Create a Fun or Elegant Space With Chandeliers

Crystal chandeliers are a timeless addition to any décor and can easily make an average room spectacular. Bedrooms, dining rooms, staircases and even bathrooms can use them in 2015, and in the coming New Year they’re going to be a hot trend. Explore some ways a crystal chandelier can add some sparkle to any home.

A Rich History

After clear glass was invented in the 15th century, and lead crystal in 1675 many desired light fixtures using these materials, but back then it was too costly. In the 18th century glass makers figured a way to make it less expensive and the crystal chandelier became ever so popular.

A great deal of people found the crystals in a chandelier a beautiful addition because of the way they sparkled and threw light across the room. A historical lead crystal chandelier was heavier and required a lot of strength to hang. Today shoppers have more options!

How to Use a Crystal Chandelier

Chandeliers can make a great addition to any room in a home; however there are some guidelines to follow.

Sizing: For starters, making sure it’s the right size for the room is important. One trick that decorators use is to calculate the room’s dimensions in square feet then convert it to inches. The crystal chandelier should not exceed that size. There are some exceptions of course, and one of these is in a dining room. For this room, make the light fixture around half the size of the table.

Hanging: Crystal chandeliers should be hung low enough to provide adequate lighting, but not low enough to become a hazard to everyone in the home. A good rule is to not let it hang closer than four feet from walls or 48 inches to furniture. Remember these rules are just guidelines, when it comes to décor there are gray areas.

In a foyer, 7′ or higher is a great height. The crystal chandelier shouldn’t hang below the second story when hung in a stairwell or entryway

Create Ambiance

Use crystal chandeliers in a variety of rooms. Modern décor means that they are not limited to the dining room like in years past. Bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and home offices can all benefit from a little flair, as mentioned before. Placement will be the important factor in any case.

Never be afraid to play around with different styles. One can place a modern chandelier with vintage and antiques, and on the flip side a traditional crystal chandelier looks great with contemporary designed rooms.

Be sure to install a dimmer switch for ambiance. Sometimes the mood will call for soft lighting while other times it will scream for a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

Support It

Due to the fact that many crystal chandeliers are heavier than other light fixtures, there may need to be added support when hanging them. If the fixture is over 15 pounds there will likely need to be a special electrical box installed similar to those used for a ceiling fan.

If it’s an excess of 150 pounds then additional hardware will be needed. One can certainly rely on the expertise of a handyman or the professional at the store the chandelier is purchased from. There are also plenty of do-it-yourself videos and experts at the hardware store that are helpful. After all, having that beautiful chandelier fall and get destroyed would be heartbreaking!

https://youtu.be/ueKIAO0d8zs