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Bespoke
Bespoke lanterns are for projects that require a unique decorative fixture or a modified existing design. These handcrafted lanterns make an important aesthetic statement, enhancing entrances, gateways and outdoor living areas both day and night. Our process involves design, documentation, fabrication by skilled artisans and assembly to create lanterns that meet a specific brief. Each piece is unique – small variations in dimensions and finish are an inherent characteristic of the handmade process.
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Specifying Bespoke lanterns
We manage the process of bespoke lantern design and fabrication for professional landscape and architectural projects. This service is intended for applications where standard products are unsuitable or where a specific decorative statement is required.
Primary applications
Bespoke lanterns provide diffuse illumination in key circulation and gathering areas:
- Entrances and gateways
Creating a welcoming statement at front entries and property entrances.
Porticos and passageways
Illuminating covered walkways and transitional spaces. - Outdoor dining locations
Providing ambient light for alfresco entertaining areas. - Courtyards and terraces
Where decorative fixtures contribute to the overall design aesthetic.
Mounting & configuration options
Bespoke lanterns can be configured for various mounting applications:
- Pendant (hanging)
Suspended from ceilings, pergola beams or decorative wall-mounted brackets. - Wall-Mounted
Fixed directly to walls or facades. - Pillar-Mounted
Mounted on top of posts, piers or gate pillars. - Floor Lanterns
Unpowered floor lanterns are available for traditional or battery powered candles where electrical cabling is not possible or where movable lighting is desirable.
The Bespoke process
Collaboration is central to the process. We work with architects, designers and builders to move from an initial idea to a finished lantern.
- Initial brief
We review your concepts, architectural drawings (CAD), or reference images to understand the design intent, scale and required aesthetic. - Concept & documentation
We develop detailed shop drawings and specifications. Physical samples of glass and finish options are available for review at our showroom. - Fabrication
Bespoke lanterns are handmade by skilled artisans and working with specialist local fabricators in Melbourne. Small variations in dimensions and finish are inherent to the handmade process and make each lantern unique. - Delivery & support
Lanterns are assembled, quality checked and delivered to site with clear documentation for your electrician.
Materials & Finishes
Bespoke lanterns are primarily constructed from solid brass, with a range of finish options:
- Natural Brass
Develops a rich patina over time. - Dark Oxide
A darker, aged finish that continues to mellow naturally. - Custom Finishes
Available on request to match specific project requirements.
Glass options
Glass panels can be specified in various styles to control light quality and aesthetic:
- Clear or beveled
- Textured or translucent opaque
- Coloured glass (on request)
We hold a wide range of glass samples and finish examples at our Armadale showroom for review.
Technical & System Requirements
Bespoke lanterns are normally wired for 240V mains power, though low-voltage wiring can be arranged on request. While these lanterns are not typically IP rated, they are designed and constructed to prevent water, dust and insects from entering or collecting within the fixture. All wiring and installation must be completed by a licensed electrician. Lamps are replaceable, supporting long-term serviceability and maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bespoke' actually mean?
For us, ‘bespoke’ means designing and fabricating a completely new decorative lantern from scratch to meet your brief. It can also mean significantly modifying one of our existing lantern designs – for example, changing the scale, glass type, finish, or mounting configuration.
What is the lead time for a bespoke fixture?
Lead times are substantial because each lantern is handmade to order. If we don’t have a particular lantern in stock, allow 16-20 weeks from the date of order and payment to delivery. This timeline accounts for design approval, material sourcing, handcrafted fabrication and finishing.
Can you modify an existing product?
Yes. This is a common request. We can alter dimensions, change glass specifications, specify different finishes, or modify mounting configurations for our existing lantern designs to better suit a project.
Are unpowered lanterns available?
Yes. We offer bespoke floor lanterns designed for battery-powered LED candles. These are ideal for outdoor terraces and pool lounge areas where electrical cabling is not possible or where you want the flexibility to move the lanterns around. They provide atmospheric lighting without requiring fixed wiring.
What information do you need from me to start?
A clear brief is the best starting point. This should include any architectural drawings or CAD files, reference images or sketches of the desired aesthetic, the mounting type and location, and any material or finish preferences. Site photos are helpful for understanding context and scale.
Can I see samples of the materials and finishes?
Yes. We hold a wide range of glass samples and examples of finishes at our Armadale showroom. We strongly recommend reviewing physical samples before finalising your specification, particularly for brass finishes and glass types
Are the lamps replaceable?
Yes. All our bespoke lanterns use replaceable lamps, which is essential for long-term serviceability and maintenance. This aligns with our commitment to longevity and sustainable design practices.
Can you create fixtures for coastal environments?
Yes. For coastal or marine applications, we specify materials with high corrosion resistance, such as 316 marine-grade stainless steel, solid brass or solid copper.
Please refer to our Portsea project for information on a bespoke pendant light designed for an exposed coastal environment.
Will the brass finish change over time?
Yes. Natural brass and dark oxide finishes will continue to mellow and darken with age, developing a natural patina. This ongoing transformation is an important feature of the lanterns’ uniqueness and beauty, rather than a defect. The character deepens over years of exposure to the elements.