Opulence is the first word that comes to mind when you think of Chandeliers. Conventionally, this light fixture has been considered an option, suitable only for those with lavish tastes and Palatial homes. But not anymore! Chandeliers have re-invented themselves, over the years, to suit both traditional and modern decor styles, and are now available at an affordable price range.

Chandeliers are the most dramatic and eye-catching way to light up a room. “A chandelier enlivens the entire area with its beauty and elegance. It can be used in your entrance hall, living and dining room, and bedroom.”

You can choose from a myriad of styles, sizes, and materials. There are traditional chandeliers that are more ornate in design and filigree, lending an old-world charm to the space. These are a bit expensive and suitable for spacious homes with a good ceiling-to-floor height. The magazine recommends crystal chandeliers to accentuate a glamorous and artistic decor. Crystal chandeliers are the most common option available. Their cut and size reflect light beautifully. Also, tiered chandeliers whose width/diameter increases in proportion to the length are interesting options. These can be two or multi-tiered versions and can be found in classic, contemporary or rustic designs.

With quaint palaces now rendered as archeological sites and wealth displays having several other manifestations, chandelier styles and sizes have evolved to suit homes with restricted means. Similarly, the availability of chandeliers in different materials and styles has developed over the years. They are available in glass, metal, and wrought iron. Most modern chandeliers are moving from curved arms to geometrical accents. Options in polished nickel finishes with multi-faceted etched glass, chrome starburst patterns, or cylindrical designs are modern variants that you can source for your home.

Drum and rustic chandeliers are other common styles. Drum chandeliers are usually used in areas where focused light is needed. The drum acts as a diffuser to get rid of the harshness of direct light, while still providing ample illumination and decoration.

You can take decor coordination a step further with colour-infused glasses or fabric shade chandeliers. Coloured chandeliers are restricted to specific interior shades and themes. But if you want to change the interiors in the future, modifications can be quite easy.

As you are dealing with a heavy and, even, pricy lighting fixture, it is necessary to keep certain points in mind. Huge chandeliers work well in rooms with vaulted ceilings. An oversized chandelier in a heavily furnished or small room might look tacky and flashy. Do not make the mistake of overlooking the finer points of scale, installation requirements, and how well the fixture will satisfy your lighting needs. Also, as they are not fixtures that can be easily moved around a space, it is necessary to position them perfectly.

With their overpowering presence, chandeliers become the focal point of any room; they define a room’s style and alter its ambiance. Hence, choose your chandeliers in tune with your decor style and personal taste, and lend a sense of sophistication to your home.

Swati Balgi

Photographs: Courtesy of The Brands