When you think of “chandeliers,” does a big entryway come to mind? Or maybe you think of a
grand dining room in a fancy castle. But a chandelier isn’t just for medieval mansions; they are
for your home, too!
A chandelier is a decorative frame hung from the ceiling with light bulbs or candles. The main
difference between chandeliers and pendant lights is that a chandelier has many lights, while a
pendant has just one. Traditionally, chandeliers are more decorative, but contrary to belief,
they do not have to be large. They come in all sizes.
Choosing A Chandelier
The room where you will hang a chandelier will be the basis for your decisions. You need to
consider the size of the room, the height of the chandelier, the brightness level, and the style.
The chandelier size should be proportionate to the room it’s in. You wouldn’t want a tiny
chandelier swallowed up in a large dining room or a big chandelier dominating a bathroom
space. It’s all about balance!
Hanging Height
The height of your chandelier depends again on where it will hang. The bottom should be 32 to
34 inches above the tabletop for chandeliers hung over a dining room table. The bottom should
be at least 7 feet above the floor in any room.
Suppose you hang a chandelier over your kitchen island. In that case, like a dining room, the
bottom should be 32 to 34 inches over the counter for best results. However, remember that
your chandelier should be low enough to provide light but not so much that it obstructs your
vision.
When hanging a chandelier in a two-story entryway, the fixture should be attractive from all
angles. You should be able to see it from below, at eye level, and even above.
Because water is an added element, you should exercise more caution in a bathroom.
Bathroom chandeliers need to be at least three feet away from bathtubs and showers. You also
want to ensure your bathroom has proper ventilation to avoid water-related issues.
Brightness
Chandeliers have the potential to transform a room. Depending on placement, you will need
different brightness levels. Over a kitchen island, you want something brighter to see while you
cook. However, you may prefer a lower, more romantic level in the dining room. Add a dimmer
for rooms where you need more versatility in your lighting level!
Types of Chandeliers
Chandeliers have been and always will be in style. They have been in homes since people first
used candles to light them, but like anything else, the style changes. With so many styles and
variations, you will surely be able to find the perfect fit for your home!
The most popular chandelier shapes include tiered, wagon wheel, drummed, globe, sphere, and
rectangle. The main styles include candle, shaded, sputnik, lantern, and statement—each
relatively self-explanatory. Materials range from dark black to every metal imaginable; some
have shapes and other sparkling crystals. As far as aesthetics go, there are endless possibilities.
Installing Chandeliers
As with any electrical project, you need to exercise caution. Most chandeliers have the proper
wiring and chain to install them effortlessly in any space. However, their weight and location
may still require professional installation. Installation should comply with local electrical codes
and regulations. Always consult with a qualified electrician for proper installation and
compliance. Who better than JQ, your neighborhood electrician? Give JQ Electric a shout today!
