Lanterns for your home: Light and coziness

Lanterns are more than just simple light sources. They are an expression of style and coziness that can give any room a special atmosphere. Whether in the living room, on the terrace, or in the garden – lanterns are versatile and available in numerous designs. In this article, you'll learn how to beautify your home with lanterns, which materials and designs are particularly trendy, and how to optimally integrate them into your decor.
Various materials and designs of lanterns

Lanterns come in a variety of materials and designs that perfectly adapt to different interior styles. Glass is one of the most popular materials for lanterns, as it beautifully reflects candlelight and adds an elegant touch. Glass lanterns are available in clear, frosted, or colored versions and can be decorated with various patterns or engravings. They fit excellently with modern and minimalist interior styles.
Metal lanterns, on the other hand, are robust and durable. They are often designed in antique or industrial styles and are particularly well-suited for outdoor use, as they are weather-resistant. Metal lanterns can be made from materials such as stainless steel, iron, or aluminum and are often adorned with intricate patterns or cutouts that create interesting light and shadow effects.
Wood is another popular material for lanterns, exuding warmth and naturalness. Wooden lanterns are ideal for rustic or Scandinavian interior styles and can be made from various types of wood such as oak, pine, or teak. They are often combined with glass or metal accents to create a harmonious look.
In addition to the classic materials, there are also lanterns made from ceramic, concrete, or even paper. Ceramic lanterns are often handmade and available in a variety of colors and shapes. They add an artistic touch to any room. Concrete lanterns are modern and minimalist and fit well with urban interior styles. Paper lanterns are lightweight and often printed in bright colors or patterns, making them a cheerful and cost-effective option.
The choice of the right material and design depends on your personal taste and the desired location. While glass and metal lanterns can be used both indoors and outdoors, wooden and paper lanterns are more suitable for indoor use. Experiment with different materials and designs to create the perfect atmosphere in your home.
Lanterns for indoor and outdoor use

Lanterns are incredibly versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors. In the living room, they create a cozy atmosphere that invites relaxation. Place them on the coffee table, the fireplace, or on shelves to spread soft light. Combine different sizes and designs to create interesting accents and visually enhance the room.
In the kitchen or dining room, lanterns can serve as atmospheric table decorations. They give the room a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for social evenings with friends or family. Make sure the lanterns are not too tall to avoid obstructing the view, and choose designs that match the style of your dishes and table decorations.
In the bedroom, lanterns provide a calming and romantic mood. Place them on nightstands or windowsills to create a gentle light that invites relaxation and dreaming. Choose lanterns with scented candles to additionally spread a pleasant fragrance.
Lanterns can also create a relaxing atmosphere in the bathroom. Place them on the edge of the bathtub or the sink to create a spa-like ambiance. Ensure that the lanterns stand securely and cannot tip over.
Outdoors, lanterns are ideal for illuminating patios, balconies, or gardens. They create an inviting atmosphere for mild summer evenings or social barbecues. Choose weather-resistant materials like metal or glass to ensure the lanterns withstand the elements. Hang them on trees or pergolas, place them on tables, or along paths to bathe the outdoor area in atmospheric light.
For outdoor use, solar lanterns are an eco-friendly option. They charge during the day and provide light in the evening without the need for batteries or electricity. Make sure the solar cells receive enough sunlight to achieve maximum brightness.
Whether indoors or outdoors – lanterns are a simple and effective way to bring light and coziness into your home. Experiment with different placements and combinations to create the perfect atmosphere.
DIY ideas for personalized lanterns

Homemade lanterns are a wonderful way to let your creativity run wild and give your home a personal touch. With a few simple materials and a bit of skill, you can create unique lanterns that perfectly match your decor style.
A simple and cost-effective DIY idea is to use old mason jars. You can decorate them with paint, fabric, or lace to give them a new look. Use acrylic paints to paint the jars in your favorite colors, or glue fabric strips or lace ribbons around the jars for a romantic look. Fill the jars with sand or small stones to securely place the candles.
Another creative option is to use natural materials. Collect branches, leaves, or shells and attach them to the jars with hot glue. These natural elements give the lanterns a rustic charm and are particularly well-suited to a natural or Scandinavian decor style.
For a modern and minimalist design, you can use concrete to cast lanterns. Mix the concrete according to the instructions and pour it into molds that you can make from plastic cups or silicone molds. Let the concrete harden and remove the mold to get a unique lantern. These concrete lanterns are particularly durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
If you enjoy working with paper, you can also craft paper lanterns. Cut patterns or shapes into thick paper or cardboard and form it into a cylinder. Glue the ends together and place a candle in the center. These paper lanterns are lightweight and can be designed in various colors and patterns.
Another original idea is to use old cans. Remove the labels and clean the cans thoroughly. With a hammer and nail, you can punch holes in the cans to create patterns or designs. These can lanterns are sturdy and perfect for outdoor use.
No matter which DIY idea you choose, make sure the lanterns are safe and the candles stand securely. Always use fireproof materials and never leave burning candles unattended. With a little creativity and skill, you can create unique lanterns that give your home a personal and cozy touch.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lanterns
For outdoor use, lanterns made from weather-resistant materials like metal or glass are particularly suitable. These materials are robust and resistant to the elements, making them ideal for use on terraces, balconies, or in the garden. Metal lanterns, often made from stainless steel, iron, or aluminum, are especially durable and can feature intricate patterns that create interesting light and shadow effects. Glass lanterns are also a good choice as they beautifully reflect candlelight and are available in various designs.
Another option for outdoor use is solar lanterns. These eco-friendly lanterns charge during the day through sunlight and provide light in the evening without the need for batteries or electricity. Make sure that the solar cells receive enough sunlight to achieve maximum brightness.
If you want to use lanterns made of wood or paper outdoors, you should ensure they are protected from rain and moisture, as these materials are not weatherproof. A canopy or a sheltered area can help here. Overall, weatherproof lanterns offer an easy way to bathe the outdoor area in atmospheric light and create an inviting atmosphere.
The safety of using lanterns in your home is of utmost importance to prevent accidents. Here are some tips that can help you use lanterns safely:
1. **Stable Placement:** Ensure that the lanterns are placed on a stable and level surface to prevent tipping over. Avoid placing them near flammable materials like curtains or paper.
2. **Fireproof Base:** Use a fireproof base, especially when placing lanterns on delicate surfaces like wooden tables. This protects the surface from heat and wax.
3. **Candle Holders:** Make sure the candles are securely placed in the lantern and cannot slip. Use candle holders or sand if necessary to fix the candles.
4. **Air Circulation:** Ensure that the lanterns are sufficiently ventilated to avoid overheating. Avoid using them in enclosed spaces without adequate air circulation.
5. **Supervision:** Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish the candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
6. **Children and Pets:** Keep lanterns out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents.
7. **Fire Extinguisher:** Keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby to react quickly in case of an emergency.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of lanterns without having to worry about safety.
For a modern interior style, lanterns with clean lines and simple designs are suitable. Glass lanterns are an excellent choice as they reflect light elegantly and are available in various shapes and colors. Clear or frosted glass lanterns fit particularly well with a minimalist ambiance and can be combined with metallic accents to add a touch of elegance.
Metal lanterns in geometric shapes or with an industrial look are also ideal for modern interiors. Materials like stainless steel or aluminum give the lanterns a contemporary touch and go well with urban or loft-like living styles. These lanterns can feature delicate patterns or cutouts that create interesting light and shadow effects.
Concrete lanterns are another option for modern interior styles. They are minimalist and robust, fitting well with an urban or industrial look. Concrete lanterns can be cast in various shapes and offer a unique texture that blends well into modern living spaces.
If you want to add a touch of color, choose lanterns in muted or metallic shades like gray, black, or copper. These colors complement modern interior styles and give the room a stylish touch.
Overall, lanterns for a modern interior style should be simple and elegant, focusing on clean lines and high-quality materials. By choosing the right lanterns, you can give your modern home a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Lanterns are a versatile decoration option that can give your living room a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here are some ideas on how to effectively use lanterns in your living room:
1. **Combination of different sizes:** Use lanterns in various sizes to create visual interest. Place them in groups on the coffee table, the fireplace, or on shelves to create a harmonious look.
2. **Adding color accents:** Choose lanterns in colors that match your existing decor or deliberately set accents. Colored glass lanterns can complement the color scheme of your living room or provide a contrast.
3. **Thematic decoration:** Adapt the lanterns to seasonal or thematic decorations. For example, use lanterns with autumn motifs in the fall or those with snowflakes in the winter.
4. **Scented candles:** Use lanterns with scented candles to add a pleasant fragrance to your living room. Make sure the scent is not too overpowering and harmonizes well with other room fragrances.
5. **Placement on windowsills:** Place lanterns on windowsills to utilize natural light and create an atmospheric lighting that is visible from outside.
6. **Combination with plants:** Combine lanterns with houseplants to create a natural and relaxing atmosphere. The combination of light and green plants can enhance well-being and enliven the room.
7. **Hanging lanterns:** Use hanging lanterns to set vertical accents. These can be attached to the ceiling or wall hooks and offer an interesting alternative to traditional table decorations.
By creatively using lanterns in your living room, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that invites you to linger and relax.
Solar wind lights offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to create light in your outdoor area. One of the biggest advantages of solar wind lights is that they do not require batteries or electricity. They use the energy of the sun to charge during the day and provide light in the evening. This makes them not only environmentally friendly but also inexpensive to operate.
Another advantage of solar wind lights is their ease of use. Since they do not require cables or sockets, they can be flexibly placed anywhere in the garden, on the terrace, or the balcony. This allows for easy and quick installation without having to worry about power connections.
Solar wind lights are also safer than traditional candles because they do not have an open flame. This reduces the risk of fires and makes them ideal for use near children and pets.
Many solar wind lights are equipped with a dusk sensor that automatically turns on the light at dusk. This provides atmospheric lighting without you having to intervene manually.
Another advantage is the durability of solar wind lights. Since they have no moving parts and are made of weather-resistant materials, they are robust and long-lasting. They are generally resistant to rain, wind, and other weather conditions, making them ideal for outdoor use.
Overall, solar wind lights offer a practical and sustainable way to illuminate your outdoor area without burdening the environment or causing high operating costs.
Creating lanterns is a creative and entertaining way to add a personal touch to your home. Here are some simple DIY ideas to create unique lanterns:
1. **Mason Jars:** Use old mason jars as the base for your lanterns. You can paint them with acrylic paints or decorate them with fabric and lace to give them a new look. Fill the jars with sand or small stones to securely place the candles.
2. **Natural Materials:** Collect branches, leaves, or shells and attach them to the jars with hot glue. These natural elements give the lanterns a rustic charm and go well with a natural decor style.
3. **Concrete:** Mix concrete according to instructions and pour it into molds that you can make from plastic cups or silicone molds. Let the concrete harden and remove the mold to get a unique lantern. These concrete lanterns are particularly durable and modern.
4. **Paper:** Cut patterns or shapes into thick paper or cardboard and form it into a cylinder. Glue the ends together and place a candle in the center. These paper lanterns are lightweight and can be designed in various colors and patterns.
5. **Cans:** Remove the labels from old cans and clean them thoroughly. With a hammer and nail, you can punch holes in the cans to create patterns or designs. These can lanterns are sturdy and perfect for outdoor use.
For all DIY projects, make sure the lanterns are safe and the candles stand securely. Always use fireproof materials and never leave burning candles unattended. With a little creativity and skill, you can create unique lanterns that add a personal and cozy touch to your home.
For a romantic ambiance, lanterns that emit a soft and warm light are ideal. Glass lanterns are an excellent choice as they elegantly reflect the candlelight and create a cozy atmosphere. Choose clear or frosted glass lanterns to produce a gentle light that envelops the room in a romantic mood.
Lanterns with delicate patterns or cutouts are also ideal, as they create interesting light and shadow effects that enhance a romantic atmosphere. These lanterns can be made of metal or ceramic and are often available in antique or playful designs.
Scented candles in lanterns can add an extra romantic touch. Choose scents like vanilla, lavender, or rose, which create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Make sure the scent is not too overpowering and harmonizes well with other room fragrances.
For an especially romantic ambiance, you can choose lanterns in heart shapes or with romantic motifs. These special designs are often available in various materials and can underscore the theme of the decoration.
Candles in warm tones like red, pink, or gold can also contribute to the romantic mood. Combine different lanterns to create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for romantic evenings for two.
Overall, lanterns for a romantic ambiance should offer soft light and appealing designs that immerse the room in a warm and inviting mood.

by James Ellis
James Ellis is a furniture designer, gardener and passionate advocate for sustainable living. His designs combine craftsmanship with a strong environmental awareness – especially in the outdoor space. For James, furniture isn’t disposable – it’s an investment in the future.In his articles, he shows you how to style your favourite pieces outdoors too – from a bench made of reclaimed wood to a modular planter that doubles as a seat. He offers practical tips on how to create a garden, balcony or terrace that’s comfortable, stylish and environmentally friendly. Durability and resource-conscious production matter deeply to him. His favourite items are robust, repairable and timeless.
Off-duty: James lives in an old cottage near Bristol, with a large garden, his own composting system and an outdoor kitchen made from recycled materials. It’s where he tests his ideas and materials before sharing them in his writing. He’s also involved in local initiatives for sustainable building.
Transparency note: James Ellis writes his articles with lots of love – and a little help from AI.