Choosing A Bedroom Chandelier: Size, Style, And Space

Choosing a bedroom chandelier is an opportunity to express your personal style and create a unique, elegant space. Chandeliers add ambient lighting to a bedroom, enhancing the overall atmosphere and making the space more relaxing. When selecting a bedroom chandelier, it's important to consider the size of the room, the height of the ceiling, the aesthetic you want to achieve, and special features such as dimming capabilities. The bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven feet above the floor to prevent head injuries and obstructed views. To determine the appropriate size, add the length and width of the room in feet, and select a chandelier with a diameter in inches that matches this sum.

Choosing the right size chandelier

Measure the Room

To ensure your chandelier is proportional to the size of your bedroom, start by measuring the length and width of the room in feet. Adding these two numbers together will give you a recommended diameter for your chandelier in inches. For example, if your bedroom is 14 feet wide and 16 feet long, the ideal chandelier diameter would be 30 inches.

Consider Bed and Ceiling Height

The size of your bed and the height of your ceiling will also influence the appropriate size of your chandelier. Generally, a chandelier with a 36-inch diameter suits a king or queen-sized bed, while a 24-inch diameter chandelier complements a full or twin-sized bed. Additionally, ensure the bottom of the chandelier is at least seven feet from the floor to prevent any head injuries and avoid obstructing your TV viewing.

Create a Focal Point

If you want your chandelier to be the focal point of the room, consider choosing a slightly larger piece. Chandeliers are statement pieces, so it's better to err on the larger side if you're unsure. However, avoid an overly large chandelier that may overwhelm the space.

Layer Lighting

Remember that chandeliers are primarily decorative and ambient light sources. For functional task lighting, consider layering your bedroom lighting with bedside lamps, wall-mounted lights, or ceiling fixtures. This will ensure your space is appropriately lit, and the light sources are balanced.

Adjustable Lighting

To maximize the versatility of your chandelier, consider installing a dimmer switch. This will allow you to adjust the light level to suit different activities and create the desired ambiance in your bedroom.

Safety First

Always consult a licensed electrician when installing a chandelier. Some fixtures may require extra support or modified placement to ensure they are safely mounted.

Placement

Centred Placement

If you want to centre the chandelier in your bedroom, it will typically be placed over the foot of your bed. To determine the appropriate size for your chandelier, measure the length and width of your room and add those numbers together. Then, convert this sum to inches to get the ideal diameter for your chandelier. For example, if your room is 12 feet wide and 13 feet long, a chandelier with a diameter of around 25 inches would be a good fit.

Over the Bed Placement

Another popular option is to centre the chandelier directly over the bed. In this case, the size of your bed will be the main factor in determining the size of the chandelier. A large chandelier might overwhelm a smaller bed, while a mini-chandelier might look out of place over a king- or queen-sized bed. As a general rule, chandeliers with a 36-inch diameter suit king- or queen-sized beds, while those with a 24-inch diameter are better suited for full- or twin-sized beds.

Other Considerations

If you have a canopy bed, make sure to choose a chandelier that works with the height of your bed. For sloped ceilings, you'll need to select a chandelier that can be hung at an angle. The bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven feet from the floor to prevent any head injuries and avoid obstructing your TV viewing. Additionally, consider the height of your ceiling—a chandelier that is too large or too small may look out of proportion with the room.

Multiple Chandeliers

If you prefer not to have a single chandelier in the centre of the room, you can opt for two smaller flush-mount crystal chandeliers or pendant lights over your nightstands.

Design and aesthetics

When choosing a bedroom chandelier, there are several design and aesthetic factors to consider.

The design and aesthetics of a bedroom chandelier are essential to creating the desired atmosphere and ensuring the fixture is in proportion with the space. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Size and Scale: The size and scale of the chandelier should be appropriate for the bedroom. A general rule of thumb is to measure the length and width of the room in feet, add those numbers together, and select a chandelier with a diameter in inches that matches this sum. For example, if your bedroom is 12 feet wide and 13 feet long, choose a chandelier with a diameter of roughly 25 inches. Ensure the chandelier is not too large or too small in proportion to the room and the bed.
• Height: The height of the chandelier is crucial for both functionality and safety. The bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven feet above the floor to prevent head injuries and obstructed TV viewing.
• Style: The style of the chandelier should complement your personal taste and the overall design of the bedroom. Consider factors such as the shape, colour, and materials used. For a modern look, focus on satin nickel or chrome finishes, clean lines, and minimal ornate decoration. If you want a traditional or formal look, opt for elegant, curved designs with glass or crystal embellishments.
• Lighting Output and Direction: Consider the direction of the light output to avoid glare. Exposed bulbs may cause glare, so consider adding a dimmer switch to control the light output and create a more comfortable atmosphere.
• Dimming Capabilities: Installing a dimmer switch allows you to adjust the light level to suit different activities and create the desired ambiance. This is especially useful if you plan to use the chandelier as a supplementary light source alongside other lighting fixtures in the bedroom.
• Bed Placement: The placement of the chandelier in relation to the bed is important. If you centre the chandelier over the bed, ensure it is proportional to the bed size. A large chandelier may overwhelm a smaller bed, while a mini-chandelier may look out of place over a king- or queen-sized bed.
• Ceiling Height: If you have a sloped or vaulted ceiling, choose a chandelier that can be hung at an angle.
• Bed Type: If you have a canopy bed, select a chandelier that works with the height of the bed and does not feel cramped or overwhelming.
• Room Aesthetic: Consider the overall aesthetic you want to create in the bedroom. For example, a beachside bedroom may call for neutral tones and an elegant, linear chandelier, while a rustic bedroom with exposed ceiling beams may suit a round metal chandelier.

Lighting and brightness

Lighting Type

Chandeliers are typically used for ambient lighting, as opposed to task or direct lighting. They add a sophisticated and romantic element to the bedroom décor. When choosing a bedroom chandelier, look for one that has bulbs that are somewhat obscured to reduce glare and increase comfort. If you intend to use the chandelier as your primary light source, consider adding recessed cans, cove lighting, or wall sconces to provide additional accent lighting.

Dimming Capabilities

To maximize the versatility of your bedroom chandelier, consider installing a dimmer switch. This will allow you to adjust the light level to suit different activities and create the desired ambiance. For example, you may want brighter lighting when dressing or making the bed, and dimmer lighting when watching TV or relaxing. A dimmer switch can also help prolong the life of the bulbs.

Size and Placement

The size and placement of your bedroom chandelier are important for both aesthetic and functional reasons. To keep the chandelier in scale with the room, measure the length, width, and height of the bedroom. The bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven feet above the floor to prevent potential head injuries and obstructed TV viewing.

For centered placement, usually over the foot of the bed, use the following formula to determine the appropriate size: add the length and width of the room in feet, and then convert the sum to inches to get the ideal diameter of the chandelier. For a king or queen-sized bed, a chandelier with a 36-inch diameter is proportional, while a 24-inch diameter is better suited for full or twin-sized beds.

Bulb Type

When choosing light bulbs for your bedroom chandelier, consider using LED bulbs. LED technology has advanced to the point where it is often difficult to distinguish between LED fixtures and traditional incandescent ones. LEDs offer increased efficiency, reliability, and energy savings. They also have a long lifespan, lasting up to 50,000 hours on average. Additionally, LEDs run cooler than halogen bulbs, making them a safer option.

Design and Material

The design and material of your bedroom chandelier should complement your personal style and the overall aesthetic of the space. If you have a traditional-style bedroom, a classic crystal chandelier can add a touch of glamour. For a more modern or contemporary look, focus on satin nickel or chrome finishes, clean lines, and minimal ornate decoration. You can also opt for a playful take on the sputnik style or a sculptural metal chandelier with crystals for a rustic yet elegant feel.

Modern vs traditional

When choosing a bedroom chandelier, it's important to consider the size of the room, the height of the ceiling, and whether you want a modern or traditional look.

Modern chandeliers are known for their sleek and minimalist designs, often featuring clean lines and simple shapes. They are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and functional, complementing contemporary homes with their innovative and cutting-edge styles. On the other hand, traditional chandeliers tend to be more ornate and decorative, with intricate details and a focus on heavy, larger fixtures that sync with the room's architecture and furniture.

If you're leaning towards a modern chandelier, look for satin nickel or chrome finishes. These finishes complement wall sconces and other light fixtures, creating a cohesive look throughout your space. Modern chandeliers also tend to have exposed bulbs, so consider adding a dimmer to control the light output and create a cosy atmosphere.

Traditional chandeliers, however, often feature crystals, beads, and multiple arms with candelabras. They create a sense of elegance and romance in a room. When choosing a traditional chandelier, consider the size of the room to ensure it doesn't overpower the space.

Ultimately, the choice between modern and traditional depends on your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your bedroom. Both options offer unique advantages and can enhance the charm and beauty of your space.

Frequently asked questions