Outdoor lighting does more than help you see—it defines the look, feel, and function of your entire landscape. When it comes to illuminating your yard in Nashville, two options often come up: pathway lighting and flood lights.
Both serve important purposes—but which is best for your space?
Let’s compare these two lighting types based on safety, design, coverage, and cost to help you make the right choice for your home.
Pathway lights are low-to-the-ground fixtures designed to:
In Nashville neighborhoods like Brentwood and Franklin, path lights are a favorite for both function and beauty.
Common types of pathway lights include:
Pro Tip:
Pathway lighting is ideal for guiding guests safely along walkways and enhancing curb appeal with soft, focused light. Flood lights, on the other hand, provide broad illumination over large areas and are often used for home security. The best choice depends on your yard’s layout and goals.
Flood lights are high-intensity fixtures that cast a wide beam over large areas. They’re commonly installed on:
Flood lights are best for:
In areas like East Nashville, where safety and visibility are key, flood lights offer peace of mind and broad illumination.
| FEATURE | PATHWAY LIGHTING | FLOOD LIGHTS |
|---|---|---|
| PURPOSE | Guide movement, enhance beauty | Illuminate large areas, increase security |
| BRIGHTNESS | Soft Glow (low lumen) | Bright, Wide Beam (high lumen) |
| PLACEMENT | Along walkways, flower beds | On walls, poles or eaves |
| DESIGN IMPACT | Stylish, subtle | Functional, sometimes harsh |
| BEST USE | Front yard paths, gardens, driveways, patios | Backyards, driveways, garages, corners |
| ENERGY USE | Low (especially with LEDs) | Higher, unless motion-activated or LED |
Path lights are your best bet if your goal is to:
These fixtures are especially popular in older neighborhoods with charming landscaping and defined walkways.
Unsure whether path lights, flood lights—or both—are right for your yard? Schedule a free design
consultation
with Light TN and get expert advice tailored to your property.
Choose flood lights if you need to:
We often install dual-purpose systems: flood lights for security, and softer lights for beauty.
Absolutely. At Light TN, we often blend pathway lighting with flood lights to create a layered, balanced system.
Example:
This strategy ensures your yard looks stunning while staying safe and functional.
Wondering what type of bulb is best for your landscape lighting system? Learn the pros and cons of LED vs. halogen next ➝
From safety to ambiance, the right outdoor lighting can completely transform your Nashville home. Light TN designs and installs lighting systems that work together beautifully—whether you need subtle path lights, powerful flood lights, or both. Contact our team today to get started.
