If you’ve been part of the Crown Collection family for a while, then you will be aware of our unapologetic love for chandeliers. But we also have a soft spot (and a stunning curated selection) of antique hanging lanterns. We are of the persuasion that if you’re looking for a touch of designer minimalism, then lanterns are easily the decor and lighting alternative for a little patina and subtle grandness. 

In an era where minimalist and modern designs often dominate, embracing the past can add an element of intrigue and uniqueness to your home. Antique lanterns – with their architectural flair and warm glow – offer a timeless contrast that will transform any space. 

Infusing modern interiors with historical charm

Part of the irresistible allure and wow factor of antique hanging lanterns is their sense of history and nostalgia. Originating from diverse cultures and time periods, their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail are a testament to the dedication of artisans from bygone eras. 

Incorporating a lantern into your modern interior creates a captivating focal point that sparks conversations and adds a touch of originality to your personal style aesthetic.

Antique hanging lanterns seamlessly blend with modern design aesthetics. The juxtaposition of old and new brings a harmonious balance that elevates the overall atmosphere of a room. Whether your home boasts a minimalist, industrial, French farmhouse, eclectic or rustic pared-back look, lanterns have the versatility to complement and enhance the existing decor.

Integrating the gorgeous shapes with a touch of surprise

Known for their visual impact, antique lanterns come in a stunning array of shapes and sizes. Finding the appropriate lantern size and shape for the scale of the room is crucial to achieving the desired visual impact. 

Large lanterns, with intricate metalwork, can serve as captivating focal points, while smaller ones delicately enhance corners and nooks. Lantern shapes, such as cylindrical, square, hexagonal or Moroccan-inspired, will always add surprise and interest to your spaces.

Crafted with glass and a myriad of materials – including wrought iron, brass and copper – each material’s patina brings a unique texture and colour palette to a space, allowing you to choose lanterns that harmonize or contrast with your existing decor elements.    

Including more than one antique lantern 

Chandeliers are typically solo actors in the world of interior design and don’t like to share the spotlight. But this is not the case with antique lanterns.

A repetition of hanging lanterns – down a hallway, over a kitchen island or above a dining room table – creates design rhythm and movement, illuminating your space with a touch of playful artistry. 

Customising your configuration of a few lanterns – especially at different heights – works really well in double-volume entry spaces and upstairs. (Experiment with different heights and locations to find the perfect arrangement that enhances the aesthetics of your space).

A symmetrical statement – on either side of an entryway or porch – is where a pair of antique lanterns really come into their own. Positioning a duo of outdoor pots – with flowers, topiaries or shrubs underneath –  creates a sculptural garden feature when illuminated. (You can also have a little fun with candle lanterns on stakes to dot around your garden or light a pathway). 

Investing in lanterns at The Crown Collection 

As specialist purveyors of all things ‘antique,’ we are of the opinion that hanging lanterns are more than just beautiful lighting fixtures. They are captivating pieces of luminary art that will find their way into your heart and your home. 

By carefully choosing lanterns that align with your personalised interior design, you can seamlessly blend the old with the new and achieve drama and ambience to complement any indoor or outdoor space. 

Pop in at The Crown Collection – online or in-store at 20 Ballyclare Drive, Bryanston – to truly appreciate our handpicked collection of antique lanterns.