How to Buy The Right Chandelier for Your Home
Chandeliers are one of the most elegant lighting fixtures that have been popular among Australian homeowners for a long time. The good part about chandeliers is they not only illuminate your space during the night time but also serve as a decorative element of your home interior.
However, among the variety of choices available, it becomes quite confusing to choose a suitable chandelier for your home. To help you out, we have created this detailed guide on how to choose the right chandelier for your space. By referring to tips mentioned in this blog, you can understand your requirements and select the perfect chandelier among the plenty of choices available.
Tips to Buy the Right Chandelier for Your Home
Understand Your Space
Before you purchase a chandelier, it’s essential to evaluate the room where you want to install it. Considering the space is crucial as it can affect the overall functionality and the visual appeal of the chandelier. You can consider factors such as the room’s dimensions, ceiling height, and existing decor. A chandelier should complement the overall design without overwhelming the space.
For rooms with low ceilings, a flush or semi-flush mount chandelier might be ideal as it sits closer to the ceiling, providing a sleek look without taking up too much vertical space. For such cases, you can consider chandelier models such as Chelton Small 4 Light Chandelier or Chandelier 5 Lights - R2015-5C-CH as they can be installed close to ceilings and provide a beautiful look to your space.
In contrast, rooms with high ceilings can accommodate larger, more dramatic chandeliers that create a grand, eye-catching effect. Some products you can consider for high ceilings are Negresco Sp8 Chandelier and Gioconda Sp12 Chandelier. They can provide a luxurious look to your home interior.
Pay attention to the interior features of the room, such as moulding, windows, and other light fixtures, to ensure the chandelier integrates seamlessly.
Consider the Functionality
Generally, a chandelier is more popular as a decorative piece or focal element instead of a lighting fixture. However, when used strategically, your chandelier can also be used as an effective lighting fixture. So before you buy a chandelier in Australia, make sure you are clear about its functionality.
Clarify the primary purpose of the chandelier. Is it intended to be the main source of light, or will it serve as an accent piece? For dining rooms, a chandelier above the table can provide both illumination and a focal point. In living rooms or bedrooms, it might serve as a supplementary light source, adding a touch of elegance without being overly bright.
If the chandelier is meant to be the main light source, consider one with multiple bulbs or tiers such as Pegaso Sp12 Chandelier 12 Lights that can provide ample light coverage throughout the space.
For accent lighting, a smaller, more decorative chandelier such as Millennium Sp5 Chandelier or Chandelier Light W240mm Brass can enhance the ambience without overpowering the room.
Along with that, you also need to focus on the placement of the chandelier to define its functionality. Whether you want to install it in the living room, dining area, or entrance, select the chandelier accordingly.
Select A Suitable Size
Another essential factor to consider is the size of your chandelier. Selecting the right size of the chandelier is crucial to ensure it fits proportionately within the room. A larger chandelier in a small dining area will make the room clustered. Whereas a small chandelier with a large living room will be hardly visible.
A general rule of thumb is to add the room’s length and width (in feet) and convert the sum to inches. For example, a room that is 12 feet by 14 feet would need a chandelier approximately 14+12 = 26 inches in diameter. However, it is not necessary that the size of the chandelier should be exactly the number you get; you can consider the clearance of a few inches.
Apart from the diameter, you also need to consider the height of the chandelier to make sure it looks good while providing adequate illumination. For dining tables, it should hang about 30 to 36 inches above the table’s surface.
In entryways or living rooms, ensure there is at least 7 feet of clearance from the floor to the bottom of the chandelier. Proper sizing ensures the chandelier enhances the room’s aesthetics without overwhelming the space or appearing too small.
Consider the Style
Chandeliers come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern, rustic to contemporary. When you buy chandeliers online, you will find numerous options. Select a style that complements the room’s decor and your personal taste.
Traditional chandeliers often feature intricate designs with crystals or ornate metalwork, adding a classic touch. Modern chandeliers may have clean lines and minimalist designs, suitable for contemporary spaces. Rustic chandeliers, with their natural materials and earthy tones, can enhance a cosy, farmhouse aesthetic. Ensure the chosen style harmonises with other elements in the room to create a cohesive look.
Apart from the style, you should also think of the colour and the design of the chandelier. Whether you want the elegant gold or brass colour or sleek white or black colour, make sure the chandelier goes with the overall interior decor.
For instance, a crystal chandelier such as Florian Sp12 12 Lights might look out of place in a minimalist room but perfect in a classic or luxurious setting with a high ceiling and spacious living room. Whereas for a home with a minimalistic home interior and simple design layout, the Corte Sp5 Chandelier can perfectly complement the overall decor of the space, elevating its visual appeal.
Choose the Right Material
Similar to the ensign, style, and colours, chandeliers come in different materials. The material of the chandelier affects both its appearance and durability. Common materials include crystal, glass, metal, and wood. Every material has its unique characteristics.
For example, crystal chandeliers exude luxury and are perfect for formal settings, with their ability to refract light beautifully, creating a dazzling effect. Glass chandeliers can offer a sleek, modern look, while metal chandeliers are versatile and durable, suitable for various styles. Whereas, chandeliers made from wood and natural resin bring warmth and a natural feel, ideal for rustic or coastal interiors.
So when deciding which chandelier to choose, you should take into account the overall decor and aesthetic of your home. For traditional home designs, you can opt for metallic chandeliers such as the Heritage Pendant with 5 Lights. On the other hand, for homes with modern home interiors, you can opt for the Hyort Chandelier made from natural resin to complement the style of your space.
Consider the maintenance requirements of each material, as some may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their appearance. Crystal chandeliers, for instance, need regular dusting to keep their sparkle, while metal chandeliers might need occasional polishing to prevent tarnishing.
Installation and Maintenance
Another thing you should consider is the installation and maintenance of the chandelier. Professional installation is often recommended for most chandeliers. Especially for large or complex fixtures, correct installation is essential to ensure safety and proper electrical connections. Ensure the chandelier is securely mounted and compatible with the existing electrical setup.
So when it comes to selecting the chandelier for your home, you need to consider installation factors like the availability of space and arrangements for electrical connections. You can also consult an electrician to understand which chandelier is a good fit for your home.
Similar to the installation, you should also think of the maintenance of your chandelier before you buy it. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and bulb replacement, is necessary to keep the chandelier looking its best. Dusting the fixture and occasionally polishing the metal or crystal parts will help maintain its sparkle and appeal.
For intricate designs, use a soft brush or specialised cleaning tools to reach difficult areas. Check for any loose parts or wear and tear regularly to ensure the chandelier remains safe and functional. If you opt for fragile materials such as crystal and glass, you will need to take extra care of your chandelier.
Budget Considerations
Along with all the other factors, price is a major thing to consider. Chandeliers vary widely in price, so it’s important to establish a budget before shopping. While high-end chandeliers can be quite expensive, many affordable options offer style and quality.
Remember to factor in additional costs such as installation, which may require professional assistance. Don’t compromise on quality for the sake of cost; a well-made chandelier is a worthwhile investment that will enhance your home for years to come.
Look for sales, discounts, or second-hand options to find high-quality pieces within your budget. Investing in a durable, timeless chandelier can save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Your One Stop Destination to Buy Chandeliers in Australia
If you are searching for the best quality chandeliers in Australia, Lights4less is the one-stop destination for you. We have a variety of quality chandeliers from top brands. You will get to choose a wide range of designs, colours, materials, and features. So do not wait any longer, visit our website and order the chandelier of your choice today!