The Secrets to Buying Chandeliers Like a Pro
Chandeliers are an elegant way to light a room and create a beautiful focal point. If you’re planning to buy one, we have some tips for choosing the right chandelier for your space.
Chandelier Buying Guide
It can be challenging to buy a chandelier, but they can add a lot of charm and drama to your space. Having so many options can make it hard to know where to start.
Here are some helpful tips for finding the perfect chandelier for your home:
- Find out what style you like before you start shopping
- Check out lighting stores in person or online
- Consider more than just the lighting fixture when choosing a chandelier (see below)
Chandelier Size and Placement
You may have heard that chandeliers should be hung at eye level. That’s not a hard and fast rule, but it’s an excellent place to start. Most people tend to hang their chandeliers between 5’8″ and 6’2″. If you’re installing your chandelier in a large room, or if you have tall ceilings, go with something lower like 5’10” or 6′.
If you want to get the most bang for your buck in terms of light output per dollar spent, then it’s best to select a hanging height that puts the bottom of the fixture about 10 feet off the floor (for smaller fixtures) or 8-9 feet above an average-sized dining table (for larger ones). Keeping them closer than this will decrease how much light reaches every corner of your room; further away from these points will give more concentrated lighting on one area instead of spilling over several surfaces at once.
Chandelier Styles and Finishes
Various styles and finishes are available for chandeliers, so you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing the right one for your space. First, consider whether you want a chandelier made from metal, glass, or crystals. Metal chandeliers are often less expensive than those made of glass or crystal. Glass chandeliers can be made of anything from stained glass to clear crystal glass; they’re more expensive than their metal counterparts but tend to look more modern and contemporary. Crystal chandelier styles vary greatly as well—they can be shaped like teardrops or raindrops and feature everything from minimalistic designs (a single crystal rod) to ornate creations with large numbers of crystals in each fixture.
Shades and Accessories
Chandelier shades can be made of glass, metal, fabric, or paper. The shade material you choose will determine the look and feel of your chandelier.
Clear glass is a classic option that reflects light beautifully and shows off the design elements inside the fixture.
Frosted glass is softer than clear glass but allows light to shine through evenly.
Cloth shades are usually used for decorative purposes because they don’t let much light pass them. You may have seen these types of shades on pendant lights that use candles as their primary illumination source—they provide an attractive accent while allowing some visibility into the room below them (although they may not provide enough visibility to walk underneath safely). Consider using fabric instead if you want a more opaque effect with your chandelier shade!
Types of Chandeliers
Chandeliers can be made from various materials, including crystal, glass, metal, or wood. These materials create a wide range of chandelier styles, including traditional and modern designs. The most common shape for a chandelier is round or oval; however, they can also be square or rectangular in shape.
Chandeliers are often hung from the ceiling, but some may also be hung on the wall to provide ambient light above a dining table or work area.
- Shaded Chandeliers
- Tiered Chandeliers
- Antler Chandeliers
- Candle Chandeliers
- Crystal Chandeliers
- Drum Chandeliers
- Wagon Wheel Chandeliers
- Globe Chandeliers
- Mini Chandeliers
- Beaded Chandeliers
- Reversible Chandeliers
Tips For Decorating With Chandeliers
- Choose a chandelier that matches your style and home.
- Consider the room you want to hang it in.
- The size and shape of the furniture should be appropriate for the room.
Conclusion
We hope these tips have given you some insight into how to choose the right chandelier for your home. Remember, it’s all about finding one that fits your style and personality!