Altar at Home candle
Brief description of the project
The Altar at Home candle is created in a unique proportion that has no analogues in the world. The candle measures 190 cm in length and 5 cm in diameter, and its burn time is approximately 300 hours, or 12 days. Altar at Home embodies calm, balance, a sense of warmth and festive celebration, while simultaneously functioning as a sculptural design object. Its production goes beyond simple wax casting — the candle is made in three phases, built up in layers to achieve the required proportions, structural stability, and burn aesthetics. It is complemented by a custom stainless steel stand that allows precise vertical alignment.
Originality and creativity of the idea
The aim was to «lift» the candle above the ground not through an external pedestal, but through the candle itself—to redefine the essence of the candle so that it becomes present and creates a sense of «wow» for the viewer. Slightly taller than the average human height, it becomes a personal object within a space. By its diameter-to-length proportions, this is the only candle of its kind in the world.
Definition of the problem and the relevance of the applied solutions
Through intensive testing of wax materials, wicks and finishing techniques, numerous new possibilities for creating such a product were discovered. To achieve the desired result and quality, simple wax casting was insufficient. Instead, each candle is produced in three phases. The first phase involves casting different waxes in precise proportions into a custom mould. The second phase is demoulding and processing the blank. In the third, final phase, the blank is repeatedly dipped into wax at a precisely controlled temperature to build up the final layer, one coat at a time. This process achieves the candle’s relative rigidity despite its exceptional length, as well as its burn aesthetics. Numerous challenges were addressed, related to structural stability, pigmentation, the selection of a special wick, flame size and behaviour, visual qualities, and the overall burn duration.
Co-creation, stakeholder involvement and cooperation during the realisation process
The creation of this product involves approximately nine different companies, ranging from wax suppliers and metal component manufacturers to packaging experts and others. Overall, the response from all parties involved has been highly positive, as the product is both unique and technically challenging, making it engaging for each partner and resulting in maximum commitment to its development and quality.
Functionality and technological solutions
The candle stand is made of brushed stainless steel. It is adjustable within approximately five degrees on the vertical axis using built-in regulators. The candle itself is 190 cm long and 5 cm in diameter, with a burn time of around 300 hours, or 12 days. Technologically, the candle can be produced in various colours, but at present two colours have been developed—black and white.
Aesthetics and other experiential dimensions
In an interior, the candle stands out through its uniqueness and presence. Its texture is silky matte, and the flame length is approximately 7 cm, intentionally designed to be longer than that of standard candles. A dedicated stainless steel stand has been created specifically for this candle. It can be adjusted to a precisely vertical position and is tailored exactly to the candle’s diameter. Stainless steel was chosen because the material is brushed and retains its inherent aesthetic without the need for painting or additional surface treatment. The stand is designed to hold the candle securely and stably, while remaining aesthetically refined and deliberately neutral.
Economic significance, sustainability and circularity
To create this product, collaboration is carried out exclusively with companies registered in Latvia. In the production process, there is essentially no material waste—everything is reused. For example, if a defective product occurs, it can be 100% recycled into a new product while maintaining the same quality. The product is export-ready and is already being sold outside Latvia.
Social relevance, inclusion, availability and accessibility
«Altar at Home» is accessible to everyone, provided that its usage instructions are followed. Safety is, of course, a priority, so particular attention must be paid in households with small children and animals, but usage and maintenance are similar to most candles, with a few specific requirements, such as the mandatory levelling of the stand.
