A votive candle is a small candle designed to be placed inside a holder. Votive holders can be made from a range of different materials, but glass and crystal allow the light from the candle to become part of the design.
Transparency, colour, texture and form can all influence the ambiance of the candle. The relationship between light and material is essential to how we at Kosta Boda are designing our different votives.
Why Glass and Crystal Work for Votives so well
When a votive is lit, the material becomes part of the experience, rather than simply holding the candle. Glass and crystal allow light to move through the material, while texture, colour and form influence how that light is reflected.
Snowball is an example of this symbiosis between glass, texture and light. Designed by Ann Wolff, the votive has been part of Kosta Boda’s collection since 1973 and has since become one of our most recognisable designs.
The Rock takes a more sculptural approach, with its irregular surface and bold colours, while Happy takes a more sleek design, bringing together simple forms with both coloured and clear glass.
These different designs together shows how much expression can come from a small glass object. The material does more than hold the candlelight. It shapes how light, colour and form come together.
How to Style Votives
Let Colour Become Part of the Setting
When deciding the colours, materials and overall look consider the character of the space. Clear votives can blend naturally into a setting, while coloured glass can become part of the overall ambiance. Pink votives can add a warmer touch, while blue votives can create a completely different expression.
Create Interest Through Variation
Votives do not need to look identical to work well together. Combining different shapes, sizes or colours can make a setting feel more curated and interesting. Pairing more expressive pieces with simpler forms can create contrast, while combining different colours can give the arrangement a more personal character.
Bring Candlelight Outdoors
Votives can also follow the dinner table outdoors. Their glass holders offer some protection from a light breeze, making them well suited to outdoor dining. Placed among tableware, flowers or other elements, they bring candlelight to an evening outdoors.
Small in Size, Big in Possibility
Votives are a simple way to bring personality and character into a setting. They are also perfect for gifts. Their small size makes it easy to experiment with different colours, shapes and combinations, allowing you to try different styles until you find what feels right for you and your home.
There is not a single way to use votives. Mix colours, combine different forms, or use them for other things than candles, or keep things simple. Small in size, votives can have a big impact on the feeling of a space.
