It’s been three years since we moved into our home and one year since we did our exterior renovation, but there are still a few outside updates to make. One of those is replacing the front porch lights. They are so massive — I’ve never had such big lights!! They came with the house, and I’m ready for something new.

Outdoor lanterns are more than just aesthetic — they can enhance the property value, affect visibility and extend your outdoor living space. I really like an exterior fixture to have multiple little lights in it. It feels more magical to have those flame bulbs alight.

I have my eye on some that I’ll share below, but first! A quick real talk about the two types of lanterns.

Electric or Gas Lanterns?

We took an anniversary trip down to New Orleans around 2018 and saw all of these gas-lit porch lights — almost every home there had one! I said to Chris, “This is the most charming thing that I’ve ever seen. I love this. I need this.” So in our last house, we installed a beautiful one from Bevolo. While your gas bill is gonna go up slightly (it’s around $10-12 per month if they’re on all the time), gas lanterns really do create such a historic vibe.

Lantern Pendants (similar) | Pergola | Barstools | Dining Table | Dining Chairs | Dining Arm Chairs | Marble Bowl | Faux Artichokes

I’m glad we got to experience gas lighting at our last house — it’s very magical. This time around, I think I’m going with electricity for ease and the ability to increase the brightness. (And actually our Bevolo lights could have been wired for electric too!) To keep that cozy feeling, I usually go a little warmer on the outside bulb temperature. It just really looks harsh to see a daylight-style bulb outside. My go-to is 2700K outside. It’s the perfect moody, traditional vibe.

See what I’m eyeing below and let me know your favorites!

1. Arched Outdoor Sconce | $359
2. Howa Outdoor Hanging Lantern | $108
3. Calistoga Indoor/Outdoor Sconce | $299
4. Galena Outdoor Wall Light | $261
5. Piedmont 4 Light Lantern | $364
6. Valencia Sconce | $399
7. Rosedale Hanging Lantern | $959
8. Wellsworth Lantern | $352
9. Darlana Outdoor 3/4 Lantern | $1099
10. Brass Outdoor Lantern | $94
11. Black Lantern Wall Light | $49
12. Caleb Outdoor Metal Lantern | $249