Whether you love a flashy, crystal-covered fixture or a more modern variation, chandeliers inject drama and personality into any space. Inherently statement pieces, these lighting fixtures can make dining rooms, bathrooms, entryways, and living spaces feel appreciably more luxurious. But considering the delicate and often hefty nature of chandeliers, the idea of hanging one can feel intimidating. There are tons of questions abound: how big should your chandelier be? How high should you hang it? And, where? Learn how to pick the right chandelier for you in this handy guide.
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4 Considerations in Choosing a Chandelier
Size
The key to making a chandelier truly shine is carefully considering scale. Luckily, there’s a designer-advocated equation for fitting a fixture into any space. In feet, add the measurement of the width of the room to the measurement of the length of the room. The ideal diameter or width of the chandelier will be that sum in inches.
More flexible guidelines dictate that if a room is smaller than 10 feet by 10 feet, a chandelier of 17 to 20 inches wide will suffice. For rooms 12 feet by 12 feet, the fixture is best at 22 to 27 inches wide, and for rooms about 14 by 14 feet, pick a chandelier that is 24 to 32 inches wide. Also, big rooms with high ceilings and larger area can take on bigger chandeliers, but rarely more than 36 inches in diameter.
For dining room chandeliers, the diameter of the overhead fixture should be one-half to two-thirds the width of the table. Keep a chandelier’s diameter within 12 to 15 inches from the edge of the table to avoid bumping heads.
Height
Another mathematical consideration to take into account is the drop-down length of your chandelier. If located in an open space like a living room or foyer, give a minimum of 12 inches between the bottom of the light and your own height. Give a space of at least seven feet from the floor. If hanging over a table, chandeliers should hover at least 36 inches above the tabletop.
Style
While any chandelier will give a space that little extra punch, it’s important to familiarize yourself with their many different styles. Knowing a few of the most popular chandelier styles can help guide your search.
Crystal Chandeliers
A total classic, crystal chandeliers have been a mainstay of interior design for centuries. Showy and diamond-flecked, these variants go well in decadently decorated communal spaces and magnificent stairways.
Candle Chandeliers
The most traditional looking variation, candle chandeliers usually have five upending arms, each with a candle-like light at the end. Suited for a rustic style dining room or living space, these fixtures are a showstopper.
Modern Chandeliers
Modern chandeliers emit a crisp and forward-looking style. Incorporating contemporary features and styles, they usually take on a geometric shape and showcase multiple arms. Sputnik chandeliers are a well-referenced mid-century modern chandelier. Their futuristic feel, polished chrome body, and multiple protruding arms make them a time-honored favorite.
Light
Primarily decorative fixtures, chandeliers are not usually expected to be a room’s main light source. Therefore, they should be incorporated into a layered lighting scheme. Additionally, chandeliers filter either uplight or downlight. Uplight refers to a more ambient glow, while downlight provides a focused, task light. Generally, for chandeliers over a kitchen island or foyer, downlight works best. On the other hand, for fixtures in a dining room or living space, the more atmospheric uplight is a better choice.
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Lead image: Design by Bachman Brown Design / Photo by Ngoc Minh Ngo