Best Chandeliers for Your Home

A chandelier's type describes its structure, and each type is available in a variety of styles.

Crystal chandeliers are the most traditional and popular type of chandelier, but the ornate glasswork may not fit with the look of every home. The right chandelier for your home may not feature glasswork and instead have a design that relies on natural
wood, exposed metal or unique pendant
shapes. Don’t be afraid to consider
types of chandeliers that create interesting contrast with your existing decor.

Once you've chosen the type of chandelier you want, it's time to explore styles. The style of a chandelier describes its general look and effect on the room.

Modern chandeliers, rustic chandeliers and cottage chandeliers have recently gained popularity in the US.

Bohemian chandeliers have a vintage look
that often uses bronze with beads and ornate glass. Bohemian style decor embraces the unusual and the artistic. Because this style is naturally unconventional, a Bohemian chandelier might mix and match colors, materials and textures. These chandeliers work as their own statement piece or as a part of a collection of unique decorations.

Classic chandeliers have a traditional design that matches any home without much flourish. These are the best chandeliers for
when you want an understated look that doesn’t distract from the rest of your decor.
Typically, classic is the most affordable style
because it’s so popular and widely used.

Coastal chandeliers bring the look and feel of the waterside to your home. This style is ideal for rooms with a relaxed, natural feel. Pair these chandeliers with light woods, ocean-inspired hues and soft, inviting furniture.

Cottage chandeliers have
an elegant simplicity that matches many styles of homes. Cottage decor feels cozy and lived-in,
so chandeliers in this style may have elements that appear vintage or repurposed.

Glam chandeliers have an imaginative and original look that features a lot of glass and glamour. Glass, crystal and mirrors reflect light to create shimmering beauty. These are the best chandeliers for dining rooms or master bedrooms that have
a big, luxurious impact.

Industrial chandeliers have a modern, bare bones look. This chandelier style often features exposed hardware, bronze or other dark metals and reclaimed wood. Industrial chandeliers suit many contemporary styles, so you don’t need to have other industrial pieces to make one of these chandeliers blend seamlessly with your home.

Mediterranean chandeliers are ideal for Middle Eastern looks or glam decor. Bright golds, bronzes, yellows and other warm colors are prominent in this style.

Mid-century modern style
embodies clean lines and simple silhouettes. A mid-century modern chandelier often utilizes glass shades and a frame inspired by Space Age styling.

Simple, casual and contemporary, minimalist chandeliers can match any room’s aesthetic at a low cost. These chandeliers will never overwhelm a space, making them a great match for smaller rooms that you want to make feel more spacious.

Clean geometry creates contemporary style. Modern chandeliers use natural materials and can feature exposed structural elements similar to industrial chandeliers.
While black chandeliers and white chandeliers are the
most common colors
in this style, modern chandeliers
also often feature bold accent colors and
metallics.

Rustic chandeliers often utilize wood or wood-look pieces. This style is inspired by nature and ideal for country-style rooms.
Rustic pieces can also mix well with industrial decor, since both styles frequently feature bronze chandeliers and distressed wood accents.

Transitional chandeliers complement a range of decor
and can bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary styles. These chandeliers have the most variety and versatility. They capture
an ideal balance of function and form.

Follow these three easy steps to get the right size chandelier:

• Measure the length and width of the room in feet (ex: 12 ft. + 10 ft.)
• Add the numbers together (12 ft.
  + 10 ft. = 22 ft.)
• This number, in inches, is the suggested width of your chandelier (22 in.)

Chandeliers are also
classified by the direction in which they cast light: upward, downward or ambient.

• Upward chandeliers cast light from the base of the chandelier up to the ceiling. This light direction creates softer lighting that is great for decorative purposes.
• Downward chandeliers cast light from the base of the chandelier down to the floor, table or onto other pieces of furniture or household items. This light direction creates more direct light that is great for task lighting.
• Ambient chandeliers cast light in all directions. This light direction creates a glowing effect for full illumination.
• Some chandeliers are hybrids that cast light in more than one direction. For example, multi-select chandeliers cast light upward and downward.

Tip: Dimmers work very well with chandeliers to adjust the ambience in the room.