Outdoor lanterns do more than light up a space. They help set the tone for your property, highlight architectural details, and create a welcoming atmosphere. While many people choose one lantern style and stick with it, mixing different designs can add personality and depth. The trick is blending those styles in a way that still feels coordinated.
If you want to combine several lantern looks without creating visual chaos, here are a few simple guidelines to follow!
Start With a General Style Direction
Before you pick individual lanterns, think about the overall vibe you want. Maybe your home leans classic, rustic, modern, or historic. Once that direction is set, it becomes much easier to choose lanterns that work well together. You can absolutely mix shapes and mounting styles, but they should feel like they belong to the same design family.
For example, a Gothic hanging lantern can complement a traditional wall mount if both share similar metal finishes or glass choices. Modern Gothic lanterns are also becoming a popular way to blend classic and contemporary styles. They offer bold, striking details without feeling overly ornate, which makes them easy to pair with simpler wall mounts or post lights. If you want your space to feel a little more dramatic while still staying cohesive, a modern Gothic lantern can be the perfect accent.
Find One Unifying Feature
When mixing styles, a shared detail can tie everything together. This might be:
• A matching metal finish
• The same type of glass
• Repeated decorative elements like finials or brackets
Even if the lanterns look different, that one repeated feature helps the space stay cohesive.
Use Each Lantern Style With Purpose
Mixing works best when every lantern style has a job. Post lanterns can guide a driveway. Wall mounts can frame an entryway. Hanging lanterns can bring charm to a porch or patio. When each type has a clear purpose, the variety feels intentional instead of random.
Balance Statement Pieces With Simpler Designs
If you love an ornate lantern style, use it as a focal point rather than scattering it everywhere. Let bold lanterns stand out near entrances or gathering areas. Then use simpler pieces in supporting spaces where you want function without drawing attention. This creates a natural visual balance that helps everything feel unified.
Keep the Scale Consistent
Even when styles vary, the size of your lanterns should feel proportional to one another. A very large lantern placed next to a tiny one can throw off the entire look. When scale is consistent, different styles can blend smoothly.
Lay Out Your Choices Before Installing
If possible, gather sample finishes or review product images next to each other. Seeing the pieces together makes it much easier to feel confident about your choices. It also helps you make sure the mix feels intentional and not overwhelming.
Customization Makes Mixing Even Easier
One of the best ways to successfully combine lantern styles is through customization. When you can choose the finish, glass, bracket, size, and decorative details, it becomes simple to create a coordinated look even if the lantern shapes differ. Custom lanterns let you match your lighting to your architecture and your personal style without compromise.
At Herwig Lighting Inc., our custom lanterns are handcrafted with durable materials, timeless designs, and a wide selection of finishes, glass choices, and decorative details. We can help you bring your vision to life and ensure every fixture feels perfectly matched to your property.
If you are ready to create a one-of-a-kind outdoor lighting plan that blends different lantern styles while staying beautifully cohesive, complete our online contact form to get started!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.