Roofline Lighting Ideas for Every Architecture Style
Published September 3, 2026
The right roofline layout depends on your architecture. Here is what works on the styles common in Central Ohio.
Colonial and traditional two-story
Symmetry is the whole point. Run continuous, evenly spaced C9s along the front eave and both rakes, add matching window wreaths on the second floor, and light the door with garland. Resist adding asymmetric accents — they fight the architecture. This is the dominant look in Worthington and New Albany.
Tudor and steep-pitch
Follow the gables. Tudors get their character from steep intersecting rooflines, so outlining each peak reads dramatically at night. Slate and tile roofs common in Upper Arlington require slate hooks rather than shingle clips.
Modern farmhouse and new construction
Keep it clean: main ridge, porch roof and the front gable only. Black window frames and white board-and-batten look excellent in cool white, which is why it is popular on newer Lewis Center and Jerome Village homes.
Ranch and single-story
A low roofline is inexpensive to light but visually flat on its own. Move part of the budget to two wrapped front trees and lit shrub beds, and the front of the house gains the depth the roofline cannot provide alone.