Decorating small rooms can be tricky. You probably don’t have expansive surfaces to work with, and some smaller homes might not even have fireplaces or mantels to style for the seasons or holidays. I’d guess the surfaces you do have are likely reserved for functional décor, like lamps, and “cluttering” them up with extra stuff probably isn’t at the top of your must-have list.

But what if I told you that there’s an easy way to bring that cozy ambience to your space without adding unnecessary clutter? Battery-operated pillar candles are perfect for adding height, light, and personality to small spaces where real flame candles aren’t an option—think enclosed glass cabinets, floating shelves, or open shelving units. (You certainly wouldn’t light a candle in a spot that could catch fire, right?) With battery operated candles you don’t have to worry about that! Even better, they can be tucked up high, or in awkward spaces that you can’t get to easily because many have remotes that allow you to turn them on and off whenever you want!

I love their realistic flame, and 3 staggered height candles are ALWAYS a great way to create depth and interest in any decorating style. (Decorators and designers often use this kind of grouping, called “the rule of 3’s,” to create small focal points in curated collections.)

My go-to source for flameless candles is Seasonal LLC, and their classic motion 3-piece candle set is a beautiful addition to my décor for Christmas and all year round. They have a realistic flame that flickers just like a real flame, and you can change the light intensity for whatever mood you want like soft and romantic, or bright and cheery. Best of all, they come with a remote that syncs the candles so they can be turned on and off manually or set to a timer to turn off automatically.

So, my point about why I love these kinds of décor is that they can enhance small, tricky spaces by adding instant character and dynamism, and they’ll add a bit of moody light too!

Now, to make things even more interesting, I want to talk about how you can add them to ANY decorating style. To prove that let’s talk about 5 of the top emerging aesthetic decorating styles of 2025 so you’ll be ready to go with a new cozy, inviting vignette as the clock strikes 12 on December 31st.

Aesthetic 1: Artisan Craftsmanship- Handmade Items and Unique Details

Style Definition: Artisan craftsmanship is all about embracing handmade, bespoke pieces that speak to your individuality. It’s an eclectic style that often uses rich textures, earthy colors, and one-of-a-kind finds to make your space feel unique and curated. It’s perfect for small spaces because it thrives on personal touches, that can turn even the tiniest rooms into something special.

How to Use Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Here:

To enhance the artisan aesthetic, group your battery-operated pillar candles at different heights, inside open shelving or glass cabinets. Your candles can be paired with unique ceramic pots, handwoven baskets, and artisanal textiles like throw blankets or pillows. By placing the candles alongside these handcrafted items, you'll create a warm, welcoming glow that highlights the imperfections and beauty of your hand-made décor.

Example:

On a floating shelf, stagger a few pillar candles between handmade wooden sculptures and woven baskets. The warm light from the candles will emphasize the natural textures of the materials, adding a soft, ambient glow that complements the earthy tones of your space.

Aesthetic 2: Maximalism- Bold, Vibrant, and Unapologetically Lush

Style Definition: Maximalism is the opposite of minimalism, embracing a "more is more" philosophy. It can feature bold patterns, vibrant colors, and a blend of diverse textures. In small spaces, maximalism works by layering color and décor to create depth and a sense of personality. It works best in small spaces where there is a theme to carry through, like a collection of like items based on color or the composition of items. Think in terms of a collection of glass or crystal décor, for example. The composition of clear crystal items, regardless of shape or category, is theme that carries through.

How to Use Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Here:

Your battery-operated pillar candles can be used to add dramatic contrast to your maximalist design. Place them on open shelves next to vibrant books, colorful art, or statement pieces. The flickering light from these candles will draw attention to your eclectic elements, creating a layered, dynamic feel without taking up space needlessly.

Example:

Place a set of varying-height candles on an open shelf filled with a mix of bold artworks, vintage trinkets, and vibrant plants. The candles will add an extra layer of warmth and shine against the colorful chaos, creating a cozy yet energetic vibe.

Aesthetic 3: Minimalist- Clean, Simple, and Calming

Style Definition: Minimalism focuses on simplicity and functionality. The design is sleek, often focusing on neutral tones, clean lines, and clutter-free spaces. For small homes, minimalism helps maintain a sense of order and tranquility by using only essential décor and prioritizing open space.

How to Use Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Here:

In minimalist spaces, battery-operated candles might serve as elegant yet subtle sources of light. Place them in small glass cabinets or on a narrow shelf to create pockets of soft light without distracting you from the clean lines of your other furniture. For context, simple, neutral candle holders that blend seamlessly with your space are an excellent choice.

Example:

A single, tall pillar candle placed on a glass shelf next to a minimalist vase or modern art piece can provide a tranquil, serene look. This simple touch can transform your small space by introducing a gentle, ambient glow that doesn’t compete with the room’s clean aesthetic.

Aesthetic 4: Industrial Style- Raw, Urban, and Functional

Style Definition: Industrial style draws inspiration from factories and warehouses, often using time worn materials like metal, wood, and brick. The look is urban and functional, perfect for small spaces with high ceilings or open layouts.

How to Use Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Here:

They’ll fit perfectly in industrial styled rooms, especially when you want to soften the raw edges of exposed brick or metal. Use them on metal or reclaimed wood shelves to create a warm contrast to the cold, hard pieces in your room. A nice way to tie in would be to choose candles with a rustic design or ones in dark colors to match those industrial vibes.

Example:

On an industrial-style shelving unit, place staggered-height pillar candles in a metal candle holder next to a collection of vintage tools or old worn books. The combination of the flickering light and the raw materials will create a cozy, inviting feel that’s still distinctly industrial.

Aesthetic 5: Biophilic Design- Nature-Inspired and Tranquil

Style Definition: Biophilic design connects interiors with nature, using natural things like wood, stone, plants, and light to create a peaceful, restorative home. It works well in small spaces because it makes the room feel totally connected to the outside world.

How to Use Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Here:

In a biophilic space, battery-operated pillar candles can be placed on shelves near lush green plants or natural wood furniture. The soft, flickering light will enhance the tranquil, natural vibe of your room, creating a serene space perfect for relaxing or winding down.

Example:

Pair a group of different height pillar candles on a shelf surrounded by leafy houseplants and wooden accents, like sculptural decor pieces or decorative boxes. The soft, glowing light will mimic the warmth of sunlight, creating a serene, nature-inspired atmosphere that complements the organic parts of your décor.

Why Battery-Operated Pillar Candles Work in Small Spaces

No matter what your decorating style is, a set of these candles are the perfect solution for small spaces. They’ll add ambiance without needing lots of space or special installations. Much like I’ve shown here, they can be adapted to fit any room, creating a cozy, aesthetic vibe that doesn’t overwhelm your space. They’re safe, easy to use, and allow for endless customization, making them an ideal choice for you to create a unique, functional, and beautiful vignette in even the tiniest of rooms.

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“Michael Helwig was top-notch, very professional and responsive to my needs. He allowed me time to explore ideas and try out a variety of combinations until we found the perfect fit. Michael provided detailed information and offered beautiful ideas to make my dream living room become a reality. The furniture he sourced has totally transformed my living room space. Everyone that has seen my new living room has one word, WOW! A special thank you to Michael for a wonderful experience.”

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Michael is Principal designer and blogger at Michael Helwig Interiors in beautiful Buffalo, New York. Since 2011, he’s a space planning expert, offering online interior e-design services for folks living in small homes, or for those with awkward and tricky layouts. He’s a frequent expert contributor to many National media publications and news outlets on topics related to decorating, interior design, diy projects, and more. Michael happily shares his experience to help folks avoid expensive mistakes and decorating disappointments. You can follow him on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook @interiorsmh.