Lanterns are a few home decor items that can never go wrong when adding warmth, charm or versatility. Lanterns have been a mainstay in design for centuries. Whether you want to establish a warm, intimate setting indoors or design some romance in your surroundings outdoors, this fairly specialised mega theme never seems to go out of fashion. In my 10 years of working on interior design, I can tell you that lantern decor can truly make a great difference for space, being this stunning statement or a soft note that brings a complementary touch to the room or garden vibe.
This post will show you how to incorporate lanterns into your home decor and why they are a classic choice for any style.
The Beauty of Lanterns
Function and aesthetics combine. Lanterns aren’t only for lighting; they are a complementary focal point for the room’s form and function. Lanterns began as simple oil-burning devices and have evolved to modern, battery or electric versions while retaining their ‘rustic’, cheery appearance.
Tip: Lanterns can be made from wood, metal, glass, or a mixture of the three or any number of materials and are versatile enough to be used almost anywhere, fitting an elegant, comfortable, or whimsical ambience according to the style you prefer. The fact that it’s possible to insert candles, or LED lights, into the lanterns brings warmth and intimacy that few other lighting sources can match.
Lanterns as Centerpieces
Table centrepieces are great with
lanterns for a casual gathering, dinner party, or formal event, such as a wedding or special day/floral event. Choose a larger lantern or a set of smaller ones to get a dramatic effect. If you are into a modern look, choose lanterns with a clear line and metallic finish, matte black or gold. Wooden lanterns, distressed finishes and woven rattan versions can be a direct hit for a more rustic or boho vibe.
Tip: Add an extra dimension with the base of the lantern filled with decorative stones, sand or faux flowers, and a flameless candle (or incense) for a soft, safe glow (but the latter is the fire-free option). This flicker of light gives it a very nice, warm table decor.
Hanging Lanterns
Add Vertical Charm Adding dimension to a room or outdoor space is easy with hanging lanterns. Suspended, they can be from the ceiling, transforming an instant focal point or ambience in any location. This approach particularly suits areas with high ceilings, such as living rooms, our foyer, or dining area. Hanging lanterns can work for an outdoor space like a porch or patio, and—they’re especially magical during evenings and late nights. Essentially, think of them as the finest way to add a touch of atmosphere to your garden party or other cozy outdoor gathering – just the right amount of aesthetically pleasing light.
Tip: Choose lanterns with adjustable chains or cords for easy alignment and movement. Three to five lanterns together at different heights give any space depth and visual interest.
Outdoor Lanterns
Create an Inviting Ambiance
Outdoor lanterns will transform your backyard into an enchanting haven, balcony, or garden without hassle. Lanterns have a distinct and versatile solution, creating a peaceful space for quiet reflection or an atmospheric space for an outdoor dinner. When you’re outside, metal and glass lanterns with open sides are perfect because they let the air in, protecting the candle. If you live in a place with bad weather, look for designs resistant to weather elements. Hanging lanterns with twine or rope also adds a rustic feel to your outdoor decor, for example, for a coastal or cabin decoration.
Tip: To get even more dramatic results, string lanterns through pathways, into garden corners and near seating areas. A few of the lanterns can change the mood dramatically, transforming an intimate, inviting glow.
Lanterns in Entryways
A Welcoming Light Why not make your first impression memorable to your home’s visitors with the entryway? Entryway decor doesn’t get any better than lanterns: They serve a function and have an elegant look. A huge, bold lantern stuck centrally at the front door can give a welcome in a lovely glow. Alternatively, sleep a few smaller ones in line along the stairs or hallway for a classy look. If you’ve got functionality and style on your mind, go for lanterns that incorporate decorative design and storage, like lanterns with inbuilt compartments for carrying all the necessities you might need, like an umbrella key or both.
Tip: Place a large lantern next to a console table or a narrow bench for an eye-catching look. Make it whimsy by adding seasonal flowers, pumpkins or pinecones to the base to keep it fun all year round.
Lantern Decor in the Bedroom
Soft, Cozy Lighting Lanterns can
be a very soothing light source in the bedroom, and there’s something very relaxing about soft, flickering light. The lanterns can be placed on a bedside table, hung above the bed or in a reading nook — both characteristics add warmth and serenity to the room. A cosy, calming atmosphere results from mixing a lantern with soft pillows, plush throws and natural materials such as wood or stone. The bedroom-safe flameless lanterns are perfect because they have a soft, glowing light without worrying about an open flame.
Tip: Place a few lanterns around the perimeter of your room, especially by your windows, to imitate moonlight. It will give a nice tone to your sanctuary so that it feels calmer.
Besides Mixing Lanterns with Other Light Fixtures
Lanterns are a gorgeous light option all on their own, but they complement other light sources wonderfully. For instance, in a living room, you can have a central chandelier or pendant light as the primary lighting source, while hundreds of smaller lanterns are used as accent lighting. This layered approach to lighting means that your home won’t feel lighted, cosy and welcoming without the help of overhead lights. To set a sophisticated, multi-dimensional ambience, combine the lanterns with string(s) of fairy lights or wall sconces.
Tip: Dimmable fixtures paired with lanterns help provide appropriate lighting for a mood or time of day. You can only achieve a balanced, functional, and stylish atmosphere when you pair multiple light sources.
Seasonal Touch
Holidays and Special Occasions. Lanterns on Lanterns are versatile enough to use all year on cozy winter nights and breezy summer evenings. During the holidays, lanterns make great décor pieces to decorate with ribbons or symbols like holly or pine branches to match your decor theme. Like autumn leaves and pumpkins for fall or fresh flowers and greenery for spring, they can be decorated similarly.
Tip: Place lanterns among your holiday decorations for festive seasons to unify the overall design. Additionally, they can be used as decoration and functional lighting at parties or special occasions.
Conclusion
A Timeless Accent for Any Space Lantern decor is a vintage and versatile item that will transform any room instantly into a place of elegance, warmth and style. From using them as an elegant statement, an understated touch, or lights for the outdoors, your home gets an unparalleled character with lanterns. Because they can elicit feelings of calm, nostalgia, and romance, they make a wonderful addition to any home decor style, from modern to rustic, industrial to bohemian. While lanterns are just another solution for lighting up a place, they’re so much more: a call to slow down, relax, and feel the beauty of another familiar daily routine. Now, you can light up your garden, make cosy corners indoors, or enhance the look of your decor with lanterns – they’re the ideal way to enjoy your space.
Have a happy decorating, and let beautiful lanterns shine with the soft glow of your home!
