Lantern Lighting Ideas and Tips

If a typical chandelier or pendant light doesn't suit your latest lighting project, consider shifting your focus to lanterns as timeless centerpiece fixtures, with historical roots reimagined for modern settings. Before the advent of electric lights, when torches and candlelight were the standards of illumination, lanterns were used to enclose flames, making the lights safer and more portable. Modern lantern designs still reference the shape, style, and function of old-fashioned candle lanterns, with frames surrounding the fixture. However, without the need to guard against wind or other hazardous conditions that could flicker a flame, some design details can be altered, adding creativity to traditional shapes and materials, making this type of fixture suitable for any contemporary home aesthetic.

Lanterns versus Pendant Lights and Chandeliers

To differentiate between pendants and lanterns, consider the primary function of the light. Pendants typically have a single bulb with light directed downwards. They are most commonly used for task lighting and have a sleek, streamlined silhouette.

In contrast, lanterns usually feature a cluster of bulbs to illuminate a broad area. While both fixtures might have a frame around the light, lanterns are fully enclosed, whereas pendants have an open bottom that helps guide the light.

Sometimes, fixtures may blur the lines between these two designs—an example being a trendy fixture that includes a single bulb surrounded by an oversized globe frame. In such cases, the directionality of the light can help best determine where the fixture falls on the pendant/lantern spectrum. Lanterns are best suited for ambient lighting to illuminate an entire space, while pendants are ideal for targeted task lighting.

Lanterns versus Chandeliers

The designs of chandeliers and lanterns can significantly overlap. Both are multi-light fixtures and can be used most effectively for ambient lighting. Generally, chandeliers tend to be larger, with lights located at the ends of multiple arms. Chandeliers are also less likely to have a completely enclosed frame like lanterns. Because lanterns are more compact than chandeliers, they make a great alternative if you desire the central ornamentation of a chandelier but lack the space for a larger fixture.

Deciding Where to Place Lantern Fixtures

Entryway Lanterns: While hanging lights can be used in most rooms of your home, they are particularly well-suited for placement in entryways or foyers. Entryways require a lot of ambient lighting to maintain safety and functionality of the walkways, and the bulb configuration in entryway lantern fixtures is ideal for casting this type of light. These lantern fixtures are also stylish statement makers, adding a touch of wow factor right at the front door, setting the tone for the rest of your home.

Hallway Lantern Lighting: Indoor hallways without much natural light can be challenging, and lighting this space is often overlooked. Ceiling lights and wall sconces are typical fixtures for this room, but hanging lanterns here present a creative and stylish option. Depending on the size of the hallway, one fixture may be sufficient, or you might consider hanging multiple lanterns at various points along the corridor.

Dining Room and Kitchen Lantern Lighting: Kitchens and dining rooms are classic spaces to showcase stylish chandeliers. If you wish to incorporate the lantern look in these rooms, many of the suggestions and style tips that apply to hanging pendants and branched chandeliers are also relevant for lanterns. The primary difference lies in the type of lighting each fixture can provide. Pendants bring focused task lighting, while lanterns are best suited for ambient lighting.

Living Room Lanterns: Living room lanterns add a touch of class and elegance to spaces that require a chic focal point but may be overwhelmed by traditional chandeliers. Lanterns enclose the light within a frame, creating a streamlined look while still providing sufficient ambient light. Pair them with layered lighting such as floor lamps, table lamps, or wall sconces for a complete setup.

Bedroom Hanging Lanterns: The bedroom is another great space to incorporate lanterns, either centered in the room or placed above the bed. For king or queen beds, the fixture should not exceed 36 inches in width, while smaller beds suit lanterns about 24 inches wide. Always ensure lanterns are hung at least seven feet above the floor for safety.

Outdoor Hanging Lanterns and Wall Sconces: Since lanterns were originally intended to protect flames from the elements, lantern-style fixtures are especially common in outdoor lighting. Wall sconces are perfect for framing doorways and adding safety as well as curb appeal. Make sure to select wet-rated or damp-rated fixtures depending on exposure to the elements.