Tips to Pick the Right Chandelier Size for Your Room

Waverly Chandelier - 6 Light

Available in every decorative style, chandeliers add both presence and weight to a room. Whether hung above a dining room or kitchen table, or used as general lighting in foyers, powder rooms, bedrooms, etc., they bring the glow of candlelight to any setting. We offer many ways to find a chandelier that distinguishes your style.

What is a Chandelier?

A chandelier is a suspended lighting fixture featuring multiple branches, each potentially hosting one or more lights. While chandelier sizes may differ, they typically serve as the focal point of a room. So, whether you are installing a new chandelier or simply exploring options, knowing the key components of a chandelier is essential for making informed decisions and achieving the desired aesthetic impact.

How to determine the appropriate width of a Chandelier?

The size of the chandelier depends on the room and table size. To determine the size of a chandelier for a dining room based on the room size, add the length and width of the room in feet and substitute inches for feet, giving you the width of an appropriately-sized chandelier for the room. For example, for a 10’x13′ dining room, the length and width adds up to 23 which means width of the chandelier should a 23”. For determining the size of a chandelier based on your table size, the chandelier should be at least 12″ smaller in width than the width of the dining table.

How to determine the appropriate height of a Chandelier?

It is recommended to have 3″ for each additional foot of space between the floor and ceiling. Thus, you can multiply your ceiling height (in feet) by 3 to get the appropriate height of a chandelier. For example, if your ceiling height is 10″, the chandelier height should be about 30″ (10x3).

What is the appropriate size of a Chandelier for a dining room?

You can hang chandeliers above a dining table or kitchen island. Below is a diagram for placement of chandeliers. In dining rooms with 8′ ceilings, hang chandeliers about 30″ above the table. (Add 3″ for each foot of ceiling height over 8′.) Remember to order extra chain for higher ceilings.

What should be the size of a Chandelier above a Foyer?

The chandelier's bottom should be at least 7 feet above the floor. For every foot of ceiling height, raise the chandelier by an additional 2–3 inches. For instance, if you have a 10-foot-high ceiling, choose a chandelier that measures approximately 20–30 inches in height. In foyers with windows, position the chandelier at the center of the window. For a two-story foyer, ensure that the he does not hang lower than the second floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Chandelier Shades?

Chandelier shades can dramatically change the look and style of your chandelier. While they are not necessary, they do reduce glare and help to direct light down where needed. Keep in mind that chandelier shades will add 2″ to 4″ to the total width of the chandelier.

What wattage does a Chandelier Need?

Most people don’t realize that the maximum wattage maximum of a chandelier is determined not only by the wattage listed on the socket, but also by the chandelier shades used on it! If the wattage differs between your shade and your socket, always go with the lower wattage. Smaller shades limit maximum wattage. The mood and intensity of a chandelier is best controlled by a dimmer.

How to calculate chandelier size ?

Add the length and width of the room in feet to get the ideal diameter in inches. For example, if the room is 15 feet long and 7 feet wide, the ideal diameter is 22 inches.