Candle holders aren’t just practical items; they’re an opportunity to enhance the ambiance and style of a room. Thoughtfully chosen and arranged, they can bring warmth, sophistication, or a touch of whimsy to your decor. Here’s how designers use candle holders to elevate their spaces.
1. Play with Heights and Materials
“Mixing heights and materials creates an engaging visual rhythm,” says designer Amanda Roy, 42, founder of Studio Roy in New York. For a client’s dining table, she paired brass taper holders of different heights with glass tea light cups. The varying levels add depth, while the metallic finish reflects soft candlelight for a warm glow.
For a more casual look, try combining natural materials like ceramic or wood. Emily Carter, 39, from London-based boutique Hearth + Home, recommends stone or terracotta holders for a grounded, rustic feel.
2. Group Candle Holders for Impact
Arranging multiple candle holders together can make a big statement. “I love using odd numbers for asymmetry,” says Roy. Place three to five holders of differing designs on a mantel or coffee table, and layer them with small vases or books for added texture.
In dining settings, Roy suggests using a long tray or runner to anchor the arrangement. “This keeps the grouping intentional and prevents it from looking scattered,” she explains.
3. Think Beyond the Dining Table
While candle holders often take center stage at formal dinners, they’re equally impactful elsewhere.
- On a Shelf: Mix a single elegant candle holder with framed photos and small sculptures for a curated look.
- In the Bedroom: Use a pair of holders on a bedside table for soft, ambient lighting.
- Outdoors: Lantern-style candle holders protect flames from wind, creating a cozy vibe for patios or porches.
Gabriel Torres, 48, of Design Maison in Los Angeles, advises clients to consider functionality: “Use flameless candles for high-traffic areas, especially with pets or children.”
4. Seasonal Transformations
Candle holders can easily adapt to seasonal decor. During winter, Carter likes to place pillar candles in hurricane-style holders surrounded by greenery or pinecones. In summer, she opts for colorful glass holders paired with citronella candles for outdoor gatherings.
“You don’t need to buy new holders for every season,” she adds. “Updating the surrounding decor is often enough.”
5. Add a Personal Touch
One way to make your candle display truly unique is by incorporating heirloom pieces or handmade designs. Carter often sources artisanal holders from local markets, noting that imperfections in handmade items add charm.
For a DIY approach, Torres suggests repurposing vintage glassware or small bowls as tea light holders: “It’s an easy way to add a story to your decor.”
Final Thoughts
Candle holders are more than functional—they’re key elements of design. By experimenting with heights, materials, and arrangements, you can create displays that suit any room and season. Whether you prefer understated elegance or bold statements, there’s a candle holder style to match your vision.