Chandelier Buying Guide

Cost is probably one of the most important factors when it comes to buying a new chandelier, but numbers of other types, too, play an important role. A few numbers below will be helpful in choosing your new fixture.

If your room is smaller than 10 feet by 10 feet, make sure your chandelier measures between 17 inches and 20 inches in diameter. If your room is larger - 12 feet by 12 feet - consider a 26 or 27 inch diameter fixture. Finally, if you are looking at an even larger room - 14 feet by 14 feet - consider a one that is anywhere from 24 inches to 36 inches. You should hang it about 30 inches above the surface so make sure the light spreads evenly. If you choose to hang it over the table, make sure the table is 12 inches wider than the chandelier you choose. Make sure the total wattage of your fixture and bulbs is 200 to 400 watts.

Design Styles Different styles of chandeliers will cast a different light -and look - in your home. Consider the following style descriptions to see what might work best for you. A Victorian style often features stacked, glass blown globes in brass wheels arranged in tiers. It casts a soft, warm light and looks best in a dim room with wood accents. Gas electric chandeliers have tulip shaped flutes usually made of heavy glass. In Victorian times, candles would have lit this fixture, but today bulbs give a bright light. This style works great in a bathroom. The arts and crafts style of decor emulates the great design style of Frank Lloyd Wright with its thin glass shades that hang down from a rustic looking wood or metal frame. The mission style chandelier have squared shades with opaque or pearlized glass; both of the above chandelier types usually cast dimmer, more intimate lights. A wagon wheel chandelier is a 1970s popularized style with a wooden wheel topped with mini lampshades that gives off a warm, yellow light good for a dining room.

Atomic age chandeliers adopt the style of the 1950s and often have the look of a cluster of metal starbursts. The style isn't dated, rather, it always feels new and often uses rainbow bulbs. The light is dim but perfect for an eclectic decor. Finally, if you like something a bit different, consider an art deco style. They cast a lovely, soft light on any room and often have beautiful details like flower shaped shades that can be frosted, colored glass or clear glass with colored streaks.