As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, lighting at home becomes increasingly important. Candles and tealights are more than just decorative elements—their warm, flickering glow has a physiological effect too: it helps you relax, slows your breathing, and makes it easier to leave the day’s stress behind. It’s no coincidence that in Nordic countries, candles are practically a wintertime home essential. In this article, we’ll show you how to use them thoughtfully—and how to choose the right candle holder.
Candles as decorative accents—not just for lighting
In most homes, candles only come out during a power outage or on a special occasion. But a candle holder is a decorative element in its own right—it adds character to a shelf, table, or bedside table even when unlit. The trick is to think in groups and layers rather than using candle holders on their own.
Rules for layered candle displays
The most beautiful candle displays always feature several elements—candle holders of different heights, shapes, and materials that come together to create a cohesive look. Here are a few simple rules:
- Odd numbers: A group of 3 or 5 candle holders looks more natural than 2 or 4
- Varying heights: Tall + medium + short candle holders add dynamism to the arrangement
- Mixing materials: Glass + terracotta + wood or metal—use no more than 2–3 materials together
- Use a tray as a base: Candle holders grouped on a tray look neat and intentional
Natural-material candle holders—wood and terracotta
Candle holders made from natural materials suit most home styles and look especially good in fall and winter decor.
The SOLAS natural wood candle holder set consists of three pieces in different sizes—place them together and you have an instant arrangement. The SERENE natural terracotta candle holder with rattan lattice, size L combines terracotta and rattan for a look that’s both warm and textured. If you’re looking for a statement piece, the TOTEM African candle holder sculpture is both decorative and functional—a striking accent for a shelf or coffee table.
For a truly dramatic effect, the TRUNK XXL giant tree-trunk candle holder instantly sets the mood when placed on the floor—especially beside a sofa or in front of the fireplace.
Glass candle holders—light and reflections
What makes glass candle holders special is the way candlelight shines through them and casts reflections on the walls and ceiling, amplifying the effect of the light. For fall and winter decor, smoky, amber, and dark-toned glass are especially beautiful.
The NOCTURNE cylindrical charcoal-gray glass candle holder is understated and elegant, and suits both Scandinavian and Japandi interiors. The OLIVINE smoky green geometric square candle holder has a bolder character, while its green tone looks especially beautiful alongside natural branches or plants. With its honeycomb pattern and warm golden hue, the GOLDEN HIVE wide ribbed amber glass candle holder is one of the best choices for fall table decor.
If you’d like to group several tealights together, the BOW GLOW gold tealight holder set comes with two pieces—place them on a tray for an instant arrangement.
Metal candle holders—character and elegance
Metal candle holders add a stronger character and look especially good in darker, richer fall decor. The NIHAL antique copper metal candle holder set with twisted stems includes two pieces of different heights—the twisted stems create an elegant, artisanal look. The RODRIGO 44 cm metal candle holder is a tall, festive piece—perfect beside a dining table or on a mantel. The PIERCED BALL XL black-and-gold metal sphere candle holder casts a beautiful pattern on the wall through its openwork design.
Carved stone tealight holders—artisanal accents
If you’re looking for something truly unique, hand-carved stone tealight holders are in a class of their own. The SUMBA 27 stone tealight holder with a hand-carved face sculpture and the SUMBA 26 stone tealight holder with a hand-carved sculpture are both decorative and functional—each piece is unique, as is only natural with natural stone.
Where to place your candles
- Dining table: Group 3–5 candle holders in the center—with the main light switched off during dinner
- Living room: Group them on a tray on the coffee table, or place them on a shelf with other decorative accents
- Bedroom: Place 2 smaller candle holders on the bedside table for an evening wind-down ritual
- Bathroom: Place 2–3 tealight holders beside the tub or on the sink for an instant spa atmosphere
- Entryway: Place a larger, striking candle holder on a console table or on the floor
Summary
Candles are the simplest and most affordable way to instantly change the mood of your home. You don’t need many—but you do need the right candle holder, the right placement, and thoughtful layering. Natural materials, varying heights, and odd numbers: these are the basics. Leave the rest to the flickering light.
Explore the SMOL candle holder collection and create a warm glow in your home for the colder months.
