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how do i choose the right chandelier

by Halie Parisian Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Choosing Chandeliers:

  • Determine the Correct Diameter Measure the length and width of the room in feet, and add those two numbers together. ...
  • Measure for the Height The taller the ceiling, the taller the chandelier can be. ...
  • Decide Where to Hang Your Chandelier The location will affect the style of chandelier you choose. ...
  • Pick a Style That Matches the Room ...
  • Adjust the Height of the Chandelier ...

What should I look for when searching for my ideal chandelier? Aside from style, the three main factors to selecting a chandelier are: size/scale, direction of light output (glare versus glitter), and control (dimming). Having something too big or too small can result in a disproportioned look in your space.

Full Answer

How to pick the perfect chandelier?

How to Pick the Perfect Chandelier for Any Space

  • Choose a Style & Brightness. Before purchasing a chandelier, make sure you have an idea of the style you’re trying to achieve. ...
  • Embrace Your Inner Goldilocks. Part of the reason it takes so long to find the perfect chandelier is the sizing. ...
  • Hang with Care. When purchasing a chandelier, make sure to check the chord length. ...

How to select the perfect dining room chandelier?

How to Choose the Perfect Modern Chandelier

  • Chandelier Ideas for Dining Rooms. Chandeliers and dining rooms are a great match. ...
  • Hanging Chandeliers in Entryways. For the most part, there are two different entryways: double-high (AKA grand) or an entrance with a normal ceiling height (generally around eight feet tall).
  • Bedroom Chandeliers. ...
  • Best Chandeliers in Small Rooms. ...
  • Chandeliers for Big Rooms. ...

How to choose a chandelier in the proper size?

Where to Place Your Chandelier

  • Dining Room. Hanging Height: The bottom of the chandelier should hang 30" – 36" above the table. ...
  • Above a Kitchen Island. Hanging Height: The bottom of the chandelier should hang 30" – 36" above the countertop. ...
  • Entryway, Bedroom, or Living Room. ...
  • Bathroom. ...

How to find the perfect chandelier style?

Tips for chandeliers in any other room:

  • Add the length of the room (in ft) and the width of the room (in ft) and convert the total to inches to find the perfect chandelier size
  • For example, if you room is 10′ x 12′, you would need a fixture that is approx. ...
  • For every foot of height in your space, allow 2-3 inches of chandelier height

More items...

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How do I choose a chandelier for my living room?

To determine exactly what size chandelier you need for your living room, add the length and width of the room together—the answer in inches is the proper diameter of an appropriately sized chandelier. (So if your room is 15'x15', look for a chandelier that is 30” in diameter or width.)

How do I figure out what size chandelier I need?

A simple way to determine a chandelier size is to add the dimensions of the room together in feet and then convert the answer to inches. The answer in inches should equal the diameter of the fixture. So if your room measures 10' x 14' the diameter of the fixture should be about 24".

What is the right size chandelier for my dining room?

The best way to achieve this is to select a fixture that's diameter is somewhere between half and three quarters the diameter (or width) of the tabletop. For example, if the dining room table was 48" wide x 60" long, the chandelier that is 24" to 36" in diameter would be an appropriate size to compliment the table.

How big should a chandelier be in a living room?

Measure your room's length and width in feet, and add those two numbers together. Then use that number as the width in inches for your chandelier. For example, if your room is 10' x 16', the sum of those equals 26'. The chandelier should be 26" wide.

How do you determine the size of a light fixture for a room?

For ambient lighting use, measure the length and width of the room you wish to light. Then convert this number to inches by adding them together. This is the ideal width of the fixture. For example, an 18-inch wide fixture would be ideal for an 8x10 foot room.

How big should a rectangular chandelier be?

Determine Chandelier Width However, for round or rectangular fixtures, the length should be at least one-half, but not more than two-thirds the length of your table. You can also use the square footage of your room to help estimate the size of chandelier that would be proportional.

Can you put a round chandelier over a rectangle table?

A linear suspension or linear multi-pendant light fixture make sense over a rectangular table. While you wouldn't want a linear light over a round table, you could use two round lights over a rectangular table. You can also center a round fixture over a rectangular table and place a recessed downlight on each side.

Does chandelier have to be centered over table?

Using a Floor Plan for Chandeliers Placement If the chandelier will be hung over a table, either in the hall or the dining room, it is essential that you determine the exact placement of the table, because the chandelier, in turn, needs to be centered over it.

How far should a chandelier hang from the ceiling?

Hang a chandelier approximately 30 to 34 inches over a table with an 8 foot ceiling height. If your ceiling is higher than 8 feet, mount the chandelier an additional 3 inches higher for each foot of ceiling.

How low should a chandelier hang in a living room?

In general, your chandelier should hang no lower than 30 inches to 36 inches above your table. While these rules can be bent to accommodate the interplay of room elements, this is a tried-and-true estimate for matching your chandelier to a space.

What is the best lighting for low ceilings?

Uplighters are a very effective way of lighting a room with low ceilings and will provide plenty of good quality ambient lighting. Uplighters include a wide range of wall lights and floor lamps. Meanwhile, floor lamps and table lamps are great for practical task lighting, while also adding ambience.

How low should a chandelier hang from a 9 foot ceiling?

How high should I hang a chandelier if I have 9 foot ceilings? Aim for at least 7 feet above the floor and ideally 7 feet, 6 inches above the floor. Keep reading for tips on what size chandelier to choose for a room with 9 foot ceilings.

How big should a chandelier be over a 60 round table?

The light fixture over a round table should be one-third to two-thirds of the table's width. For example, in the case of a 60 inches round table the light fixture should be 20 to 40 inches.

How do I choose a ceiling light size?

In general, we recommend that the light is 3" tall for every foot of space between the floor and ceiling. You can find this number by multiplying the height of your ceiling (in feet) by three. For example, if your ceilings are 10' high, your chandelier should be 30" tall (10 x 3 = 30).

What is the most important thing to consider when choosing a chandelier?

When it comes to choosing a chandelier for your home, one of the most important considerations is the size of the room it will be installed in. The measurements of the room determine the measurements of the chandelier itself because of the eye-catching nature of the hanging feature.

Why is it important to lower the placement of a chandelier?

The lower placement keeps the chandelier just above your field of vision for enjoying the decoration while providing a comfortable glow of light without the harsh glare. The most important factor in designing your home is your satisfaction with the end result.

How far should a chandelier be from a door?

It should allow enough space between the bottom of the lamp and the floor that the average human can walk under it without bumping their head on the lighting fixture, and high enough up that an open door would be likely to clear it in spaces such as small foyers with high ceilings. A chandelier should always be placed three feet away from a doorway to allow for the swing of the door as well as the draft it creates, which could jostle the chandelier. Always make sure it’s mounted securely to minimize these issues.

How big should a chandelier be in a 10x10 room?

E.g.: For a room that is 10’ by 10’, you would want a chandelier of no more than 20” diameter

How wide should a chandelier be for a 4' hallway?

E.g.: For a 4’ wide hallway, keep your chandelier within the range of 8” to 10” diameter.

How tall is a chandelier?

For the chandelier height: E.g.: An 8’ tall room can bring in a 20” to 24” tall chandelier. It is important to note that the height of your chandelier includes the downrod or chain as well as the lighted fixture itself.

Can a chandelier be hung over a dining room table?

The same situational ‘rule’ applies to chandeliers that will be centered over a dining room table. When hanging a chandelier over a table, the diameter can also be decided by the size of the table, rather than the size of the room. A table, such as a dining room table, is also a focal point in a room, so the chandelier should share attention ...

How to determine the size of a chandelier?

When choosing a chandelier for most spaces, one general rule of thumb will give you a good guide on choosing a size: Width of room (in feet) + length of room (in feet) = diameter/width of chandelier (in inches). So, for example, if your room is 14 feet long by 10 feet wide, ...

How long should a chandelier be?

Lengthwise, a chandelier will ideally be one-half to two-thirds of the length of your table to create a nice balance of proportions. 5 Pro Tips for Choosing a Dining Room Chandelier.

How high should a chandelier be above a dining table?

First, it should be low enough to create an intimate atmosphere but still not in anyone’s way. Hanging it with the bottom 30 to 34 inches above the table is a good rule.

How to determine the vertical dimension of a chandelier?

To choose the vertical dimension of a chandelier, the classic rule is to take the room height (in feet) and multiple it by 2.5 to 3 to get a good range (in inches) for the vertical proportions of the light.

How big is a 24 inch chandelier?

So, for example, if your room is 14 feet long by 10 feet wide, a 24-inch diameter chandelier would look proportionate (14 feet + 10 feet = 24 feet, which you convert to inches). This is a common rule that helps you keep the scale of your chandelier in proportion to the size of the room.

How high should a ceiling be?

A standard of 7 feet above the floor works for most spaces with a ceiling higher than 8 feet. If you do the math, however, with a standard 8-foot ceiling, you cannot fit a 20- to 24-inch light at this height to follow the previous rule.

What is traditional light?

A traditional light can bring a great sense of richness and gravitas to a modern home, but the opposite combination can be just as beautiful. A contemporary or midcentury style of light combined with traditional furnishings gives the room a little bit of edge and brings it into the present in just the right way.

How to Select the Right Style Chandelier?

Chandeliers come in a broad range of styles, so it is easy to find a chandelier to complement your taste and aesthetics. Some of the most popular styles include:

What Are Some Things I Should Know Before Purchasing a Chandelier?

One of the most important things to know before installing any ceiling light is the amount of headroom available in the planned location. The lowest portion of the lamp should be at least seven feet above the floor unless it will hang over a permanently placed fixture such as a countertop or table. This prevents tall guests or family members from bumping their heads on the lamp.

What is the Right Size Chandelier for My Home?

For example, if your room is 12 x 16 feet, the diameter would be 28 feet. The diameter of your chandelier should be the same number as your room diameter in inches. For example, a room with a 26-foot diameter should have a 26-inch chandelier.

How Do I Size a Chandelier Over a Dining Table?

To find the right size chandelier for your dining table, find the width of the table and subtract 12 inches. For example, if your table is 45 inches wide, the chandelier should be 33 inches wide.

What is an incandescent halogen bulb?

Incandescent halogen bulbs are a modern version of the standard electric bulb. However, they are more energy efficient. These bulbs work well with dimmers to allow you greater control over the mood of the lighting.

What is geometric chandelier?

Geometric chandeliers offer a modern, elevated alternative to standard rectangular or square globe shapes. The design often features a cage structure around a central set of bulbs. Ideally suited to urban modern homes, as well as minimal and Scandinavian style.

What is a modern chandelier called?

Sputnik is another modern style of chandelier and is named for its resemblance to a satellite. Spindles with lighted tips extend from a central spine, often in a sunburst or geometric shape. These avant-garde lighting fixtures make eye-catching accent pieces for modern, eclectic, and bohemian homes.

How to choose a chandelier size?

Some designers follow these guidelines, which offer a bit more flexibility: 1 For rooms smaller than 10 feet x 10 feet, choose a chandelier that is 17 to 20 inches wide. 2 For rooms about 12 feet x 12 feet, choose a chandelier that is 22 to 27 inches wide. 3 For rooms around 14 feet x 14 feet in size, choose a chandelier that is 24 to 32 inches wide.

How to determine the right size chandelier?

One standard method for determining the right size for a chandelier is to add the length and width dimensions of the room together, measured in feet. That number, in inches, is a good size for your chandelier. For example, a foyer 12 feet x 12 feet in size calls for a 24-inch-diameter chandelier fixture. Some designers follow these guidelines, ...

How big should a dining room chandelier be?

The diameter of a dining room chandelier should be about one-half to two-thirds the width of the table over which it will be hanging. Another version of this rule is that the diameter of the fixture should be about 1 foot less in diameter than the width of the dining room table at its widest point. The logic behind these guidelines is that guests rising from their seats are less likely to bump their heads if the hanging fixture is kept well back from the seating area. If this is not possible, most experts say that it's better to go bigger with the dining room chandelier size rather than smaller. You can always hang the fixture a bit higher so it is well out of the way.

How wide should a chandelier be?

For rooms around 14 feet x 14 feet in size, choose a chandelier that is 24 to 32 inches wide. Rooms larger than this rarely require chandeliers more than 32 inches wide, unless their ceilings are quite high. Very large rooms with ceilings 14 feet or higher may tolerate a chandelier as much as 36 inches in diameter.

How far should a chandelier be from a wall?

If possible, size the chandelier so it is no closer than 48 inches from any wall or other piece of furniture. Although hard to accomplish in smaller spaces, this is a good rule-of-thumb to keep in mind.

What is a chandelier?

A chandelier is a focal point for any room, and especially so for the dining room, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your decor, but that is also the right size for the space.

Is a chandelier a matter of size?

For foyers , great rooms , and other large spaces, keep in mind that an appropriate chandelier is more than a matter of size. Remember that the fixture style and the visual weight also plays a role. If you are choosing a fixture with a heavy, ornate style, it can be a bit smaller, while a more delicate fixture can afford to be a little wider than ...

How to measure a chandelier?

A simple way to determine a chandelier size is to add the dimensions of the room together in feet and then convert the answer to inches. The answer in inches should equal the diameter of the fixture. So if your room measures 10' x 14' the diameter of the fixture should be about 24". Here are a few more quick guidelines to help:

How to determine the size of a chandelier?

A simple way to determine a chandelier size is to add the dimensions of the room together in feet and then convert the answer to inches. The answer in inches should equal the diameter of the fixture. So if your room measures 10' x 14' the diameter of the fixture should be about 24". Here are a few more quick guidelines to help: 1 If the room is smaller than 10' x 10' the fixture should be 17" to 20" wide. 2 If the room is around 12' x 12' the fixture should be 22" to 27" wide. 3 If the room is around 14' x 14' the fixture should be 24" to 32" wide.

How wide should a light fixture be?

If the room is smaller than 10' x 10' the fixture should be 17" to 20" wide.

Hanging It in the Right Room

First and foremost, you’ll have to familiarise yourself with the best type of lighting for each room of the house before you start shortlisting a chandelier for your home.

Choosing a Complementing Style

Once you’ve decided where you’ll hang your chandelier, you’ll also need to take a look around the room and determine what mood, style, and ambience you want to create with the lighting fixture.

Determining the Right Diameter

The size of the chandelier is an important consideration before you head to the market to buy a chandelier. The diameter of the fixture should be directly proportional to the room you want to hang the chandelier in, so take accurate measurements of the room as per the specifications mentioned below:

Measuring the Length

Selecting the right chandelier also involves knowing the ideal height to hang a chandelier. This is why you must measure the ceiling height for an estimated length before choosing a chandelier for any space. Generally, if you have high ceilings, the chandelier should be fairly long.

How tall should a chandelier be?

Generally, remember this ratio: The height of your chandelier equals 2.5 inches of chandelier height to 1 foot of room height. In that case, a room that’s 8 feet high would like a chandelier that’s about 20 inches tall. The diameter of your chandelier should be half of the perimeter of the room in inches. So, if your room is 8 feet by 10 feet, ...

How to determine the size of chandelier for a table?

To calculate the exact chandelier diameter or width you’ll need, here are a few simple guidelines: Round tables: select a chandelier that is one third the width of your table. A 60-inch table would take a 20-inch light fixture above it. You can get away with something slightly larger for oval and rectangle table.

How to measure a rectangular table?

Rectangular tables measure the width of your dining table, divide it by 2, and then add 5 inches, give or take an inch or two. No matter what, hang it with the bottom 30 to 34 inches above the table. You can also work backwards to find the right table size if you have a chandelier that you love.

What is a small bowl chandelier?

Overall, it has to make sense for the space it’s in (more on that throughout the post). A small bowl chandelier that hangs close to the ceiling will look out of place in a 2-story foyer, for example.

Is a chandelier a good match for a dining room?

Chandeliers and dining rooms are a great match. The room needs an intimate feel and lighting is a great way to access that feeling. Because of the special considerations when choosing a dining room chandelier, this is the room where there are the most “rules” in terms of size, type, and how to hang it. The average dining room chandelier is ...

Is it better to have two or three chandeliers?

Two or three are sometimes better than one! This is especially true if you have a big room. For example, hang a row of pendants over a kitchen island or breakfast counter or use two smaller chandeliers over your table instead of one long one.

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1.How to Choose the Right Entryway Chandelier | Buying …

Url:https://www.topmodern.com/buying-guides/how-to-choose-the-right-entryway-chandelier

22 hours ago Five Things to Consider When Buying a Foyer Chandelier #1 Determine Your Interior Design Style. According to the Home Design Article “10 Helpful Tips in Buying a Chandelier,”... #2 …

2.Videos of How Do I Choose The Right Chandelier

Url:/videos/search?q=how+do+i+choose+the+right+chandelier&qpvt=how+do+i+choose+the+right+chandelier&FORM=VDRE

10 hours ago There’s a useful formula to help with sizing your chandelier to your room, so grab your tape measure, a pen, and some paper, and jot this down for your planning. For a room: Room …

3.How to Choose a Chandelier - Houzz

Url:https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-choose-a-chandelier-stsetivw-vs~94403549

24 hours ago To choose the vertical dimension of a chandelier, the classic rule is to take the room height (in feet) and multiple it by 2.5 to 3 to get a good range (in inches) for the vertical …

4.How to Choose a Chandelier - Foter

Url:https://foter.com/how-to-choose-a-chandelier

31 hours ago  · What is the Right Size Chandelier for My Home? To find the right chandelier for your room, begin by measuring the length and width of the space. Add the two …

5.How to Pick the Right Chandelier - Houzz

Url:https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1178/thumbs/How-to-Pick-the-Right-Chandelier

11 hours ago In almost all cases, the chandelier will be a focus piece so make sure that it goes along with the style of the other pieces in the area. Other things to consider when choosing a chandelier are …

6.How to Choose the Right Size Chandelier - The Spruce

Url:https://www.thespruce.com/find-the-right-size-dining-room-chandelier-1976285

3 hours ago  · Tips for Choosing Chandelier Size in Dining Rooms The diameter of a dining room chandelier should be about one-half to two-thirds the width of the table over which it will be …

7.How to Determine the Right Chandelier Size for a Room

Url:https://www.thespruce.com/the-right-chandelier-size-for-your-room-1976288

15 hours ago  · Determining a Chandelier Size. If the room is smaller than 10' x 10' the fixture should be 17" to 20" wide. If the room is around 12' x 12' the fixture should be 22" to 27" …

8.How to Choose the Right Chandelier for Your Home?

Url:https://www.zameen.com/blog/choosing-right-chandelier.html

30 hours ago Selecting the right chandelier also involves knowing the ideal height to hang a chandelier. This is why you must measure the ceiling height for an estimated length before choosing a …

9.How to Choose the Perfect Modern Chandelier - Hadley …

Url:https://hadleycourt.com/how-to-choose-the-perfect-modern-chandelier/

30 hours ago How to Choose the Perfect Modern Chandelier Chandelier Ideas for Dining Rooms. Chandeliers and dining rooms are a great match. The room needs an intimate feel and... Hanging …

10.5 Pro Tips for Choosing a Dining Room Chandelier - Houzz

Url:https://www.houzz.com/magazine/5-pro-tips-for-choosing-a-dining-room-chandelier-stsetivw-vs%7E115536350

5 hours ago  · Selecting a right-size chandelier is all about the shape of the chandelier and the size of the table. While some people may want an oversize chandelier for dramatic effect, if …

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