Whether they're crystal, brass, contemporary or Victorian, chandeliers are a dramatic statement in dining rooms, living rooms and hallways. Deciding how low a chandelier should be hung is a matter of both practicality and individual taste. Considerations include the location of the chandelier, its size and the size of the room and the object underneath it.
Where Will the Chandelier Hang?
Usually, chandeliers are hung above dining tables, but they can be hung anywhere. Above a coffee table and sofa seating arrangement or near a reading chair are two other possibilities. A in an entryway or hallway can look beautiful, too.
Select the appropriate size for the space. If the space has 20-foot ceilings and will hang above a large dining table, pick a large chandelier. If the space has 8-foot ceilings and a small table, use a small chandelier.
How Low Should It Go?
The chandelier should be at about eye level when standing up, which translates to about 30 to 39 inches above the table. This depends on how tall you are, of course; feel free to move it higher or lower. If the ceiling is high and the chandelier very wide, it may look better moved up higher, so as not to obstruct view. A chandelier hung lower may create better light and a feeling of intimacy.
In hallways, hang the chandelier close to the ceiling, unless the ceiling is very high.
Over living room seating arrangements, the height of the chandelier depends on taste. It can be positioned low over a coffee table or higher up over a sofa (so the seated person won't hit his head when standing).
Wattage to Use
Twenty-five-watt bulbs are sufficient for most chandeliers, because most chandeliers have at least four light bulbs. Take care when using the new high-efficiency bulbs; make sure the existing light covers will fit over the new style of bulb.
Installing a dimmer switch is a smart option, because then the lighting can be turned up high or low, depending on the mood desired.
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