Indoor lighting is fun and fabulous, and there is no place like the dining room chandelier that has more power to make a statement.  Changing the fixture above your table doesn’t require a remodel, just a really stunning replacement that is the right size, shape, and style for your home.  Which one is right?  Here are the basics for taking the headache (and neck ache) out of craning your head for hours at your local lighting gallery.

Image via: James Glover Residential & Interior Design

Size

The size of your dining room and your table will quickly narrow your choices.  The chandelier should be about one-third the width of the table, particularly with a round shape.  A 60-inch round means that a chandelier about 20 inches in diameter will look well proportioned.  Ideally, you should hang any chandelier 30 inches above the table (from the bottom of the fixture to the top of the table); this allows for even lighting and space for a tall centerpiece like cut flowers.

Image via Vok Design Group

Shape

While you can add lots of dimension with a your dining room lighting, one important rule is that any chandelier should be centered over the table itself, regardless of the room.  In an open floor plan, or a dining room with a buffet and other furniture, your table may not actually be in the center of the room where the fixture is mounted.  If this is the case, an electrician can move the location of the fixture without much trouble so that you will be able to update the lighting as often as you want in the future without needing to repeat the process.  If you have a large space, focus on finding a bold chandelier with plenty of three-dimensional impact so it seems visually larger.

Image via: Ideas Home Design

Style

Think big picture here: what is the style of your home?  If you don’t want to replace the fixture often, choose something in harmony with your architecture for timelessness.  If you like to be on-trend, consider a chandelier that is a bold contrast from your décor.  If you have a very industrial design, a crystal chandelier will soften the look and add visual interest.  Keep your whole design inspiration in mind while shopping, and have fun!

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