Lighting Principles for Outdoor Kitchens

Lighting design is a “silent” technique.

Think about a beautiful scene in a film. The audience doesn’t consciously register the soft light on the actors or the warm glow in the background. They just feel the mood.

The same principle applies to your outdoor kitchen. When the lighting is well-designed, the space feels inviting and intentional without calling attention to the fixtures themselves.

We’re here to share three simple principles you can apply to your outdoor kitchen, especially around your Forno Bravo oven.

1. Functionality

Your space may feel inviting, but if you can’t  clearly see what you’re cooking, add more light.

Use string lights, lamps, or brighter task fixtures to illuminate your cooking area. The goal is simple: create a space that feels great while keeping every step of cooking safe and visible.

2. Accents

Let’s say your kitchen includes features like a stone facade on your oven, use accent lighting to highlight the texture and craftsmanship.

LED strips or subtle wall lights can bring those details to life and add depth after dark. Experiment with placement and intensity to find what best complements your space.

3. Ambience

Warm lighting creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Cooler white light feels brighter and more energetic.

It’s not a strict rule. Experienced designers break it often, but they understand the fundamentals first.

For now, keep it simple. Ask yourself: do you want your outdoor kitchen to feel calm and inviting, or vibrant and alive?

Combine them

The best lighting setups combine two or three of the principles above.

For example, the lights on the oven below highlight the facade while also illuminating the oven mouth for safe cooking. One set of lights creates both ambiance and function.

Want to explore our most popular ovens? Click the link below:

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