Today I’m popping in to share a bit about a favorite design feature I see often all throughout Old Town. It’s a design feature that beautifully complements all the gorgeous historic architecture here — and that design feature is: outdoor gas lighting✨! That warm glow of flickering light up and down the brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets create such a beautiful ambience. I can’t help but just love the vibe it creates, especially at night! A small upgrade with a big impact, if you’d like to achieve the same effect right at home, today I’m sharing some helpful tips to get you in the right direction.
A Guide to Gas Lanterns
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Gas Lanterns vs. Electric Lanterns
If you’re just starting to look into gas lighting, you might be wondering some of the ways it differs from electric lighting. For starters, the most obvious way (and the reason you’re likely still curious to learn more), aesthetics! If you’re after a uniquely nostalgic look…something that catches your eye at the flicker of a light, gas lighting may be just for you! In working with clients, I’ve always found aesthetics to be the #1 reason gas lighting is chosen. Sure, there are a few other positives, but for the most part, it’s really the look and feel that drives the decision.
A few other perks of gas lighting that may or may not sway your decision:
- Gas lights require no electrical line (not to state the obvious!). When the power goes out, the gas lanterns stay on. On the other hand, since gas lighting requires a gas line, that can be an added expense.
- There is no need to ever change a bulb, there is less glare, and gas lighting tends to emit a softer more subtle light.
- Insects are typically not drawn to gas lighting in the same way they’re drawn to electric bulbs.
Bevolo Lighting
When it comes to brands, Bevolo is without a doubt the gold standard of gas lighting and my top recommendation. Not only is their quality fantastic, but so is their customer support. If you’re puzzled with placement and style decisions, Bevolo can assist. Their complimentary design service helps take the guesswork out of decision making. Just send your house plans over to their team and they will make fixture recommendations based on your plans and the overall style of your home. Choosing fixtures and sizing them properly can be a daunting process. This service is a game changer!
A few other ways Bevolo goes above and beyond:
- All products are American made. All of their fixtures are handmade right in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
- They offer customizations. Though they specialize in copper lanterns specifically, they can make certain fixtures in stainless steel if requested. They can also adjust sizing and more.
- They have a patented burner featuring the most energy-efficient flame in the world. The unique batwing flame provides a bigger and brighter glow and most importantly it’s specifically designed to stay lit and not easily blow out (some brands surprisingly fall short in this regard). They also use extra safety measures. With a patented tip on their flame to prevent excessive gas flow or an unsafe flame height, you can rest assured the safety of their products won’t be cause for concern.
- Their craftsmanship is unmatched. All glass is tempered. Weather & heat resistant brackets come standard. They use pure, sustainable copper and fixtures are hand riveted.
Recommendations
No 1. Williamsburg
A Virginia heritage piece, the Williamsburg can be seen all throughout Old Town (it perfectly matches all the colonial row homes here!). It comes in a variety of sizes, mounting options and with or without the stack.
No 2. French Quarter
Inspired by the French Quarter of New Orleans, if you’re looking for a little French flair, look no further than the French Quarter collection. Not only is the Williamsburg popular in Old Town, but this fixture is too. It’s a very transitional fixture, so it works well with a variety of architectural styles. It also compliments the Williamsburg very well!
P.S. The French Quarter Yoke makes an amazing statement. If you have a front porch or an outdoor walkway, the yoke is just stunning. Pair it with the Williamsburg flush mount and you’ll have the perfect pairing!
No. 3. Governer
Another popular colonial fixture, if you’re after a stately look, the Governer may appeal to you most (or it may just be the best fit for your space). Due to its tall and narrow (yet somewhat heavy) appearance, it complements French doors and columns in particular very well. Though I do not see this fixture as often as I the Williamsburg and French Quarter, it’s certainly a fit for a colonial home if there is the proper space for placement!
No 4. London Street
Though I don’t see the London Street much in Old Town, it definitely has charm! Lots of British charm! It’s more common in parts of New England. If you have a Tudor or English style home, this would be a great fit.
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