When choosing the correct size for a chandelier, it is important to consider that the size of the chandelier will have an effect on the visual balance of the room. If the chandelier is too small for the room, it may look lost within the space. However, if the chandelier is too large for the room, it will overwhelm the space.
To determine the correct diameter of the chandelier for a room, use a simple mathematical formula. Multiply the width and length of the room (in feet) together, and multiply that number by two to determine the diameter of the chandelier in inches. For example, if the dining room area is 12 feet in width and 14 feet in length, the total area is 168 square feet.
How to Choose the Right Chandelier Size and Height
168 divided by 4 (the same as multiplying by two) is 42 inches. However, most peoples may desire to use a slightly smaller chandelier, so use this number as a guideline and adjust based off personal preference. The chandelier should not be wider than the dining table.
Subtract one foot from the width of the table to determine the ideal width of the chandelier. This allows for others to eat at the table without hitting the chandelier. Additionally, the distance from the table to the chandelier should be between 30 and 36 inches to provide clearance for others to eat at the table without hitting the chandelier.
The size of the chandelier should also change based on the type of room in the house. For small bedrooms and small breakfast nooks, use a chandelier under 20 inches in diameter. In these spaces, a small chandelier will not overwhelm the area.
For living rooms and kitchens, use a chandelier between 21 and 35 inches in diameter. A chandelier of this size will provide enough light for the space. For large areas like foyers or living areas, use a chandelier of 36 inches in diameter or more to fill the large area.
Another factor to consider when hanging a chandelier is the height of the ceiling. If the height of the ceiling is eight feet, use a flush mount or semi-flush mount chandelier. These types of chandeliers creates 12 inches of clearance under the chandelier.
For ceilings between nine and ten feet in height, the hanging point of the chandelier should be seven and a half feet to eight feet from the floor. For vaulted ceilings that are 12 feet in height or more, the chandelier can have a longer drop; these types of chandeliers are referred to as long drop chandeliers. To determine the length of the drop, subtract the desired height of the chandelier from the height of the ceiling.
For example, if the ceiling is 12 feet high, you should hang the chandelier at a point where the bottom of the chandelier is 10 feet from the floor; the drop should be calculated as 12 minus 10 equals two feet. If the ceiling is sloped, use a swivel ceiling canopy; these types of canopies allow the chandelier to be hung level in the ceiling. The style of the chandelier should match the style of the decor in the room.
For formal dining rooms, traditional and crystal chandeliers may be appropriate. For open concepts and lofts, a moddern and geometric chandelier may be best. For kitchens with wooden or iron elements, a rustic chandelier may be appropriate.
For urban studios, an industrial chandelier may be the best choice for the decor in the room. For homes with decor of transitional elements, a transitional chandelier may be appropriate. Additionally, choose the number of bulbs for the chandelier prior to installation.
Small chandeliers may have one to three bulbs. Large chandeliers may have a dozen or more bulbs for even lighting. The hanging height of the chandelier is one of the last factors to consider.
The chandelier should be hung 36 inches above a dining table. A minimum height for the chandelier in a living area is seven feet to allow for the chandelier to clear the coffee table. For kitchens, you should hang the chandelier at the same height as the dining room chandelier above a kitchen island.
For foyers, the chandelier should be hung at least six and a half feet above the stair risers. Common mistakes to avoid when hanging a chandelier include hanging the chandelier in a path that traffic will hit. Additionally, another common mistake is to purchase a chandelier based upon current design and lighting trends, but which does not match the size of the room in which youll install the chandelier.
Before hanging the chandelier, use string and tape to mock up the size of the chandelier that will be installed in the room. Use a dimmer switch to adjust the brightness of the chandelier. Additionally, use LED bulbs for the chandeliers for increased energy efficiency.
Finally, ensure that you dust the chandelier each week for cleanliness.
