As we move into 2025, landscape lighting continues to evolve, blending aesthetics, functionality, and technology in exciting new ways. Whether you're a homeowner looking to boost your curb appeal or a business owner aiming to enhance the nighttime presence of your commercial property, keeping up with the latest lighting trends is essential.
In this blog, we explore the top trends in residential and commercial landscape lighting for 2025 to help you make informed and stylish decisions for your outdoor spaces.
1. Smart Lighting Systems Take Center Stage
One of the most significant trends in both residential and commercial landscape lighting is the rise of smart lighting systems. These systems allow users to control their lights through mobile apps, voice commands, or even automation based on schedules or motion detection.
Why it's trending:
Energy efficiency
Convenience and control
Enhanced security
Smart landscape lighting lets you customize brightness, color temperature, and timing to suit various needs—from highlighting a garden feature at home to illuminating walkways and signage in a commercial setting.
2. Sustainable and Solar-Powered Lighting
Eco-conscious lighting is no longer just a trend—it's a movement. Solar-powered lights are making significant strides in design and performance, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial properties.
Why it's trending:
Reduces electricity bills
Minimal environmental impact
Easy to install and maintain
Today's solar lights are far more powerful and durable than older versions, offering ample illumination even during cloudy weather. Expect to see more landscape lighting setups powered entirely by renewable energy sources in 2025.
3. Architectural and Accent Lighting
Using light to emphasize architectural features and landscaping elements is growing in popularity. In residential settings, this might mean illuminating stone pathways, fountains, or garden walls. Commercial properties may use accent lighting to highlight signage, building facades, or sculptures.
Why it's trending:
Enhances curb appeal
Increases property value
Creates visual interest
Strategically placed accent lights can transform the ambiance of any outdoor space, adding drama and elegance that makes a lasting impression.
4. Layered Lighting Designs
Layered lighting—using multiple types of light sources at varying heights and intensities—is becoming a staple in modern landscape design. This approach is widely adopted in both residential and commercial projects to create depth and a more inviting environment.
Common layers include:
Ambient lighting (overall illumination)
Task lighting (pathways, entrances)
Accent lighting (features, art)
Layered lighting enhances both the aesthetics and functionality of outdoor areas, allowing for tailored experiences and improved safety.
5. Warm and Natural Light Tones
Cold, blue-toned lights are being replaced by warm, natural hues that mimic the glow of sunset. This trend is especially prevalent in residential landscape lighting, but it also finds favor in commercial spaces that aim for a welcoming and comfortable ambiance.
Why it's trending:
More visually appealing
Reduces light pollution
Enhances natural landscape colors
Incorporating warm tones fosters a sense of tranquility and elegance, perfect for patios, gardens, and entrance areas.
6. Integrated Lighting Fixtures
Instead of retrofitting existing fixtures, many designers now incorporate lighting into the architecture and landscaping from the outset. This trend is prominent in new residential builds and commercial properties undergoing renovations.
Benefits of integrated lighting:
Seamless design
Lower maintenance
Improved lighting coverage
Examples include lights built into stone walls, steps, pergolas, and even furniture. This clean, minimalist approach ensures that the lighting enhances the environment rather than overpowering it.
7. Motion-Activated and Sensor Lighting
Sensor-based lighting adds a layer of efficiency and security. In residential areas, motion-activated lights are commonly used for driveways and backyards. Commercial landscapes use sensor lighting to illuminate parking lots, pathways, and entryways only when movement is detected.
Why it's trending:
Saves energy
Deters trespassers
Provides convenience
Pairing sensors with smart systems allows for even more customization and real-time control, making them a staple in modern landscape lighting plans.
8. Color-Changing LED Lights
Color-changing LED lights are making waves in landscape lighting design. While more popular in residential projects for garden parties and mood-setting, they are also being used in commercial applications for branding and holiday displays.
Features:
Programmable color sequences
Remote and app control
Durable and energy-efficient
This trend allows for a highly personalized experience, enabling property owners to switch themes and moods effortlessly.
9. Minimalist and Modern Fixtures
The design world is moving towards clean lines and unobtrusive fixtures. Minimalist lighting options are now widely available, offering sleek, durable designs that blend seamlessly into both traditional and contemporary landscapes.
Why it's trending:
Fits modern architecture
Easy to maintain
Focuses attention on landscaping, not fixtures
These fixtures often feature matte finishes, geometric shapes, and subtle placement to deliver elegance without distraction.
10. Increased Focus on Safety and Compliance
In commercial settings, there's a growing emphasis on compliance with local lighting regulations, including brightness levels and placement to avoid glare. In residential areas, the focus is on safe navigation of outdoor spaces.
Applications include:
Illuminated steps and ramps
Well-lit driveways
Emergency exit lighting for businesses
Safety doesn’t mean sacrificing style—designers are now incorporating safety lighting in ways that enhance the overall aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
The landscape lighting trends for 2025 reflect a growing emphasis on smart technology, energy efficiency, and aesthetically pleasing design. Whether you're updating a backyard garden or illuminating a commercial facade, these trends offer innovative solutions that marry beauty and functionality.
By staying ahead of the curve, you not only boost your property's visual appeal but also increase its safety, usability, and value. So whether you're seeking the best in residential landscape lighting or exploring the future of commercial landscape lighting, 2025 is poised to deliver innovation like never before.
Ready to light the way forward? Explore these trends and transform your outdoor spaces into well-lit works of art.