottage” feel. Its classic design and inviting silhouette felt perfectly at home with the aesthetic of #thecottagebungalow. Again, its size and shape were ideal for the designated space, offering a traditional appeal that wouldn’t clash with our existing fixtures but would rather enhance the overall cozy and welcoming vibe. This fixture is designed to be both functional and charming, providing ample light while contributing to the character of the home. The integrated LED technology is also a significant bonus, promising energy efficiency and a long lifespan, reducing maintenance and electricity costs over time. Its timeless appeal ensures it won’t go out of style, making it a wise long-term investment for our exterior. It evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, which is exactly what I aim for in our outdoor spaces.
3. The Fallbrook Black Dusk-to-Dawn Motion Sensor Outdoor Light
Fallbrook Light
The Fallbrook light represents a classic barn-style fixture, a look that always adds a touch of rustic sophistication. Its proportions were just right for our space, striking that delicate balance between making a statement and blending in. What truly set this option apart, however, was its integrated dusk-to-dawn sensor and motion detection capabilities. This feature offers unparalleled convenience and enhances home security significantly. The light automatically turns on at dusk and off at dawn, saving energy and ensuring our garage area is always illuminated when needed. The added motion sensor provides an extra layer of security, deterring unwanted visitors and illuminating the path whenever movement is detected. This blend of classic aesthetics with modern technology made the Fallbrook an incredibly attractive and practical choice for our cottage bungalow.
The Decision is Made: Building Momentum for Future Projects
While there were countless other fantastic options on Lamps Plus, these three truly stood out as the best fit for our garage lighting needs, perfectly aligning with our aesthetic preferences and practical constraints. After much deliberation, weighing the pros and cons of each, I finally made my choice. I’ve already placed the order, and I’m eagerly anticipating their arrival! I simply cannot wait to unveil which fixture I chose and share the transformation with all of you. Make sure to pop over to my Instagram feed soon, as I’ll be sharing the big reveal and installation progress there!
There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from finally completing a project you’ve been putting off, no matter how small it might seem. It creates a palpable sense of accomplishment and often sets a wonderful momentum for tackling those bigger, more ambitious dreams. Finishing these garage lights isn’t just about illumination; it’s about reclaiming a small piece of our home and energizing ourselves for what’s next. With this exterior light project nearing completion, our sights are already set on the next big undertaking: clearing out and designing the space for our potager garden. This will be an exciting endeavor, bringing fresh produce and even more charm to #thecottagebungalow.
Until next time, friends, may your homes be filled with light and your projects with joy!
*This post is proudly in partnership with Lamps Plus. While I received product for this project, I want to assure my readers that I have not been asked or compensated to create this specific post beyond the product. All thoughts, opinions, and selections expressed here are genuinely my own and reflect my honest experience and preferences.
Sources & Style Inspiration
Mailbox: Wayfair
Planter: West Elm
Front Door Sconce: Rejuvenation
Front Door Color: Orange Tiger Lily by Glidden
Exterior House Color: Evening Hush by Behr (color matched to Kelly Moore Paint)