Choosing a chandelier goes beyond adding a lighting element to your room: from the simplest to the most ornate designs, it can help you emphasize the sleek, majestic or nostalgic look of your décor!
Given its importance and the central role that it'll immediately seize in your room, you should spend some time understanding exactly what type of chandelier you need and what would work well with the rest of your furniture and décor style.
If you follow our 5 handy tips, there will be no risk of disappointment!
3. What Are the Different Types of Chandeliers When It Comes to Shape?
Chandeliers are available in lots of different designs, but choosing a particular shape will immediately allow you to narrow down your choice:
Whether they have candles or electric bulbs at the end of each arm, traditional chandeliers are better suited to add a stylish and dramatic touch to old-style and fancy décors;
Wagon wheel models can add a rustic element to wider rooms;
Tiered and empire chandeliers are perfect for the classiest and most elegant rooms;
There are now lots of unique shapes that follow interesting geometric patterns, too: they're usually a better choice for more modern settings.
4. What Is the Right Finish for My Chandelier?
Black finishes are the most versatile, as they can complement most color palettes and décor styles;
Gold, silver and chrome models are a bold statement that can look majestic in elegant rooms, but could easily look out of place in more rustic or humble décors;
A white finish can help your chandelier's structure stand out if it's mounted on a ceiling of a different, darker color;
Bronze options are perfect to mix tradition and a touch of modernity;
Nickel and brass finishes are ideal for the most modern rooms and for chandeliers in unique designs that emphasize the arms and shapes of their structures.
5. What Is the Right Style of Chandelier for My Décor?
Given its size and accent function, a chandelier can make or break the style of your room! You should identify its palette and the décor style that you're trying to keep consistent before choosing a chandelier that could otherwise end up looking like an unfortunate mismatch:
For a modern feel, experiment with creative geometric shapes and sleek lines; black, nickel and brass finishes work very well with this style;
For a traditional and cozy atmosphere, stick to the most classic chandeliers with different arms or a wagon wheel shape, consider adding wooden elements, and look for drum-shaped fabric chandeliers for your bedroom;
Sputnik designs (with multiple straight arms surrounding the chandelier's core) are one of the most recognizable signature elements of mid-Century modern décors, especially when they feature bronze or black finishes;
If you're a fan of the aesthetically-pleasing rawness of industrial décors, you can either look for very thin metal structures (such as bare wagon wheel models) or designs that highlight the exposed lightbulbs rather than the structure itself; you could combine metal and wooden elements, or choose brass and copper finishes;
Traditional chandeliers with harmonious arms and a discolored white finish will immediately convey a shabby chic look;
To recreate the majestic feel of French country styles, consider actual candles or candle-shaped bulbs and look for the most decorated and harmonious armed designs;
Rather than compromising on the number of lights for your minimalist room, avoid a cluttered look by choosing very thin, bare structures; add white, wooden, brass or copper elements for some Scandinavian vibes;
If you're after a bohemian room, you're freer to experiment with eclectic textures and patterns, such as wicker designs or colorful teardrop models.
