Lenny Kravitz embodies the kind of effortless cool that's impossible to copy; it's in his essence. Though we can't become the musician, his latest collection for CB2 provides pieces that tap into his penchant for layered global style and offer insight into what Lenny is currently coveting, making his design sensibilities feel slightly more attainable.
Among the most accessible looks in the collection is a grouping of stunning rice paper lanterns. Lenny's stunning lamps draw on 2026 lighting trends, combining classic Japanese-inspired shades with marble and chrome accents. As is to be expected, they look ultra-luxe, and ultra-cool.
Rice paper lamps are timeless and delicate in their design, and this iteration follows suit with its stainless steel wire frame and marble base. It's the epitome of the International Design aesthetic Lenny is referencing with this collection.
The best part of this style is that it is utterly timeless. Though Lenny Kravitz gave the paper lantern a new spin, he didn't invent it. The most classic silhouette of the retro lighting style is based on the 'Akari Light Sculpture,' an innovation designed by the Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi in 1951. He took inspiration from the traditional Gifu paper lanterns used by Japanese fishermen, perfecting a range of handcrafted lights.
Thus, similar paper lanterns are still considered a timeless staple of mid-century modern design. Luckily, that means that similar products are available to shop at a range of price points from diverse retailers. Here are a few of our favorites.
Shop the Rice Paper Lamp Edit
This paper lamp is quite small at just 9.8" x 9.8". However, its soft and glowing light output can make a big impact in your room. It assembles easily – simply unfold the rice paper shade, attach the metal base, and plug in the cord to light it up. To turn it on and off, a switch is attached to its power cord.
If you're looking for something with more height, this paper lamp is for you. It stands roughly 43" tall, making this lamp an ideal size to place in your living room next to a chair or couch. Its shade is made from traditional Japanese rice paper that diffuses light softly, creating an ambient glow throughout a room. Plus, its subtle wood rim provides a sleek and stylish contrast from the white paper shade. This light has two light outputs – warm yellow and bright white.
If you love the look of paper lamps, but would prefer one that hangs from the ceiling, this pick is for you. This rice paper pendant features an adjustable cord that can extend up to 98". Its shade is 23.6" in diameter and could make for a perfect choice to hang above a dining table or in a living room. Although a bulb is not included with this light, it's compatible with E26 base bulbs. Just like other paper lamps, this pendant can create a warm glow in a room.
Contrary to most rice paper lamps, this one features an elongated shade which makes it look elegant and stylish. This lamp stands about 59" tall, and features a long cord with a foot switch for convenient operation. You can choose between bright white light and warm yellow light, depending on your mood and the atmosphere you'd like to create. And since its shade is so slim, this lamp would be great for a smaller space.
Meet the cure for a dead corner: this rice paper–clad beauty casts a soft, ambient glow without stealing focus. At just 31.5 inches tall, it’s best styled with a taller floor lamp for a layered, sculptural scene.
This incredibly functional and practical floor lamp is made of porcelain, metal, wood, and rice paper. It casts a comfortable warm light around the room in a stylish shape.
The paper lantern is one of the most timeless lighting ideas on the market. As trends change, it will transform, but never fully go away.
