Pathway Lighting

Flight of Fancy

Since the days when 18th-century blacksmiths welded lanterns onto fence railings, outdoor lighting has become an art. Its tools, inspired by the world of theater, include uplights, spots, halo-throwing globes, and even solar-powered torches. Whether lining the edges of pathways, illuminating steps, or brightening entries, landscape fixtures add security as they impart style. Some, like the multicolored glass orbs, graceful bronze pillars, and slender copper lanterns on these pages, lend drama to a garden even when they're turned off. Trust us—with footlights like these to set the stage, any house can have star quality.

A favorite with This Old House staff for its whimsical antique look, this cast-brass branch and canary with a bronze finish should attract neighborly admirers, too. 23 inches high, $297; hinkleylighting.com