Modern Chandeliers: What to Look For
Chandeliers are all the rage in interior design right now. These light fixtures are used in just about every room in the home from bedrooms to bathrooms, kitchens to closets, and even in traditional locations such as the dining room or the foyer. Therefore, it’s easy to see why everyone wants to get in on the trend and purchase their own chandelier. However, chandeliers are traditionally ornate fixtures, not at all like the modern version you might be picturing for your bedroom. Here are a few tips and tricks on what to look for in a modern chandelier.
Unique Shapes
Chandeliers used to be all about a flowing shape with multiple arms and candelabra style lights. Today’s chandeliers are light fixtures that feature unique shapes and designs.
For example, a contemporary styled light fixture might feature a couple dozen blown glass bubbles hanging from a square pseudo-medallion that is affixed directly to the ceiling. By all means, it still fits the traditional definition of a chandelier: multiple arms, each with its own light, all combined on a single light fixture.
Unique Color
Modern chandeliers aren’t all brass and crystal. In fact, modern designs aren’t shy about incorporating new colors into the light fixture. A traditional, romantic shape with crystal tear drops can become ultra modern when paired with a bright white drum shade or the arms are painted a bold black.
Remember, color doesn’t have to be neon. It can any color: black, white, blue, red, green, yellow and every hue in between.
Mix and Match Styles
Since you’re incorporating a light fixture like the chandelier into a non-traditional setting, chances are, you’ve got pretty modern tastes. That being said, you should consider mixing and matching different styles.
For example, if you’ve got a contemporary styled room, why not complement it with traditional, flowing crystal chandeliers with cascades of glass?
On the other hand, you could use a minimalist style chandelier in a traditional setting for a sleeker, unexpected touch.
Pay Attention to Materials
Before you knew better, you probably associated the word ‘chandelier’ with a tarnished brass fixture with a few too many clear accent pieces. Today, these light fixture can be made from a variety of materials.
Materials used in the modern chandelier of today include acrylic shades, glass diffusers, linen fabrics, silks, lacing, ribbon work, glass beads and so forth.
Size Matters
Not every room is large enough for a true chandelier. Here’s why: a true chandelier is a fixture that is a minimum of twelve inches in diameter. Chandelettes are light fixtures that are nine to twelve inches in size.
Anything smaller and your light fixture is no longer a chandelier or a chandelette, but a pendant light.
A chandelier can be a beautiful addition to a space. No other lighting fixture carries itself with such style and grace, no matter what the underlying style is. With so many different styles, shapes and other options to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the perfect match for your space. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Explore our wide variety of chandeliers, pendant lights, and hanging lanterns that complement any room!
About Kristen Crosby
Kristen is an avid design blogger who loves DIY projects. She gets her inspiration from fashion and music. Connect with Kristen, or find more home decor inspiration from Arcadian Home on Google Plus!
Tags: chandeliers, contemporary, crystal chandeliers, Pendant Lights
