The Complete Guide to Finding the Perfect Chandelier for Your Home
Chandeliers have always been a focal point in luxury homes and grand spaces throughout history. But today, chandeliers are becoming a popular lighting choice for all different styles of homes and budgets.
Beyond just providing light, chandeliers create an elegant, sophisticated look and feel. They elevate the décor and ambiance of any space. That’s why more and more homeowners are investing in chandeliers - not just for formal dining rooms but also for foyers, bedrooms, kitchens, and more.
If you’re considering a new chandelier, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of finding the perfect chandelier for your home. We’ll cover how to choose the right chandelier based on your room size, ceiling height, and decorating style. Plus, get valuable tips on the most popular styles, materials, sizes, and shapes on the market right now.
By the end, you’ll be a chandelier expert ready to confidently shop LOOMLAN’s gorgeous selection of chandeliers to take your lighting to the next level. Let’s get started!
How to Choose the Right Chandelier Size
One of the most important factors in picking a chandelier is getting the size right for your room. You want the chandelier to feel proportional to the space so it has the right visual impact.
As a general rule of thumb:
- For large rooms with high ceilings, choose a bigger chandelier (typically 32 inches wide or larger). This makes a statement.
- For medium to large rooms with standard 8 ft. ceilings, go for a medium chandelier around 20-32 inches wide.
- For small to medium rooms, opt for a smaller chandelier in the 12-24 inch wide range. This keeps it intimate.
- For narrow entryways and foyers, elongated chandeliers work well to match the shape of the space. Go for 36 inches tall and 12-18 inches wide.
- For bedrooms, small chandeliers less than 20 inches work well so they don’t overwhelm.
Of course, these are just guidelines. Make sure to account for your room layout, ceiling details, and existing decor when deciding on chandelier size.
You can refer to LOOMLAN’s helpful chandelier size guide here which breaks it down room-by-room. They also include detailed sizing info with each chandelier to make it easy to find the right fit.
Chandelier Styles for Every Decorating Taste
When it comes to chandelier styles and designs, your options are limitless. From dramatic crystal chandeliers to modern LED chandeliers and everything in between, there’s a look to match any home’s style.
Here are some of the most popular chandelier styles and how to decorate with them:
Nothing says luxury and elegance quite like a sparkling crystal chandelier. The thousands of shimmering crystal prisms refract light beautifully. Crystal chandeliers work especially well in formal dining rooms and foyers. But they make a statement anywhere you put them.
LOOMLAN has a stunning collection of crystal chandeliers at a range of price points. Some feature ornate crystal strands cascading down for major drama. Others have a simpler teardrop shape. Mix crystal chandelier styles in one room for extra flair.
The rustic chandelier trend brings natural charm to any space. Rustic designs often feature materials like wood, wrought iron, antlers, rope or rawhide. Great in mountain retreats, ranch homes and farmhouse decor.
Try a twig branch chandelier over a country dining table. Or pick a woven rawhide chandelier to accentuate a Southwestern look. LOOMLAN has lots of trendy rustic chandelier options to peruse.
Transitional style merges traditional and contemporary elements for a timeless look. Transitional chandeliers have classic shapes but modernized details like an updated finish or mixed materials. The silhouette typically has clean lines rather than ornate details.
This versatile style works in traditional homes but also more casual living spaces. LOOMLAN’s wide range of transitional chandeliers easily mixes with most decor.
Modern chandeliers make a statement with their streamlined, geometric shapes and contemporary materials. You’ll often see straight or curved lines instead of intricate scrollwork. Popular finishes include polished chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze.
Modern chandelier styles range from large and sculptural to subtle and minimalist. LED lighting gives a very current look. Modern chandeliers shine in contemporary spaces and also add an unexpected twist in traditional rooms.
As the name suggests, drum chandeliers have a simple cylindrical drum shade enclosing the light source. The drum shape provides both an ambient glow and a little downlighting.
Drum chandeliers work with many decorating styles thanks to their clean, versatile look. Try one over an island or dining table. LOOMLAN has drum chandeliers in modern, coastal, rustic and other styles to explore.
Crystal Chandelier Materials
Crystal chandeliers are available in a variety of crystal types, each with their own aesthetic and price point:
Swarovski Crystals
Considered the gold standard of crystal, Swarovski crystals are known for their exceptional brilliance and quality. Made in Austria, Swarovski crystals refract light perfectly thanks to their leaded composition. They really make a chandelier sparkle! Naturally, the Swarovski name means a higher price tag but the radiance is unmatched.
K9 Crystal
K9 is an affordable lead-free crystal that offers great shine for the money. K9 has a similar prismatic effect to leaded crystal. It's an eco-friendly alternative found in many budget-friendly crystal chandeliers these days. LOOMLAN has a nice selection of quality K9 crystal chandeliers.
Acrylic “Crystal”
On the most affordable end of the spectrum, some chandeliers use acrylic pieces instead of actual crystal. Acrylic resembles glass but is less fragile. While not as brilliant as real crystal, acrylic is an option when you want the look on a tight budget. Just know it doesn’t refract light quite the same.
Other Chandelier Materials
Beyond crystal, chandeliers come in an array of other materials as well:
Wrought iron chandeliers with a black finish are common in French, Tuscan, Spanish and other ornate styles. Brushed nickel, bronze, and chrome finishes give a more modern metal look.
Natural wood adds warmth and texture to any chandelier. Rustic, organic styles showcase wood accents and branches.
Fabric lampshades soften the look of a chandelier. Choices range from elegant silk taffeta to casual cotton shades.
Look for art glass or colored glass if you want more color. Murano glass chandeliers from Italy provide vibrant accents.
Glazed ceramic in modern hues works for Southwestern and contemporary spaces. Spanish-inspired tiles add romantic flair.
Coastal chandeliers may incorporate real sea shells and starfish for beachy appeal.
Antlers
For that “mountain lodge” feel, try a chandelier with antlers integrated into the design. Rustic and organic.
As you can see, the material possibilities are endless! Mix and match for extra eclectic charm. LOOMLAN has a full spectrum of chandelier materials to browse.
Lighting Options for Chandeliers
Beyond deciding on the look of your chandelier, you also need to choose the right lighting. Consider the room’s purpose and your lighting needs:
Candle Bulbs
Traditional candle bulbs with a flickering flame are still used in classic chandeliers to emulate old-world gas lighting. While atmospheric, wax candle bulbs require maintenance.
Incandescent Light Bulbs
The most common and affordable option, incandescent bulbs cast a warm, inviting glow. Downside is they have a shorter lifespan and consume more energy.
LED Bulbs
LED bulbs are the top choice for modern chandeliers. LEDs last much longer than other bulbs and use a fraction of the energy. They come in warm and cool temperature options.
Dimmable Bulbs
Look for chandeliers with dimmable bulbs or lighting you can pair with a dimmer switch. This allows you to control the light level from bright and lively to soft and moody.
Hardwired Fixtures
Chandeliers that are hardwired into the ceiling require installation by an electrician but provide more permanence.
Plug-In Fixtures
Plug-in chandeliers simply plug into an outlet for quick and easy installation without wiring. Great for rentals. Just make sure not to exceed the fixture’s recommended wattage.
Smart Bulbs
With smart bulbs, you can control your chandelier remotely through voice control or an app. Adjust brightness, set lighting schedules, create scenes and more.
Chandelier Shapes
While many chandeliers have a round, circular shape, today’s modern designs come in creative new forms:
Pendant balls clustered together provide spherical silhouettes. Works with modern to industrial styles.
Elongated, oval chandeliers make a statement over dining tables and entryways. Provides focused light.
Cylindrical drum chandeliers emit light in all directions for general ambient lighting. Streamlined look.
Conical chandeliers taper up for an intriguing angular statement. Often seen suspended at an angle.
Slender rectangular chandeliers complement linear spaces. Case in point - floating rectangles over a console table.
Singles vs. Multiples
Another choice is whether to go with a single chandelier bulb or a design with multiple bulbs:
Single Bulb
Asolo pendant light offers a simpler focal point. Works well centered exactly over a table.
Multiple Bulbs
For larger rooms or a bolder look, choose a chandelier with multiple pendant lights. Provides more ambient illumination from different angles.
Where to Hang a Chandelier
Now let’s discuss exactly where to install your chandelier for maximum visual appeal:
Over the Dining Table
This is likely the first spot that comes to mind when you imagine a chandelier. Centered over the dining table, a chandelier defines the space while providing direct task lighting.
In Foyers and Entryways
Welcome guests in style underneath a stunning entryway chandelier. Position it in the center of the foyer or align it with the front door.
In the Bedroom
To elevate the elegance of a master or guest bedroom, hang a chandelier over the bed or seating area as a decorative focal point.
Above the Tub
For a glamorous bathroom, install a small chandelier over the bathtub. Provides practical light for bathing but also serious style.
In the Kitchen
While pendant lights are more common over kitchen islands, a mini chandelier offers a touch of elegance in this casual space.
On the Porch
For covered porches and patios, a weather-resistant chandelier lets you add ambiance outdoors. Rustic lantern styles work nicely.
In the Office
In a home office, try suspending a chandelier over a desk or lounging area to class it up.
The Ceiling Medallion
Often paired with chandeliers is a decorative medallion at the ceiling. Medallions provide ornamental detail and give the chandelier a finished look.
LOOMLAN has tips on picking the right medallion design to match your chandelier style - from modern to traditional.
Get the Right Chandelier Height
How low or high you hang your chandelier also impacts the visual effect. Follow these guidelines:
- In entryways and foyers, hang chandeliers about 6-7 feet above the floor to clear people’s heads.
- In dining rooms, position chandeliers 32-36 inches above the table for ideal illumination.
- For chandeliers over kitchen islands, allow for at least 30 inches of clearance from the counter.
- In bedrooms, hang chandeliers 60-72 inches above the floor for sufficient lighting over beds.
- For porch and patio chandeliers, install 8-9 feet high so people can easily walk under them.
Consider your room proportions, chandelier size, and lighting needs when deciding on the ideal height. LOOMLAN’s chandelier buying guides provide more exact height recommendations.
Safety Tips for Chandeliers
While gorgeous, chandeliers require some safety precautions:
- If you have small children or rambunctious pets, steer clear of delicate crystals or beads that can be pulled off and swallowed.
- Select chandeliers with secure chain mounts and sturdy frames. Visually inspect for defects.
- For added security, use a retention chain - a thin chain with decorative beads that connects the chandelier to the ceiling. If the main chain fails, the chandelier is still supported.
- Check that chandelier frames and branches are made from fire-resistant materials.
- Make sure the chandelier you choose is rated for the size of light bulbs you plan to use so it doesn’t overheat. Don’t exceed wattage limits.
- Hire a professional electrician to install hardwired chandeliers. Do not take risks by handling electrical wiring yourself.
By selecting a high-quality chandelier and taking sensible precautions, you can safely enhance your home’s beauty with this timeless lighting fixture.
Helpful Tips for Cleaning Chandeliers
To keep your chandelier sparkling, be diligent about cleaning. Here are some tips:
- For crystal chandeliers, use a feather duster to regularly remove surface dust and debris between the prisms. Every 1-2 years, take down the chandelier for a deep clean.
- Clean each crystal with mild dish soap and water. For more stubborn grime, try a mix of vinegar and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Rinse and dry each piece thoroughly before putting the chandelier back up. Improper drying can leave spots and streaks.
- For non-crystal chandeliers, refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some shades and materials need extra gentleness.
- Consider crystal chandelier cleaning services to have professionals handle the intensive cleaning process while you avoid the hassle.
With regular upkeep, your investment in a chandelier will sparkle indefinitely. Contact LOOMLAN customer service for brand-specific cleaning recommendations.
Shop LOOMLAN’s Dazzling Chandelier Collection
Now that you’re a chandelier expert, it’s time to start shopping for the perfect chandelier to elevate your home!
As you’ve seen, today’s chandeliers encompass a diverse range of styles, shapes, sizes, materials, and price points. There’s truly a chandelier design to complement any room and decor.
Rather than settling for a generic big box store chandelier, LOOMLAN offers an unrivaled selection of stunning chandeliers you won’t find anywhere else.
LOOMLAN meticulously curates its inventory from the most coveted chandelier brands across the globe. Shop premium Waterford, Schonbek, Metallic Design and Cyan Design crystal chandeliers. Plus artisan brand chandeliers like Cyan Design, CWI Lighting, Cyan Design, and ECI lighting.
The scope is truly amazing, from ultra luxury Swarovski crystal chandeliers to budget-friendly styles under $1000.
Browse LOOMLAN’s expansive chandelier collection here which is organized by style, shape, material, finish, theme and more to simplify your shopping.
Plus, LOOMLAN provides all the product details like chandelier width, chain length, bulb type, crystal type, and other specs so you can confirm the right size, lighting and look.
The chandelier possibilities at LOOMLAN are endless! Narrow down your options using the filters. Sort by bestselling, customer favorites, discounts, etc. Read through the hundreds of 5-star chandelier reviews from fellow shoppers. Take advantage of Free Shipping on orders $49+ and easy returns to confidently purchase your chandelier.
Let LOOMLAN’s chandelier experts help you find your dream fixture. Contact our customer service team with any questions - we are happy to provide personalized recommendations!
With this comprehensive chandelier buying guide under your belt and LOOMLAN’s unparalleled selection, you are guaranteed to find a showstopping chandelier to elevate your home in style. Your new chandelier is waiting - happy shopping!