How to Choose a Chandelier
December 16, 2022
Tips from Our Expert Movers on Picking the Best Chandelier
The overall look and feel of a room is something to consider when you’re in the market to list your home or want to change the vibe once you’ve moved in to your new place. Additionally, merely changing out a chandelier or two can essentially reinvent a space without a drastic overhaul.
Chandeliers might be found in the foyer, the dining room, the kitchen, or a hallway. They can also be incorporated to any high ceiling space where you’d like to add a special focal point. If a space is too big or too small, it can appear out of proportion and disjointed, so you’ll want to take good measurements, well before you start shopping.
One basic rule of thumb when you’re selecting a chandelier is to add the total feet into your measurements. Here’s the formula, if you’re shopping for it yourself:
Take the Width of the room (in feet) + add the Length of the room (in feet), which equals the diameter or width of a chandelier (in inches).
For example, that means a standard 12×14-foot room would mean 12 + 14 = 26 inches in diameter for the light fixture width. This formula isn’t set in stone, of course, but it helps to offer a solid proportion guide (and generally speaking, a minimum size) when you’re in the market for a new chandelier. Likewise, if the light is the center point of a seating area, then measure the seating area to get an approximate size, then double the measurement.
For instance, when your centered seating area is 6 feet from one wall and 8 feet from another, then add 6 feet to 8 feet which equals 14, multiplied by 2 to equal 28 … which you then convert into 28 inches for the appropriately sized light fixture’s diameter.
Once you determine the width of the fixture, next it’s time to consider the vertical height you would want for the room.
Here are a few more guidelines to consider:
A chandelier over a dining room should be low enough to offer solid lighting, but not too low to interrupt conversation with your family and visiting company. Generally speaking, around 30 to 34 inches above the table is a good idea.
A chandelier above the kitchen island should be centered above the middle of island, and also hanging close to 30 to 36 inches above the island.
In an entryway or Living Room, be sure the room clears the front door, which means always having at least 7 feet of clearance from the floor. For a taller ceiling (more than 8 feet), a good measurement is an added three inches for every foot above 8 feet. For instance in a 12-foot ceiling, it could hang 8 feet off the ground. When there’s a two-story foyer involved, expert suggest hanging the bottom of the light fixture at the same level as the second story.
We hope this guide gives you a solid start to choosing a chandelier. Now on to the next part, hiring an electrician!
Whenever you’re ready to move across town or across the country, Beltmann is here and ready to help you move and/or store all your belongings for your next home. Contact us today to get a quote, and find out why we are the best in the business.
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