What Is the Best Color Temperature for Landscape Lighting?

When designing a landscape lighting scheme, the goal is to create layered lighting that adds functionality and depth to outdoor spaces. Often forgotten in the process is the important role color temperatures play in setting the right ambiance and mood. In the past, that was partly due to the difficulty of having to choose different bulbs for each desired color temperature. 

But thanks to Coastal Source's new Ketra-enabled bullet fixture, you can adjust the color temperature without switching bulbs. This fixture offers full-spectrum tunable LED bulbs to easily meet the needs of your Westchester County, CT, home.

SEE ALSO: Get Creative with Coastal Source and Outdoor Lighting Design 

What Is Color Temperature?

Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), describes the hue of a light source. Lower Kelvin values (2700K-3000K) emit a warm, yellowish light, while higher values (4000K-6500K) produce a cooler, bluish light. Selecting the right color temperature is important because it influences the mood and appearance of your outdoor spaces. By choosing the appropriate color temperature, you can enhance your outdoor environment's overall aesthetic and usability.

What Are the Best Color Temperatures for Outdoor Lighting? 

Warm White

This should be the go-to color temperature for most outdoor lighting. It creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere and enhances natural features like wood and stone. Fixtures that provide general ambient lighting for patios, decks, and pathways should be set to this color temperature (between 2700 and 3000 Kelvin). 

Natural White

This hue is a little brighter and crisper than warm white ambient lighting and is great for spotlighting specific features. Use this color temperature for lights around your garden to bring attention to your vegetables or flowers. This neutral white is also good in outdoor dining areas, providing vital task lighting when grilling or eating with the family. 

Cool White 

This is the brightest and most vibrant color temperature we recommend. It is useful in small amounts but should be used sparingly, as it can be harsh if used excessively. With Ketra, it's easy to switch fixtures to this hue when you want added concentration and then switch them back to a warmer glow when you're done. This light temperature is also great for security lighting, as it provides the best illumination. 

Customize Lighting to Your Needs

No two homes or families are the same. So, though we've provided some general tips, the key is understanding how color temperature works. When choosing certain hues, consider things like function, ambiance, architecture, and landscaping. 

By linking your landscape lighting to a Lutron system, you'll be able to save your favorite settings and pull them back up when needed based on the time of day or activity. You can even choose festive scenes—for example, green and red hues for Christmas time. 

If you need help with your landscape lighting design, our experts are ready to assist in creating a beautifully illuminated and functional outdoor space. Call or fill out our contact form to learn more about our landscape lighting solutions.