Chandelier Basics. Versatile Elegance With A Variety Of Applications

by: Chuck Lunsford

One of my favorite topics is the chandelier because of its history as a method of lighting that was used before the sixteenth century. The earliest chandeliers were very basic, almost primitive devices that involved two pieces of wood connected together to form a cross. A spike was inserted at each end to hold the candles and a rope or chain was connected to the crosspiece and then suspended from the ceiling. As a former antique dealer, I’ve found that nearly all of the earliest chandeliers were destroyed and very few authentic examples remain in existence today.

The chandelier found its resurgence in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and was found in the great palaces of Europe and America. They soon began to find their way into some of the more expensive mansions and private homes in this country and abroad and have been around ever since.

The industrial revolution provided the impetus for mass production of this once exclusive lighting fixture and today, chandeliers can be found in many homes and in any number of rooms in these homes. One of the major appeals of the chandelier is the drama it creates. It automatically lends character and a somewhat regal atmosphere to an otherwise plain room.

One of the major appealing characteristics of today’s chandeliers, are their versatility. A kitchen can be transformed into a high-class dining area with the addition of the right chandelier. A large bathroom can be given an air of elegance with the installation of a chandelier. Some homeowners will even use a chandelier in the master bedroom to give it that special feeling.

Chandeliers are available in all kinds of styles, shapes and can be made from a variety of materials. Although the most common type of chandelier is made of crystal, faux candles and other types of lighting is also available. One of the best ways to find the style and size chandelier that will best complement your décor, is to go online and look at what’s available.

Keep in mind that the chandelier usually draws the immediate attention of a visitor so it should fit the basic décor of your home. Proper sizing is critical. A chandelier that is too large for the space it occupies will overpower the room and may even lend a sense of claustrophobia to the visitor. On the other hand, a chandelier that is too small for the room just looks out of place regardless of its style.

Although most chandeliers can easily light an entire room, the result can often be a harsh or raw look. Many decorators prefer matching wall sconces and have both the chandelier and the sconces on dimmers so that just the right balance of light can be achieved.

Always keep in mind that chandelier and elegance go together conceptually. In fact, many consider a chandelier to be a piece of art.

Here are some practical considerations to keep in mind when looking for and eventually installing a chandelier. Sketch the room and include dimensions. Consider the size of any prospective chandelier in terms of the ratio of its size to the room where it will be installed. Some individuals fall in love with a particular chandelier, purchase and install it and find that it just doesn’t “work”. This is usually the result of improper sizing.

If you intend to hang the chandelier yourself, it’s important that you keep some important considerations in mind. Most chandeliers are much heavier than the light fixture that they are replacing. A typical light fixture is installed in an electrical box that is anchored on one side to a ceiling joist. This usually provides sufficient support for the fixture.

The chandelier, on the other hand, usually requires much greater support. One option is to remove the existing fixture and the electrical box. Then, install a fan brace that is expandable so that it will fit tightly between two ceiling joists. Fan braces are most typically used to install heavy ceiling fans. Once the brace is expanded to fit tightly between the joists, attach it according to the instructions it came with and then bolt a new electrical box to the center of the brace. The brace, supported by the two ceiling joists, will support considerable weight (up to 150 or more pounds). Attach the chandelier to the new electrical box and you’re ready to see the results.

Also, keep in mind that this is not a one-person job.

The chandelier or chandeliers that you install in your home can change the look and the feel of the rooms where they are installed and in fact can provide a new feel of elegance to the entire home.