Height Placement for a Chandelier

Hanging a chandelier is a tricky task. There's all that messing with electrical components of the home and of course, then there's the height. How high should the chandelier be above the table? It's a tricky question which can make chandeliers a stressful situation if you're unsure of where to start. This guide will help you decide how high your chandelier should be.

What is the Proper Height for a Chandelier Over a Dining Room Table?

The standard height between the bottom of a chandelier and the top of a table can vary based on the individual, though most agree that it should be hung somewhere between 30 and 36 inches away from the table.

However, some argue that only 24 inches are necessary, while others feel the chandelier should be much higher so as to prevent people from bumping their head on it.

In reality, it can be tricky to sift through the different "recommended" heights, but to be honest, there are no stead-fast rules on how high a chandelier must be. In fact, there really isn't a one-size-fits-all height in regards to chandeliers.

This is because each dining room is unique and each chandelier is different. Some people choose larger chandeliers, while others prefer simpler, smaller chandeliers. Some people have bar-height tables while others have traditional height tables. Therefore, the proper height of the chandelier actually varies based on your individual dining room.

Instead of focusing on "the rules," for hanging a chandelier, consider this trick instead: take an umbrella and have someone hold it upside-down over your dining room table (make sure it's dry, of course.) This will give you a visual reference of how high above the table you want it to hang. Then, measure upward from the table top to the bottom of the umbrella and use that as your measurement. Lastly, hang accordingly. This really is an ideal way to ensure your chandelier looks appropriate for your particular dining room, though if you prefer to follow recommended numbers, that's okay too.

Entryway/Foyer Chandelier Heights

Installing a chandelier in a foyer or entryway is a little easier. It is recommended that no matter what the ceiling height is, whether it's 12 feet or 20 feet, that the chandelier is at least 7 feet off the ground. This allows for people (or doors) to move freely below without knocking the chandelier. Any lower and an accident could occur such as a tall guest smacking their head or your teenager whopping it with his hockey stick.