9 solar lanterns that’ll bring a sparkle to your eyes
25.5.2025
Translation: Elicia Payne
Solar-powered LED garden lights allow you to bring atmospheric light outside – without any cables. They’re weatherproof, practical and come in many styles from simple to eye-catching.
Outdoor areas are increasingly becoming a second living room – with weatherproof designs that are as chic as those indoors. Even solar spotlights now look like classic lamps and charge themselves. By the way, it’s worth taking a closer look at decorative lights. Many have long-lasting LEDs, but these are often permanently installed and can’t be replaced.
1. ## Classy wickerwork
With its warm white light, the Solar Calm Lantern from STT sets the mood. It gains extra points for its handle and timer function. The braided design blends into any environment. In heavy rain it’s better to keep it indoors because it only has IP44 protection.
The downside to the lamp is its low weight – just one puff of wind is enough to knock it down.
Source: STT
2. The minimalist look
The dimmable Solar Comfort from STT (IP44) is completely solar-powered – it charges itself during the day and creates a cosy atmosphere in the evening. Alternatively, it can also be charged via USB-C. Its minimalist, mushroom-shaped design immediately catches the eye. What’s particularly useful is that the lamp can be mounted at two different heights and is operated using a pull chain. Made of metal, it can withstand a lot.
One small disadvantage is from a visual perspective. The combined use of aluminium and plastic could feel a bit cold and office-like in the garden.
Source: STT
3. Scandi flair for outdoors
Making tripping hazards visible – this is what the Justina outdoor wall light from Nordlux is for. It’s a real eye-catcher and illuminates your house walls without being too bright. What’s practical is the integrated motion detector that reacts to footsteps within a radius of five to eight metres and switches the light on automatically. The permanently installed LED is energy-efficient (only five watts) and lasts up to 25,000 hours.
The Justina wall light is permanently mounted – that means it’ll take a bit of effort, but then you have peace of mind. Although it’s protected against splash water and dust thanks to IP44, it’s best to protect it from direct rain under a gutter or similar canopy.
Source: Nordlux
4. In the spotlight
The Markab garden light provides a warm white light with 3000 K. It illuminates the floor without blinding you – good as a signpost or accent on the table. Fully charged, it lasts up to eight hours.
Sure, even the sun needs a break sometimes. On grey days, the duration may be slightly shorter. And be careful in heavy rain, because with IP44, it’s only partially splash-proof. The LED light is permanently installed and can’t be replaced, but with around five hours of use per day, it’ll easily last for over eleven years.
Source: Schönenberger
5. Retro charm
The Temple 30 ToGo outdoor wall light relies entirely on solar energy. It’s made of brass, which gives it a sophisticated look and makes it robust at the same time. Thanks to protection class IP54, it has moderate protection against dust and water. The integrated LED technology provides you with bright, efficient light.
The brass frame develops a patina over time. This means that a matt or greenish film will appear, creating a vintage vibe. If you prefer the shiny look, all you need to do is polish it from time to time. This also applies to the silver model.
Source: Nordlux
6. For a relaxed summer flair
The solar garden light from the Scandinavian label Cane-line won’t go unnoticed with its relaxed wickerwork design and stylish touch. It comes in many colours and has an LED solar module that you can charge with solar energy or via USB-C cable.
Something also worth noting: you can use the remote control to change the lighting modes – but only for the corresponding lamp, not for several at the same time. And as beautiful as the wickerwork may be, dirt and dust can accumulate in the gaps over time. This makes cleaning a little more time-consuming.
Source: Cane-line
7. Interchangeable elements
Also from the north comes the Light No.1 from the Danish brand Houe. You can stand it upright, place it upside down on the table or hang it up using the loop provided. Thanks to the three warm, adjustable light intensities, you can match it to your mood. Light No.1 is charged via sunlight or the accompanying USB-C cable.
At 199 francs, it’s definitely one of the more expensive models. And although it’s robust (IP65 protection), you should take good care of it so that the elements don’t take their toll on the pretty design.
Source: Houe
8. Rope art
With its mix of nutmeg-coloured aluminium, Duratek teak and chic rope, the Rop&Strip solar table lamp is a real eye-catcher. Its smart solar module automatically adjusts the light intensity to its surroundings. And charging? Easy. Either in the sun or via USB-C cable. Thanks to IP55 protection, it can even withstand rain showers and dust.
But of course, the price of 257 francs is quite the talking point. A table lamp you’ll have to dig a little deeper into your pocket for.
Source: Les Jardins
9. Floating light with style
The white linen shade of this Globo pendant light almost looks like a classic paper shade. Fully charged, it lasts up to eight hours. It’s easily controlled via an on/off switch. The 11 LEDs with 1800K create an atmospheric light which is ideal for the dining table or lounge corner.
The canvas shade and IP44 protection class are clear indicators that it’s more suitable in a covered, sheltered place. And yes, you’ll need a branch, hook or something similar to hang it up. What’s more, this is the most expensive lantern model. It costs almost 400 francs.
Source: Globo
Header image: Cane-line
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
Garden
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
Lighting
Follow topics and stay updated on your areas of interest
3 comments
later