What's the Correct Chandelier Size?
Decide where the chandelier is going to be installed to determine the size you need. Once you know that, use the following guidelines:
- In a Dining Room: the simple sizing rule is that your chandelier should be about 12 inches narrower than the dining table surface.
- The design should also have at least 4 feet of distance from the room walls.
- Following these guidelines will give you a chandelier that will appear to fill the space without overcrowding it. For small spaces and smaller tables, you may want to try pendant lighting instead.
- In a Living Room or Entryway: for every foot of ceiling height allow 2-3 inches in chandelier height.
- For example, a 9-foot ceiling would require a 27-inch high design.
- To determine the width needed, add the length and width of your room and convert the total to inches.
- For example, a room that's 12-feet x 14-feet would require a design that's around 26-inches wide (12 plus 14 gives you the width of 26).
How to Hang a Chandelier
Finding the correct chandelier height can be problematic unless you know the dimensions of the room. Use the following guidelines to help you through the process.
- When hanging over a dining room table, for an 8-foot standard ceiling, the bottom of the chandelier should hang thirty to thirty-four inches over the table.
- Add three inches more for each additional foot of ceiling height.
- If you are hanging a large chandelier or one that is very heavy, we suggest using a joist brace above the junction box to help carry the weight. You may wish to consult a professional electrician for such an installation.
- For traditional designs, you can add a decorative cord or chain cover to dress up the final look.
- When hanging a chandelier with a chain, trim the chain to the hang height required. Do the same with pendants that hang from a cord.
- Landings and entryways usually have high ceilings that are perfect for tall chandeliers; hang these so there is a minimum 8-foot clearance.
- Remember that the higher a design hangs, the smaller it looks, so go with a larger size if the space is large.
Chandeliers Brands and Trends
Lamps Plus offers a wide selection of chandeliers, including top quality brands such as Schonbek, James Moder and Vienna Full Spectrum. Look for free shipping on hundreds of our best designs. Embellish a small alcove, create an elegant entryway, or add a charming touch to the dining room or bedroom with luxury looks in crystal, bronze, antique brass and more. Or try a wood chandelier which brings a fresh look to modern and farmhouse inspired spaces alike. In conjunction with other modern lighting, these designs serve a functional purpose while being stylistically right on trend.
Still not sure what fixture is right for your space? Our expert lighting associates are available to help. Call us toll-free or check out our online resource, "How to Buy a Chandelier" for more tips.