For covered patio spaces, you can go with outdoor pendants, flushmount ceiling fixtures or even recessed lighting. Make sure you select fixtures rated for the outdoors and put them on a dimmer so you can control the light output. When it comes to task lighting, though, crank that dimmer up.

‘Try ceiling lights overhead on a covered patio alongside outdoor table lamps, step lights for safety, path lights to illuminate your walkways. For softer lighting, add some candlelight with lanterns or candle holders. You can also hang string lights along railings or overhead for a festive look.’

Mix together several types of accent lights—fairy lights, icicle lights, globe lights, paper lanterns, etc.—for a Bohemian twist. Try extending your string lights past your covered porch to an adjacent area, like a fire pit, hot tub, or grill. This will give your backyard a cohesive feel and eliminate the need for dedicated path lights.

If you have a covered outdoor dining area — whether it’s a tent canopy or a permanent structure — consider hanging an outdoor chandelier or light fixture for ambient lighting. Budget options include large paper lanterns outfitted with a simple single-socket electrical cord — just make sure to bring it inside before it rains.