Whenever clients want to add lighting in a way that exudes elegance, a chandelier is our go-to solution for both. A chandelier brings needed light while also working like jewelry in a room, completing the look of a room and adorning it in beauty. You may want to experience the same benefits in your home, but how do you do it right? Chandeliers are statement-makers, but as with most things in life, that statement can go too far or not far enough. It helps to know what traits to look for to hit the right balance. Here are some tricks we use to select the best chandelier for your home and maximize the benefits this unique lighting brings.
How to Choose the Best Chandelier
There are several key factors to consider when choosing the best chandelier for your home:
Chandelier Size
Think about the size of the chandelier compared to the space it will occupy. In general, its size should complement the space it will be placed in. A small chandelier may get lost in a large room, while a large chandelier can overwhelm a smaller space.
Two common areas for chandeliers are dining rooms and living rooms. For
dining rooms, the dining table is your deciding factor. The general rule of thumb is to choose a chandelier that is one-half to two-thirds the width of the table. It should not overpower the table but rather serve as a statement piece that adds visual interest without distracting from the dining experience.
For a living room, take the foot length and width of a room, add them together, and change the total to inches. For instance, a 20′ x 20′ room would take a 40″ chandelier.
Note that these sizing recommendations aren’t 100% assured, but they do increase your chances of finding the correct size.
Chandelier Height
zThere are two factors to consider when choosing the best chandelier for your home: the chandelier height and the hanging height from the ground. In terms of the chandelier height, you can use a ratio of 2-3 inches for each foot of ceiling. For example, a 10-foot high room would take a chandelier of around 20-30 inches. For a two-story home, the ideal size would be 30-48″.
For the ideal hanging height, consider a long drop for high ceilings and a low drop for low ceilings. For a dining room, the ideal measurement is 30 to 34 inches above your dining table. For standard-height living rooms, consider 7 to 8 feet above the floor.
If you have a two-story foyer, the chandelier should hang no lower than the floor height on the second level. If it will hang over a staircase, maintain a clearance of 84 to 90 inches from the bottom of the chandelier to the floor on the ground level.
Shape
A chandelier is a stand-out design detail in a room and also works as a final touch in a space, so the shape should complement items near it. For example, a drum chandelier would work well above a round dining table and in a round room. A rectangular chandelier would be ideal for a rectangular table.
The room size can also determine the shape. For tall ceilings, a grand statement piece with sculptural shapes can create a dramatic effect, while for lower ceilings, a simple and clean-lined chandelier may be more suitable.
Note that the shape and overall design can also determine how strong of a statement you make in a room.
Style
Think about whether the chandelier style fits with your overall design aesthetic. If you have a contemporary space, opt for a chandelier with clean lines and sculptural shapes. For a more traditional space, a classic crystal chandelier would be a perfect choice.
Function
Chandeliers are a great way to bring a wow factor into a room, but they are not just decorative pieces. They also serve are a practical solution for adding light into a space. Choose a design that provides the lighting you need, such as ambient or focused task lighting.
A dining setting often works better with soft light for a calmer experience while you eat. In the living room, you might want a chandelier that creates a relaxing and ambient glow.
Also, consider the type and brightness of the light bulbs used in the chandelier to ensure you have the right amount of light in the room and over your dining table.
Finish
The finish of a chandelier is just as important to the eye as its design. There are a variety of finishes to choose from, each with its own unique look and feel.
Consider a chandelier with a polished brass or brushed nickel finish for a traditional and elegant look.
If you prefer a more modern and contemporary style, options like chrome, matte, or mirrored black bring a sleek and streamlined look. For rustic farmhouse homes, consider a chandelier with a distressed or bronze finish.
Pinterest is also an excellent location for finding designs and finishes that work with your home style. Selecting the right finish for your chandelier can create the perfect focal point and enhance the overall ambiance of your home. Following the sizing and lighting guidelines above will also help you narrow down your selections to achieve the ideal blend of beauty and functionality.
