In the world of home design, lighting is the "jewelry" of the property—it’s the finishing touch that can either elevate a space or make it feel stuck in a past decade. A recent feature by Better Homes & Gardens highlights several lighting trends that are officially making their exit as we move through 2025.
At All Lighting Direct, we believe that premium lighting should be timeless. Whether you are upgrading your backyard with FX Luminaire or refreshing your pathways with Dauer, staying ahead of these shifts ensures your investment adds lasting value and beauty to your property.
Key Takeaways: What’s "Out" in 2025
> Over-the-Top Industrial Styles: The heavy, dark, and overly "factory-looking" fixtures are being replaced by softer, more organic designs. In outdoor spaces, this means moving away from bulky, rusted-iron lanterns toward sleek, architectural silhouettes.
> The Edison Bulb Overload: Once a staple for every trendy patio, the singular, exposed Edison bulb is losing its charm. Designers are moving toward integrated LEDs and fixtures that prioritize light quality and diffusion over just "the look" of the filament.
> Harsh, High-Wattage Floodlights: The "security light" look that washes out your entire yard is out. 2025 is about Moonlighting—placing fixtures high in trees to mimic natural moonlight—and subtle Up-lighting that highlights textures without the glare.
> Solar "Stake" Lights: While convenient, cheap plastic solar stakes often lack the lumen output and longevity needed for a professional look. Homeowners are now investing in low-voltage systems from brands like FX Luminaire for consistent, high-quality illumination that lasts.
> "Matchy-Matchy" Sets: Buying the exact same fixture for every post and wall can feel uninspired. The new trend is "curated layering," where different textures and finishes (like brass and matte black) live together in harmony.
What outdoor lighting to choose for 2026?
The move toward 2026 is all about Layered Landscape Lighting and Smart Control. We are seeing a huge shift toward:
Zoning: Using controllers to dim the patio for dinner while keeping the perimeter trees brightly lit. FX Luminaire offers many options for outdoor lighting with zoning capabilities!
Color-Changing Technology: High-end systems that allow you to shift from warm white for daily use to festive colors for holidays.
Natural Materials: Brass and copper fixtures that patina over time, blending seamlessly into the landscape. Checkout Dauer and 702 Lighting for some great options!
For a deeper dive into which styles to ditch and how to refresh your home’s glow, check out the full article here: Better Homes & Gardens: Outdated Lighting Trends to Avoid.