Although lanterns can be used anywhere around the home, they have been used to light entrance halls for hundreds of years. Hall lanterns are often thought of as a traditional choice, but they now come in a wide choice of styles, finishes and sizes – there are lanterns that suit modern and contemporary interiors as well as period homes.
The Strathmore lantern from our Heritage Lighting Collection is a faithful reproduction of a traditional French farmhouse hall lantern dating from the early 1800’s. It has a simple handcrafted quality and is made in the UK from solid brass and shown here in the distressed finish
Entrance hallways are usually central spaces within our homes that lead into the main reception rooms. These are transitional, multi-functional spaces where we do not usually stay for very long and, consequently, we often overlook their importance. Yet they are where we receive visitors and welcome family and friends into our home and first impressions really do count. Lighting plays a crucial role in helping to providing that all important warm welcome
A delightful hand crafted leaded glass hall lantern in a Victorian Gothic style that works just perfectly in this hallway. It has a geometric pattern featuring clear textured glass with blue, red and yellow stained glass panels that will catch any natural daylight even when not lit up.
Lanterns function in much the same way as hanging pendant lighting, but they are generally speaking less decorative, relying instead on a simpler understated charm. Primitive box lanterns can be dated back to Medieval times. They would have been simple, rustic fittings in wrought iron lit by candles made from animal fat. Wealthier homes would have had larger lanterns often hanging on chains with a pulley system so they could be raised and lowered. Fast forward to the 21st century and candles have now been replaced by modern light bulbs and we have the option of adding glass panels. Modern manufacturing methods mean that lanterns can now be made in a wide choice of different metals.
This simple classic hanging lantern has a strong linear silhouette with an open airy feel. It works well in traditional interiors. and is shown here in the brushed nickel finish. Looks wonderful with vintage filament bulbs. The Larkin lanterns are also available in bronze finish and in a smaller size.
Medieval and Gothic Style Hall Lanterns
The smallest of the Medieval style Villa lanterns is shown here in the rustic finish. A wrought iron fitting manufactured in the UK using traditional methods. Lanterns like this would originally have been lit with candles but we can now adapt these reproduction lights to use modern electric light.
This is the larger 3 light Villa lantern shown here in the antique black finish. The design of this lantern is in a typical Gothic style and recreates the pointed window arches that were a common feature of Gothic architecture.
Traditional Georgian, Regency and Victorian Hall Lanterns
An attractive hexagonal hall lantern in gold polished brass that is ideal for lighting in Regency and Victorian entrance halls. The Moorgate lantern has a dual mount facility – this means it can be fitted without the chain for lower height ceilings or with the chain if a longer drop is required. This lantern gives a good light level with its 3 bulbs and clear glass panels.
The neat Pinestar Victorian or Edwardian hallway lantern hanging on a gold polished brass fitting. It features a beautiful mouth blown glass shade with an exquisite etched pineapple pattern.
The charming Adam glass globe lantern has been inspired by the Victorian age. The shade is surrounded by a decorative cast band with vintage rosette detailing. With a drop in excess of 2.3 metres this is a great choice for entrance hall and stairwell lighting.
A classic Georgian hall lantern shown here in a polished nickel finish. The Guildhall lanterns are also available in a dark bronze finish and there are matching wall lights too.
Bell Jar Hall Lanterns
Homes in 18th century Britain were dark, gloomy places with the only lighting provided by open fires or candles. Candles were hugely expensive and would only have been lit when visitors were expected. Bell jar lanterns were initially designed to be practical – the upturned shades protected the candles and stopped them being blown out by drafts when the doors were opened and the glass caps or cowls over the top of the lanterns were there to prevent smoke from the candles blackening the ceilings. Understandably they were very popular and as the years went on, and with the advances in glass manufacture, they became more decorative. Their appeal has continued to this day and they are prized for their traditional, classic good looks and timeless quality.
An exquisite hall lantern that exhibits all the traditional characteristics of the old bell jar lanterns. This Georgian lantern has a chrome fitting and an intricate hand cut fern pattern on the clear mouth blown glass shade. It also has the traditional smoke cowl which today is is just a decorative addition that enhances its vintage appearance.
The larger of the two Finsbury Park hall lanterns is shown here in the old bronze finish. Ideal for lighting in traditional Regency and Victorian homes and just perfect for entrance hallways. The glass bell jar has slight ribbed detailing and houses the 3 candle style light. The fitting has a central telescopic rod to allow the height to be adjusted.
This classic Cambridge bell jar lantern is made in solid brass with a highly polished gold finish and teamed with an elegantly shaped inverted glass shade. Lot of lovely decorative features makes this the perfect hall lantern for Georgian and Regency interiors.
Circular Hall Lanterns
The Gentry lanterns are full of classy regal elegance and old world charm, well suited for traditional period homes. They are available in a choice of sizes and metal finishes. The largest 6 light lantern shown here is made in solid brass with a gold polished finish teamed with clear curved glass panels.
This substantial circular hall lantern is suitable for lighting large entrance hallways and foyers. Would make an ideal feature light for a Georgian or Regency stairwell, or for lighting in an entrance hall of a hotel. Beautifully made in solid brass with a gold polished finish and bevelled glass panels. In the right setting the Surrey lantern is truly stunning
The traditional Orly hall lantern is one of our most popular lanterns. It is an elegant light in a simple non fussy design that is perfect for smaller hallways. The warm mellow antique brass finish works really well in traditional interiors. Other sizes and finishes are available
An attractive cylindrical hall lantern in a chrome finish which adds a slight contemporary twist. This Winchester lantern is lit by 2 candle style bulbs and is a good choice for smaller entrance halls. Other finishes are available
Modern Hall Lanterns
The Academy lantern is a modern glass free fitting with an elegantly tapered square frame in matt black metalwork which gives an uninterrupted view of the cluster of 4 lights in the centre of the fitting. It has a mirrored plate fitted into the top of the frame which shines down to create a floating illusion. A contemporary interpretation of a traditional hall lantern. The Cayden lantern style ceiling pendant offers a sculptured look with its bold box shaped frame and rod suspension which is softened slightly by the gently arching curves to the top. In warm natural brass metalwork enhanced by optical crystal accents on the corner joints. This lantern can be fitted onto sloping ceilings A modern box shaped hanging lantern with a bold diamond pattern in a dramatic matt black finish with bevelled glass panels. The Jepson fitting is Class 2 double insulated and can safely be used in homes with or without an earth cable. The Lakeside lantern is one of our latest additions. This compelling lantern has a vintage painted finish in hues of silver and pale gold flecked with subtle black speckles. A lustrous finish teamed with clear faceted glass rods that shimmer and sparkle.
Coloured and Stained Glass Hall Lanterns
Large Hall Lanterns
The larger of the two Senator chrome hall lanterns. It has 6 candle style lights spread over two tiers and clear arched glass panels. Essentially a traditional design but given a modern twist in the polished silver chrome finish
The Regal lanterns are a selection of top quality lanterns made in cast brass. Ideal for lighting in Georgian and Regency interiors where the classic lines will add a touch of refined elegance. The hexagonal lantern shown here is the largest size in the chrome finish and has 9 lights carried over two tiers. These lanterns are heavier than most lanterns you will find – this one weighs in at 25kgs.
The Yarmouth 6 light hall lantern is an elegant interpretation of a traditional lantern. It has a gracefully curved frame with the narrow edges facing outwards creating a casual inviting look with an attractive silhouette
Lanterns remain a popular choice for lighting in entrance halls due to their timeless elegance and beauty. Whether your entrance hallway is large or small Bespoke Lights will have a lantern to suit. If you need any help or advice on selecting the best lantern to compliment your home please do get in touch.
To take a look at some more suggestions for entrance hall and stairwell lighting click here or below
Come and explore our beautiful hanging hall ceiling lanterns. A classic lighting look that is perfect for illuminating entrance hallways and stairwell in both traditional and modern interiors. Many made in UK.
