Choosing the Right Chandelier

With the variety of chandeliers that are available on the market these days, it is important that the prudent shopper come armed with the right information before plunking down the money for just any old ceiling fixture. That means understanding what chandelier will or won't work in a particular space.

Adding value to your home, creating the right mood, and offering the proper amount of light are all important considerations when choosing the right chandelier. So to make sure you choose the right chandelier, here are four important steps you should consider when buying your next chandelier.

Review the Architectural Style of Your Home

Just like your home, chandeliers come in a variety of styles, from Tiffany and Art Deco to modern and traditional. Knowing the age and architectural style of your house will help you to determine the styles best suited to your home. In addition, you'll want to keep in mind the decorating style of your room.

Even though you might love the look of a Victorian chandelier, if your home is a 1960s ranch which you have updated to a more contemporary style, this type of chandelier won't necessarily fit your current surroundings. That doesn't mean you shouldn't mix and match or that an eclectic look won't work, you just need to consider that if you redecorate in a few years, you're likely to want to change your chandelier again.

Determine the Right Size Chandelier for Your Room

Obviously, a smaller room requires a smaller chandelier. But exactly how do you determine which size is right for which room? There's a simple equation that many experts recommend.

Measure the dimensions of your room, add the two numbers together and then select a chandelier which is that wide. So, for a room which is 12-by-12 feet wide you would want to purchase a 24-inch wide chandelier. Obviously, these numbers don't have to be exact; however, it is important to keep in mind that the size of the room does influence the size of the chandelier.

In addition, consider the style of the chandelier and where you are placing it. The simpler the design, an inch or two larger may be fine. If you are hanging the chandelier over a dining room set, it should be narrower than the table it overhangs (approximately one-third the width).

Consider the Amount of Light You Need in the Space

When most people hang a chandelier, it becomes only one source of light for the entire space. Generally, there are perimeter lights such as sconces, task lights such as buffet lamps, or ceiling lights such as pot lights or track lighting that help to light the space, too. Your chandelier is likely just one among many.

Therefore, you need to keep in mind the purpose of each lighting source. In the case of your chandelier, you many want to consider putting it on a dimmer switch in order to allow you to adjust the intensity, whether you're serving a buffet for twenty or a candlelit dinner for two.

Choose a Chandelier that You Love

When all is said and done, one of the most important aspects of choosing the right chandelier is that you must like your choice. After all, you will have to look at each day for the next few years. Look through decorating magazines to find rooms that reflect your taste or look similar to your room. This will help you to better visualize the final results. In the end, be sure to take your time and find a chandelier you truly love.

There is a wide variety of shapes, colors and styles of chandeliers to choose from, so take time to study what the market offers. Make sure it fits your room and you perfectly before you buy.