An outdoor space that is rich in harmonious energy is typically built around a balance of elements. And a beautiful way to channel the fire element is by decorating with garden lanterns.
In garden Feng Shui, this type of lighting gently brightens dark corners and stimulates positive energy. "Fire symbolizes warmth, visibility and joy," says Feng Shui consultant Zoë Vita James. "The gentle glow of lanterns instinctively encourages us to slow down, gather together and enjoy our homes."
To truly harness the uplifting vibe of garden lanterns, here's what to consider when choosing one and where to place them, too.
Why Are Garden Lanterns Good Feng Shui?
"With so much going on in the world today, creating a comforting and nurturing outdoor sanctuary to enjoy balmy evenings that soothe your soul before the day draws to a close feels more important than ever. In Feng Shui, softly glowing lanterns can help transform a garden into a space that feels peaceful and restorative," says Zoë Vita James.
"From a design perspective, I tend to favor lanterns with soft, sculptural or rounded forms rather than very angular or industrial designs. They exude a gentler, more feminine feeling and sit beautifully with nature."
These smoother silhouettes will also help you avoid poison arrows when you're lounging in the glow of these lanterns. And when it comes to choosing a garden lantern, Zoë tells me that materials also matter.
"Glass, wicker, timber and ceramics often create a softer, more harmonious feeling outdoors. Heavily metallic lanterns can sometimes feel a little stark — allowing the glowing flame to be the star of the show."
Where Do You Place Garden Lanterns for Good Feng Shui?
In classical Feng Shui, Zoë explains that the ideal location for garden lighting is always personal to the property and considers the orientation of the home, the surrounding landscape, and the current flow of annual energies.
Although the South of your garden is typically considered the best space for garden lanterns, in 2026, the year of the fire horse, she is encouraging clients to keep the South sector of their homes and gardens relatively quiet and free from additional fire energy, including lanterns and decorative lighting.
"If your seating area falls within the South of your garden (measured from the geometric centre of your home), I generally suggest moving lanterns slightly either side into the South-East or South-West instead," she says.
"The South-East is a particularly supportive area this year and can be beautifully activated with an abundance of lanterns to encourage prosperity, joy and inspiring opportunities."
Pair this dreamily classic lantern with these Rustic Pillar Candles from ÉDITÉ for your next evening outdoors.
A cool extension of the unexpected red theory, this mesh metal lantern is a nice way to make your al fresco design pop.
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There's something so romantic about these Pedestal Wood Lanterns from West Elm. J'obsessed!
I love the idea of styling these metal outdoor lanterns by a garden ledge or near the door to your indoor space.
If your garden's foliage is the centre of attention and you want your lighting to simply accentuate the space, I recommend this laid-back style.
This Cashmere Abri Lantern is just the kind of indoor-outdoor decor that will never go out of style.
If you're looking for a way to light up your outdoor coffee table, these lanterns from nkuku have that lived-in look everyone's after.
Dunelm's Touch Dimmable Outdoor Lantern looks great propped on the floor or hung from a wall, too.
Another way to soothe the ambiance of your garden is through aquatic features. And it's equally important to know where to place a water feature for good Feng Shui. For more advice on designing for better interior energy, sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.
