This weekend's delightfully warm weather in Boston got us daydreaming about our annual primping session for our back porch. In the past we've used white Christmas lights to add some romance to the porch at night, but the idea of using the sun's power to create some mood lighting holds much more appeal. These lovely solar lanterns are available in 3 styles (more pictures below the jump)...
We spotted these lanterns over at Style Saves the World. The lanterns, which measure 9" x 9", are available in three patterns: Pure White, Pearl Motif (white with white floral pattern) and Mineral Motif (white with grey floral pattern).
Admittedly, we are a little confused by the fact that the lanterns require a AAA rechargeable battery. I guess they're not entirely solar powered? Hmm.
Each lantern is $39.99 and available at Allsop Home & Garden.
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"Admittedly, we are a little confused by the fact that the lanterns require a AAA rechargeable battery. I guess they're not entirely solar powered? Hmm."
The little solar panels on the top generate electricity, but they don't store it. The electricity from the solar panel recharges the AAA battery. Any solar light will have batteries inside.
Having the battery be replaceable is actually a good design - rechargables have a limited life, so when they stop holding a charge you can just replace them.
view ChzPlz's profile
Does Le Klint realize their 172 lamp is being copied?
view Monica's profile
I fired off an email to Le Klint pointing them to the product. It appears to be a Chinese knockoff. Considering Le Klint has protected their designs aggressively before, I give it about 6 months until this thing disappears.
And the reason the Le Klint's are so pricey is that they are folded by hand... worth saving up for.
view Jason's profile
Well then, I better hurry up and buy a couple of these before they take action on your email...
view farleece's profile
These look similar to the ones in the new IKEA outdoor living catalogue (I don't have a link, but it was posted on AT within the past week or so).
I'm always skeptical about these solar power lights. The ones I've seen in my neighbourhood shine SO dimly and aren't practical at all.
view nerdnik's profile
Thanks for doing that Jason! I have the large 172 over my dining room table and I ADORE it! They're definitely works of art. I've always wished that there was a video somewhere showing how the fold them...that would be so cool.
view Monica's profile
Yeah, I guess the rest of us who can't save up $300 for a single lamp just aren't entitled to nice things.
I think if you are seriously offended by a knockoff you should evaluate why you need the original designer item in the first place.
I doubt this will take away sales from the original Le Klint lamp, much like I don't think Ikea's "Docksta" table is taking away business from stores selling Saarinen tulip tables.
view inertia's profile