Light From Above: Choosing the Right Chandelier

Ever notice how the most overlooked details can often have the biggest impact? By replacing a ho-hum light fixture with a charming chandelier, you can instantly transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary. But hanging it is the easy part—with the hundreds of different styles and sizes, choosing one chandelier can be a daunting prospect. Here are some designer suggestions:

• Choose a style that blends with your décor. A chandelier is a somewhat permanent home accent. You don’t want to have to switch it out every time you make a décor update. If you plan to stick to a contemporary look, choose a modern chandelier in chrome, glass, or metal. If your tastes fall on the traditional side, your light fixture should reflect that.
• Size matters. A large chandelier can dwarf a small powder room, foyer, or hallway. Similarly, a small lighting fixture won’t have much impact in a spacious area. Choose a chandelier that’s scaled to your space.
• Complement your table. If you’re choosing a chandelier to hang in your dining room, let the size and shape of the table dictate the dimensions and style of the light fixture. As a general rule, the chandelier should be approximately 1/3 the width of the table.