How To Choose The Perfect Living Room Chandelier

The perfect living room chandelier is all about balance. In this article, we will go through all the tips and tricks you need to know before purchasing the ideal chandelier for your living room.

But before we do that, we need to understand the purpose of a chandelier in the living room - what it is used for - and how to complement it with your other light fixtures and decor.

1. Layering

Layering in lighting is the use of different types of fixtures to serve different purposes. We have three main layers of light:

1. Ambient
2. Task
3. Accent

Your new chandelier will cover your ambient light needs, which is the general illumination used in a room.

Fixtures like table lamps and downlighters (certain pendants, sconces, etc.) are used for task lighting - light we need to perform specific activities, such as reading a book or playing board games.

Accent lighting is covered by wall washers, picture lights, strategically positioned LED strips, and wall light art.

In order to have a well-balanced lighting scheme, you must cover all three layers of light.

Now that we saw the basics of light layering, let's see the size and positioning of your living room chandelier.

2. Size and positioning

The size and positioning of your new living room chandelier are super important! A chandelier that’s too large will feel overwhelming, while one that’s too small may go unnoticed. Here are a few tips to make sure your chandelier is just right for your space:

Room dimensions: Start by adding the width and length of your room (in feet), then convert this sum into inches for an approximate chandelier diameter. So, for example, if your room is 16 x 20 feet, aim for a chandelier around 36 inches wide. Simple no? Unfortunately, there is no such formula for the metric system, so you will have to do the conversions yourself.

Ceiling height: If your ceiling is higher than 9 feet, you have some room to play with larger, tiered chandeliers that make a statement. For standard ceilings, opt for a fixture that hangs around 7 feet above the floor. And if you have a low ceiling, a flush-mount chandelier can still give that elegant look without taking up too much vertical space.

Horizontal placement: For horizontal placement, make sure your chandelier is either centered in the living room or directly above the table. If you don't create this symmetry, you might make it feel "off". However, for larger rooms with contemporary design, you may even consider placing them off-center for an artsy feel. Do make sure it aligns with the flow and design of the room.

3. Style and material

Your chandelier can be the perfect way to introduce your unique style into your living room, whether you lean toward modern, rustic, classic, or even a blend of different themes.

For a modern look, seek out chandeliers with clean lines, geometric shapes, and metal or glass finishes. These designs are streamlined, giving your space a fresh, open feel. You can check out our selection here.

For a classic touch, a crystal chandelier can add elegance, creating a bit of traditional glam. While these look beautiful in formal settings, they can also stand out in a more eclectic room for a modern-meets-vintage vibe.

For a rustic feel, wooden or wrought-iron chandeliers bring warmth and character, especially if they come with Edison bulbs for a cozy old charm. They’re also fantastic in rooms with earthy tones and natural materials such as wood or stone.

4. Color temperature and dimming options

One thing I learned the hard way is that color temperature can make or break the feel of a room. Living rooms often benefit from a warm color temperature (around 2700 K to 3000 K), which creates an inviting and relaxed environment. Cooler lights can work for task areas, but for ambient lighting like chandeliers, a warm glow feels the most comfortable.

Also, dimmer options give you incredible control over your space. Imagine hosting a lively gathering with bright, cheerful lighting, then dimming it down for a cozy, intimate atmosphere afterward. Many modern chandeliers come with dimmable features, or you can install a dimmer switch to easily adjust brightness levels.

5. Complementing your chandelier with other fixtures

A chandelier may be the main star of your living room, but it’s not the only player. The goal is to create a harmonious blend with other light sources. Here’s how:

• Table lamps and floor lamps: These help fill in any dim corners and give you additional layers of light for reading or relaxing. Aim for styles that echo some elements of your chandelier, such as similar finishes or materials, so they feel cohesive.
• Wall sconces and picture lights: Wall sconces are perfect for adding a gentle glow along walls, while picture lights draw attention to art or photos. Together, these can add dimension without competing with the chandelier’s grandeur.
• Accent lights: These might be less prominent, but they can subtly enhance the room’s ambiance. LED strips or hidden fixtures behind shelves or under furniture bring warmth to the space and make it feel even more inviting.

Wrapping up

At the end of the day, the “perfect” chandelier is the one that feels like an extension of your personality and the story of your home. It’s about balancing style, size, functionality, and your unique taste. If you find a chandelier that resonates, trust your gut - it’s more than just a fixture; it’s a centerpiece that will illuminate countless moments.

Take your time exploring our options, and remember: the right chandelier will light up your room and your life!