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Pia’s Picks: eternal flames

Candles in jars, ceramic pots or concrete cups are little highlights. Once the wax has melted, they turn into espresso cups or find another useful existence.

I have a soft spot for wax sculptures, and yet they eventually need to go. Once they’ve burnt down after a few hours, I’m left with nothing but a puny stub. With a bit of luck and some other bits of leftover wax, I can make a pretty nice new candle, but that’s it. That’s why I’ve become a fan of candles in recyclable containers. They give me twice the joy.

As soon as the flame goes out, I remove the remaining wax and can’t help but wonder: «What will become of you? Will you serve me my daily espresso or be the keeper of my toothbrush?» To make this decision easier, I usually base it on the material. If the container is made of ceramic or terracotta, I give it a second life as a plant pot for small cacti. If it’s glass, it becomes a vase, candle pot or drinking glass. If it has a lid, I turn it into a storage container for jewellery, office supplies or spices. Or I use the lid as a coaster, provided it’s made of cork or rattan wicker.

What also helps me decide what to turn the container into is its design. Depending on the colour or pattern, it will suit one room better than another one. In any case, they’re bound to shine even without a flame. Especially if it’s one of these models you’re dealing with.

Stripes

Striped containers have a similar effect to maritime patterns in fashion. They’re timeless, always work and can also be a great way to intentionally clash with the overall style of the room.

More than just hot air: How a «Stripe» candle can become an espresso cup.
More than just hot air: How a «Stripe» candle can become an espresso cup.
Source: Hay
Balthasar Citronella candle terracotta (1 pcs.)
Candles

Balthasar Citronella candle terracotta

1 pcs.

Paddywax Al Fresco 12Oz Toupe Glass Candle Rosemary Sea Salt (340 g)
Scented candles
CHF26.70

Paddywax Al Fresco 12Oz Toupe Glass Candle Rosemary Sea Salt

340 g

Balthasar Citronella candle terracotta (1 pcs.)

Balthasar Citronella candle terracotta

Paddywax Al Fresco 12Oz Toupe Glass Candle Rosemary Sea Salt (340 g)
CHF26.70

Paddywax Al Fresco 12Oz Toupe Glass Candle Rosemary Sea Salt

Tactile patterns

Be it ribbed or perforated – textures subtly decorate and blend into any setting.

This ceramic pot with lines representing the sunrise makes for a great spice or flower pot.
This ceramic pot with lines representing the sunrise makes for a great spice or flower pot.
Source: Paddywax
Paddywax Dune 8Oz Terracotta Ceramic Cactus Flower & Aloe (226 g)
Scented candles

Paddywax Dune 8Oz Terracotta Ceramic Cactus Flower & Aloe

226 g

Paddywax Santorini 8.5Oz Pink Ceramic Black Fig & Olive (240 g)
Scented candles

Paddywax Santorini 8.5Oz Pink Ceramic Black Fig & Olive

240 g

Multicoloured

Containers with motifs, messages and effect glazes really pop. Accordingly, you should give them a place where they can be seen.

This palazzo-inspired porcelain container is a statement piece and could become a miniature vase.
This palazzo-inspired porcelain container is a statement piece and could become a miniature vase.
Source: Ginori 1735

*In my regular «Pia’s Picks» series, I share items from my watch list that you might like too.

Header image: Ginori 1735

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Like 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.


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