A chandelier makes a stunning decorative feature, but they require lots of breathing room to truly look magnificent. Therefore, it is extremely important that you choose the right size chandelier for your setting. In determining the correct size, you should consider; the height of the ceiling, proportion of the room, style of the room, supports in the ceiling and color in the room.

Chandeliers are no longer restricted to crystal styles that only look like they belong in a grand ballroom; they now come in a wide range of designs, suitable for virtually any room. The modern definition of a chandelier is simply a light fitting that is suspended from the ceiling with at least two or more light sources.

The height of the ceiling

One of the most important considerations is the height of the ceiling. There needs to be enough room for the chandelier to utilize an appropriate drop from the ceiling and then enough space between the bottom of the chandelier and where people's heads come to when standing. They can look quite ridiculous too close to the ceiling or too low overhead. So unless you have very tall ceilings, you will be restricted to a very small, or at least more of a horizontal style. Alternatively you could make use of an area that offers double the ceiling height such as the open area of a staircase. Remember that you need to allow around 7 foot under the bottom to allow people to freely move under the chandelier.

Proportion of the room

Not only do you need to consider the height of the ceiling, but the width and proportion of the room. A tall, narrow room may have the room for a chandelier to hang, but a wide, heavy design could make the room feel cramped horizontally. In this case a Garland style chandelier might be particularly well suited. This style incorporates delicate filigree metal that is worked around the bulb, they are typically longer then they are wide. If the room is large in expanse both width wise and height wise; a large, ornate chandelier may add warmth to a previously vast space. If the space if quite small in either direction, it is probably best to choose a small, light chandelier style. Wirework styles with tiny fairy style light bulbs are typically better suited to small rooms.

Style of the room

The style of your room will also govern the most appropriate chandelier size. A Victorian style room is supposed to look full, so it might suit a large sized chandelier. However, a minimalist room calls for a streamlined look and would only accommodate a small chandelier unless the room was very vast.

Support in the ceiling

A traditional, cut lead crystal chandelier is very heavy; original vintage pieces can weigh in excess of 200 pounds. So you need to ensure that your ceiling offers the necessary support for the size of chandelier you wish to purchase. In some cases large styles will require reinforcement of the ceiling joists to hold the weight.

Color of the room

Light colored rooms reflect light, but dark colors recede. If you have a dark colored room, you will require lots of space to help your chandelier look stunning. However, if you have a light colored room, you can get away with a little less.

A chandelier can add a glamorous touch to any room. Just remember that they are a decorative light source, rather then a practical one. They look best with low voltage or dimmed lamps. Therefore, you will require another source of light for practical applications.

Learn more about this author, Kimberley Heit.
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