Candle Holder Styles: 10 Ideas to Elevate Any Décor
Ten candle holder styles, from brass diyas and taper candlesticks to glass hurricanes and lanterns, with tips on matching them to a home and staying safe.
Candle holders change a room more than their size suggests. Light a couple on a dining table or shelf, and a plain room feels warm and festive. Here are ten styles and where each works best.
Classic
1. Brass taper candlesticks. Tall and elegant, perfect on a dining table in sets of three at different heights. Brushed brass looks warm and vintage; polished brass is more formal.
2. Brass and kansa diya stands. The Indian classic: a multi-tiered deepam or a simple brass diya. Use them with ghee or oil diyas, or with tealights for less mess. Lovely for Diwali and pooja corners.
3. Crystal and cut-glass holders. Cut glass scatters candlelight across a table. Best for formal dinners and celebrations.
Modern and minimal
4. Geometric metal holders. Black or gold wireframe shapes around a pillar candle. They suit contemporary apartments and look good unlit too.
5. Concrete or ceramic blocks. Matte, chunky holders in neutral tones for a calm, minimal look.
6. Glass cylinders and votives. Simple, cheap and safe. Group several sizes together with pebbles or dried flowers inside.
Rustic and warm
7. Wooden holders. Mango wood or driftwood bases with metal cups. Pair them with linen, jute and plants.
8. Lanterns. Metal or wooden lanterns with glass sides. They protect the flame, which makes them good for balconies and verandahs.
Statement pieces
9. Hurricane holders. A pillar candle inside a tall glass chimney. Elegant on a console table and safe from drafts.
10. Floating candle bowls. A wide glass or brass urli filled with water, floating candles and flower petals. A favourite at Indian weddings and Diwali entrances.
Matching holders to the space
- Small apartments: wall sconces and a single cluster of votives avoid clutter.
- Dining tables: keep candles below eye level or very tall, so they don't block conversation.
- Festive décor: mix brass diyas with glass votives for a traditional-modern look.
Candle safety
- Keep candles away from curtains, books and anything that can catch fire.
- Use holders that fit the candle snugly and sit on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
- Trim wicks to about 6 mm before lighting to reduce smoke.
- Never leave a burning candle in an empty room, or within reach of children and pets.
- Consider LED candles for children's rooms and hard-to-watch spots.
Frequently asked questions
Which candle holder is safest?
Enclosed holders like hurricanes and lanterns are safest because they shield the flame. Always use a heat-resistant base and never leave candles burning unattended.
