Home Interior Design

By Mike Selvon

Choosing a quality chandelier can be tricky because there is such a variety to choose from. Yet, unlike wrought iron chandeliers or even some contemporary chandeliers, crystal chandeliers add old world flair and elegance to a home. Many decorators are now moving away from metal hanging lamps and incorporating chandeliers into rooms again. Here are some tips to help you decide if a crystal chandelier is the right kind of home lighting fixture for you.

Today, upscale homes install lighting chandeliers above the formal dining table, in guest halls, in large living rooms, or in entertainment areas. Room measurements play an integral role in choosing this type of lighting fixture. Before you even begin looking at your choices, you should measure the dimensions of your room.

A chandelier that looks perfect in a showroom may be too big or too small once you get it home. Measure the floor area, as well as the distance between the floor and the ceiling. If your ceiling is not that high or your home is not that big, then deciding on a big one could be a wrong idea.

Since they are usually quite huge, a large one would take up much space in your home. Therefore, choosing the right height is necessary to allow more space in your home and to make your house appear less crowded with furniture.

If you are choosing one for your dining room, then it would be best to measure the distance between the table and the ceiling. This step will help you gauge the right one needed for the area.

To get the most impact out of luxurious crystal chandeliers, you have to pick just the right spot to put it. Your personal taste, existing decor and the location where the fixture will be hung will ultimately decide what kind of chandelier you opt for.

The design of your chandelier should fit perfectly with the theme and style of the room that you plan to install it in. If you are looking for a vintage or classic look, then a crystal chandelier is a perfect choice.

If you prefer a more country feel, antler chandeliers can add a great touch to your room. If you want to add elegance to a hallway or even a kitchen, mini chandeliers can work wonders. It's best to select a design that will blend in perfectly with the area around it.

It's important to remember that chandeliers are more about style than function. If you require brightness, then you may want to consider other types of residential lighting fixtures, like hanging lamps.

However, the glow of the crystal pieces can be supplemented with other light sources, like candles or discreetly placed lamps. Generally, people prefer dimmer lighting in dining rooms so a crystal chandelier may be perfect for that room. If you need a brighter source for foyer lighting, you can also consider pot lighting or wall sconces.

Many people shy away from crystal chandeliers because of the upkeep involved. Aside from the crystal pieces and the other materials in a chandelier, you need to consider the bulbs used. Better, brighter and quality bulbs are needed to lessen the replacement needs.

Dust will inevitably find its way to your chandelier, so you'll definitely need to clean it periodically. If you hate cleaning and you don't have a maid, then perhaps a lighting fixture with a simpler design would be a better choice.