Selecting a Chandelier
Chandeliers can add style and ambiance to any room. Once popular primarily for
dining rooms, chandeliers are now showing up in kitchens, living rooms, halls,
even baths. The right chandelier can create the perfect atmosphere; the wrong
one can keep a room from its full potential.
Use these tips when selecting a chandelier:
Type
* The chandelier needs to complement the look of the room.
* The chandelier needs to complement the look of the room.
Example: If you have a French Country interior, an iron or wood chandelier may
be a better fit than a crystal or bronze chandelier. Crystal chandeliers are more
formal and add elegance to a room; however, they can look great in a modern setting
as well. Wrought-iron chandeliers work well with a more contemporary or relaxed
look.
* The chandelier should not out do the room by being overly ornate. More elaborate rooms can hold a chandelier with more detail.
* The chandelier should not out do the room by being overly ornate. More elaborate rooms can hold a chandelier with more detail.
Size
* General rule to determine size:
* General rule to determine size:
Add the dimensions of the room: room width plus room length = size of chandelier
Example: 17’ x 18’ room = 17+18 = a chandelier 35” in diameter.
* Size includes the visual weight and ornamentation of the chandelier.
Example: a room that needs a 35” chandelier and has a 12’ ceiling is going to need a light that is heavier than a room with a 9’ ceiling.
* The more ornate the chandelier, the greater the visual weight.
* Size includes the visual weight and ornamentation of the chandelier.
Example: a room that needs a 35” chandelier and has a 12’ ceiling is going to need a light that is heavier than a room with a 9’ ceiling.
* The more ornate the chandelier, the greater the visual weight.
Hanging Height
* Varies depending on visual weight and height of chandelier.
* General rules apply:
Over tables: 3’ above table (be sure the chandelier is centered over the table)
Ceilings that are 8’-12’ high: 7’ above floor
Ceilings 12’ and higher: 8’-9’ above floor
* Varies depending on visual weight and height of chandelier.
* General rules apply:
Over tables: 3’ above table (be sure the chandelier is centered over the table)
Ceilings that are 8’-12’ high: 7’ above floor
Ceilings 12’ and higher: 8’-9’ above floor