Inspiration Hardscape lighting Deck lighting Recessed lighting

Outdoor Step Lighting Ideas For Safety and Style

in-lite Marketing Team

A photo of stairs leading up to a deck with glass railings and a hot tub. The step risers are illuminated with in-lite fixtures.

When it comes to outdoor lighting, step lights are an important addition that add both safety and style. A landscape design that looks incredible during the day can be hard to see and difficult to navigate in the evening. Adding outdoor lighting will provide illumination and a touch of elegance to any property.

In this article we review the best outdoor step lighting ideas that you can use in your next project.

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Illuminate Stairs from Above

One of the most common ways to install outdoor step lights is to mount them on the side wall above each step. This will allow for even lighting across the stairs, and will provide additional visibility at night. Wall-mounted fixtures come in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can easily find one to suit your client’s style.

Here are some ways to install the MINI SCOPE and WEDGE Series as stair lights:

MINI SCOPE

On the left if is a photo of the in-lite MINI SCOPE installed in a wooden beam. On the right is a product photo of the MINI SCOPE on a grey background.

Create beautifully illuminated stairs in your backyard with in-lite MINI SCOPE fixtures. These low-voltage lights produce a subtle, downward light close to the ground, which functions as a safety feature. The lights have a modern and sleek design that will easily complement any outdoor space. Here is a video for a mounted MINI-SCOPE application, where we review the tools needed to install the fixtures, as well as some cable management tips:

MINI WEDGE 12V

A photo of the in-lite MINI WEDGE 12V product beside a photo of this product in use, illuminating steps beside a garden at night. On the right is a photo of the in-lite MINI WEDGE 12V product with a grey background.

The MINI WEDGE 12V is an excellent choice for illuminating stairways, its small size and slim profile make it unobtrusive while still providing plenty of light. The MINI WEDGE 12V produces an even light distribution throughout staircases and can be used in combination with other fixtures if you need to add more light.

WEDGE 12V

A photo of the in-lite WEDGE 12V product beside a photo of this product in use, illuminating steps beside a garden at night. On the right is a photo of the in-lite WEDGE 12V product with a grey background.

For larger outdoor spaces that feature pathways, the full-size WEDGE 12V is an ideal choice. This fixture adds warmth and radiates light downwards to create a soft, ambient effect that’s perfect for a landscape design where a walkway meets a staircase. On pathways, installation of the WEDGE 12V is recommended every 2 to 2.5 meters, at a height of 1.4 to 1.6 meters.

Create a Welcoming Effect With Under-Cap Lighting

EVO HYDE 180C

On the left is a photo of the in-lite EVO HYDE 180C installed underneath concrete steps. On the right is a photo of the in-lite EVO HYDE 180C product with a grey background.

Another option is to add lighting under the stair or along the edges of the stair for a beautiful outdoor step lighting display. Our EVO HYDE 180C is a wide, but subtle, light that is ideal for this type of installation. The EVO HYDE is a magical addition to stairs or steps that lead guests to decks or patios. The photo featured below is a great example of how to incorporate the EVO HYDE with a single step.

A photo of the in-lite EVO HYDE product installed under a step leading to a patio with a conversation set.

EVO FLEX

On the left is a photo of the in-lite EVO FLEX installed underneath brick steps. On the right is a photo of the in-lite EVO FLEX product with a grey background.

EVO FLEX is the ultimate lighting solution for those seeking versatility and quality. It features a sleek and flexible design, and can be shaped and trimmed to fit any space. It’s a LED light strip available in three sizes (3, 6, or 9 feet), and will add a touch of artistry while illuminating steps from underneath.

Install Garden Lamps to Brighten Steps

ACE HIGH

On the left is a photo of the in-lite ACE HIGH in Black installed in a garden next to steps. On the right is a photo of the in-lite ACE HIGH product with a grey background.

Modern forms of garden lighting, such as our ACE HIGH DARK bollard is a wonderful addition to steps. Its sleek design produces a downward dispersed light on two sides, so you can have beautiful greenery illuminated while also having steps safely brightened.

ACE

On the left is a photo of the in-lite ACE in Black installed in a garden next to a front pathway with steps. On the right is a photo of the in-lite FUSION 22 RVS product with a grey background.

With its adjustable light source and soft glow, the ACE bollard can effortlessly guide the way along a pathway or highlight key features in your landscape. The tilt feature also adds an extra level of versatility, allowing you to direct light exactly where it's needed most.

DISC Bollard

On the left is a photo of the in-lite DISC Bollard installed in a garden next to a pathway. On the right is a photo of the in-lite DISC Bollard product with a grey background.

The DISC Bollard fixture is a perfect choice for illuminating garden boarders of steps, stairways, and paths. It can seamlessly blend in with its unique design, while providing a functional light source for navigating. The DISC is easy to install in soil, grass, or gravel, thanks to the included ground pin, making it a breeze to set up.

Install Recessed Lighting in Step Risers

FUSION 22 RVS

On the left is a photo of the in-lite FUSION 22 RVS product installed on steps leading to a deck with a conversation set. On the right is a product photo of the FUSION 22 RVS on a grey background.

Recessed deck lights can be installed in the risers, to make sure that each step is brightly illuminated. These lights are available in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits your project perfectly. Our FUSION 22 RVS, pictured above, radiates light that does not glare for a stunning deck lighting effect. Recessed step lighting is a subtle way to add an extra layer of safety to stairs and pathways, helping people navigate safely at night. Click here for more ways to use recessed step lights outdoors.

Why Install in-lite?

When you install in-lite products, you are ensuring that your clients’ stairs, decks, and patios are illuminated with the highest quality LED lights. Our products are designed for safety, style, and sustainability, and our revolutionary connection system was specifically designed with the professional in mind. You'll save both time and money on wiring installation, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that our high-tech lighting fixtures and transformers have an extended 5-year warranty.

These are just a selection of the outdoor step lighting ideas available for contractors and landscapers looking to make their projects shine! We have a wide range of outdoor lighting products perfect for any type of project. If you're looking to bring your clients' outdoor space to life with beautiful step lighting solutions, connect with our team!