Home & Outdoor Lighting » Chandeliers

Purchasing Great Light Fittings for Your Home

Perry Latham — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:03:24 +0000

When the kitchen ceiling light fittings cast deep shadows in areas where you really need to see, or the chandelier light fitting in the formal dining room is too big, too small, or just doesn’t fit your personal taste, new ceiling light fitting can create a functional and beautiful space.

Balancing light fixtures on the walls, under the cabinets, or on the ceiling is an important element to setting up a new lighting scheme in the home. First, decide on the style of lighting fixtures that will fit the home’s architecture and interior decor. Any period and style are fine, as there are light fixtures for a modern home, minimalist contemporary, or a more classic and elegant home.

Regardless of what type of home you live in, consider what the most important areas in the room are that need to be lit. If this is a kitchen, the ceiling light fittings need to be powerful enough to give a bright light to the whole room, along with other lighting to get into specific areas.

For a kitchen island or bar, it is a good idea to get pendant lights that hang from the ceiling or an overhang and direct task lighting without spilling over into other areas. Pendant lights typically have a stiff rod to stabilize them, but swag lamps hanging from a chain are made in small enough sizes to fit these areas as well.

Most homeowners have at least one chandelier in their formal dining area. The chandelier is a piece that attracts attention because of its location, and should be bright enough and big enough to fit the room. Many interior designers use the height of the room to determine the size of the chandelier. For every foot in height the ceiling light fitting should be 3″ across. Therefore, a 12′ high ceiling would do well with a 36″ ceiling light fitting. A large bathroom can follow the same rule, but should always be used in conjunction with mirror lights or wall sconces to eliminate excessive shadows.

High quality and high design made of materials like stainless steel, solid brass, and cast iron do not come cheap. In fact ceiling light fittings range from $300-$3000 and more at high-end lighting stores, especially for period specific reproduction pieces. However, by checking your local home improvement store the cost can be reduced. These stores carry lower end designer brands for hundreds less.

All About Reproduction Antler Chandeliers

Perry Latham — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:59:59 +0000

So what exactly is a reproduction antler chandelier? Well, it is a chandelier lighting fixture made from fake antler and is supposed to imitate the ever popular antler chandelier. Most of these home lighting fixtures are used in lodges, cabins, and homes that are attempting to achieve a rusting look. Another common name for fake antler is cast antler. Throughout the rest of this article, I will be discussing several different reasons why I think that more people should go with cast antler chandeliers rather than real ones.

In order to understand why I feel this way about them, you need to understand that they are not cheap. These reproductions are made mainly from polyethylene. Polyethylene is both strong and durable. Another question that many skeptics have on this matter has to do with the appearance. Folks, these units look as good if not better than the real thing. There is no question about that. Most who make these chandeliers are very skilled at what they do and do a really great job. Usually, you can even check out what they look like online before you go ahead and make a purchase.

So, what does all of this information say about reproduction antler products? What this means is that products made from this material are going to be cheaper, lighter, and look just as good as the real deal. If you are serious about getting a chandelier made form antler, then after you do your research, you will find that they usually cost a lot of money. We are not talking about a couple hundred dollars folks, more like thousands. It really depends on how cool you want it to look. You want more cascades of antler – its going to cost you more money. I also believe that, due to the fact that they are lighter, the shipping and handling costs would be much less. I hope you found this information useful, thanks for reading.

Selecting Indoor Lighting

Perry Latham — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 19:53:56 +0000

Selecting indoor lighting can be a very confusing thing. One of the first things that you should consider is the overall decorating theme that you are looking for. This is important so that you can begin to narrow down some of the choices for your room. You should also understand the different functions of some indoor lighting.

There seems to be a different style of light for each area of your home. Often we will use chandelier light in our formal dining room, or even perhaps in our entryway. A chandelier will add that touch of class and elegance that we may be looking for. You can choose from the Crystal traditional chandelier or you can choose from one of the many modern designs. It is important that you select the correct size based on height of your room. You certainly do not want a large chandelier in a small space. To better plan your budget, you should know that the prices would vary depending on your selection. You can expect to spend between $200 to more than $1000 for a new chandelier.

To complete your overall design, there is nothing better than to match wall sconce lighting to your chandelier. This is a great way to provide indirect lighting for any room. You can find many selections that will compliment your chandelier as well as other lighting options. There are some that also use the Crystal design as well as some of the more modern metal designs. You can incorporate the design of your room by using this type of lighting. Sconce lighting prices will also vary depending on the style that you select. You can find some the cost less than $100 and of course, you can find those that are much more expensive.

The important thing about selecting indoor lighting is to determine the location that you need to have lighted. It is important to remember that each kind of lighting may perform a different function. You can find many styles of chandelier and sconce lighting at a variety of home improvement stores as well as those specialty home lighting stores. There are many websites that sell regular or formal lighting fixtures as well. You can take a look at the many designs and prices at a variety of these online stores.

The History of the Chandelier Lighting

Perry Latham — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 07:31:42 +0000

One of the oldest types of lighting fixture is the chandelier which is still in popular use today. The word chandelier comes from “chandel” which is the French word for candle. This particular form of lighting had its beginning in medieval times when it was used to light up group meeting areas. The simple candle chandelier was composed of two pieces of wood put together in the form of an X. Candles were held in place by spikes which were fastened to the ends of the wood.

As time passed, the form of chandeliers became more complex. Many took the shape of a ring or a crown, still using candles for light. At this time, only those who were in the upper class, the nobility, or the clergy were able to afford this chandelier.

During the 18th century more ornate chandeliers were created using a cast and made from brass. This type of fixture, known as ormolu, was comprised of long curved arms with many candles, using mirrors and quartz to reflect the candlelight. At this time, the merchant class was prospering, and this type of chandelier lighting became more popular.

As time progressed, there were new developments in glassmaking, making it easier to create lead crystal. This type of crystal was a major improvement over the quartz, making it possible to scatter the light in ways never thought possible. These crystal chandeliers became the most popular type of chandelier.

The 19th century found the homeowner using gas to light up their personal chandelier. When the use of electricity was available, some of the chandeliers were created to run on both gas and electricity, and as it is now, all electric. This made this light fixture available to all those who desired it.

Today, chandeliers can be used in a number of ways. As in earlier times, many homes have them in their main gathering setting, such as their dining room. A mini-chandelier is just a smaller version of a standard size one. It can be used in smaller surroundings, such as in a bathroom or bedroom. There are even outside chandeliers that are used to brighten up decks, patios, and other outside gathering areas. In addition, one can match their chandelier to a room’s décor by using the various chandelier shades which are available.

Today’s chandelier has come a long way from its first form, but whether then or now, it still remains the focus of whatever room it calls home.

Decorating Around a Chandelier Lighting Fixture

Perry Latham — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 17:26:31 +0000

When you are tackling the redecoration of a room there are many things to consider. First you must prepare the walls and floors for whatever treatments are coming. Wall repairs might include some plastering in places and floors may simply need a good cleaning or refinishing. Once you have such basic steps covered, you can then move on to the more interesting parts of home design. Things such as picking out paint colors, furniture, fixtures, and fittings. You can choose to decorate a room around one focal point is usually a good idea.

Picking chandelier lighting as your focal point is a great way to begin any redecorating project. For example, if you choose a traditional chandelier you can get pick out traditional furniture that matches and choose colors that also go with that style. On the other hand, if you prefer a contemporary design, you can also find plenty of modern chandelier designs which you can then carryout throughout a room. Modern styles can range from black chandeliers to chrome chandeliers. There are many styles to choose from and you can easily get a good feel for what is available directly online.

Once you have picked the best chandelier lighting fixture for your room design, it is important to get it installed professionally. You should contact an electrician to ensure that the existing ceiling can successfully handle the weight of your new fixture and that the fuse box in your home will be able to cope with the additional load that a larger fixture with more bulbs will bring.

When you have finished decorating the entire room you can then enjoy the new ambience that a well-chosen chandelier can bring especially when it is utilized as the focal point in the room. For an added mood-altering and energy saving feature, install a dimmer switch!

Chandeliers Offer Endless Home Lighting Possibilities

Perry Latham — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 04:08:17 +0000

Replacing or installing light fixtures in a home can easily become an overwhelming task because there are so many varieties to choose from. The possibilities are just about endless especially when you are looking for a decorative light fixture. Many home lighting fixtures that were once intended for installation in specific rooms of a home are now being used as decorative art in other less important rooms. For example, chandeliers were once a necessary fixture in formal living spaces especially dining rooms and entryways. Modern design is recommending chandelier lighting for just about any room in a home. Today’s chandelier designers are creating pieces that are more elegant and beautiful in both design and materials. The addition of an attractive and unique light fixture can in itself become a major focal feature in any room of a home including bathrooms, kitchens, and even bedrooms.

When choosing the shape and style of chandeliers, lighting fixtures, and other fixtures for a room, it is highly important to remain consistent with the architectural and decorative aspects of each specific room. Does the trim work have a specific design? How are the windows, doors, and entryways shaped? Do the floors contain a certain pattern? Many aspects must be taken into consideration but none are as important as the overall size of a room. A focal light fixture should be proportioned accordingly so that it does not appear too large or too small when centered in a room. Modern designers recommend that for every foot of width in a room, the light fixture should be two inches in diameter. For instance, a crystal chandelier that is 24 inches in diameter is proportionate to a room that is 12 feet wide.

Proper positioning of a light fixture is also very important to its functionality and effectiveness. For example, if a chandelier is to go in a dining room, make sure it is centered over the dining room table even if the table is not centered in the room. Designers recommend that you install the fixture so that it hangs approximately 30 inches above the dining room table. In other parts of your home, the height doesn’t really matter as long as it is high enough so that no one can get hurt from running into it. It is also important to remember that a light fixture should work and fit in well with your home’s design scheme and not the other way around. Never purchase items on impulse or because of the way something looks in a store because many times you will find that it doesn’t necessarily mean it will look the same in your home. Some materials are a little easier to make fit or blend in even into a specific design scheme. For example, modern crystal chandeliers come in all kinds of unique and elegant shapes, styles, and even finishes. The time you spend making small but good considerations is well worth the impact that a decorative light fixture can bring into any room of your home.

Chandelier Lighting Fixtures

Perry Latham — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 01:35:18 +0000

Historically, extravagant and luxurious lighting fixtures were only used in formal rooms and ball rooms in a home. Families with good financial standing would install elaborate lighting in gathering and entertaining areas as a symbol of their stature. Back then, large light fixtures were found in dining rooms, entryways, great halls, and seating or tea rooms. Nowadays, attractive light fixtures are used as a way to bring elegance, beauty, and unique style into a home. For some homeowners, the effectiveness of a fixture takes precedent to appearance because many look for ways to reduce their energy consumption so one large light fixture that can illuminate an entire room is money well spent. One of the main advantages to choosing modern chandelier fixtures is that one can easily provide ample illumination for an entire room while also creating an elegant focal point within the space.

There are however, a few things you must consider when choosing a large light fixture. The dimensions of a room play an important role because each space has a specific shape and size. The height of the ceiling is especially important when it comes to picking out chandelier lighting because most chandeliers are specifically designed to hang down a significant distance from the ceiling. Before shopping, make sure you have all of the right measurements, and determine a style or shape of fixture that will best fit the overall design you are trying to achieve in the room. Many times the shape of the chandelier, shades, or the products finish is used to determine the overall style of the fixture. For instance, wrought iron or classic crystal chandelier fixtures are typically associated with a traditional style. Candle chandelier fixtures were once considered traditional but new innovative glass techniques have brought such fixtures into modern times.

Deciding which decorative elements will work best for your home can be a difficult process especially in a day in age when there are many sizes, styles, and finishes to choose from. Lighting fixtures have especially come a long way. The internet is a great place to begin your search. Most websites have detailed information and excellent pictures of the products they offer. Nowadays you don’t even have to visit a store in person because so many online stores offer shipping worldwide. Many also offer tips for decorating and designing with the help of a light fixture. You can also take a look at some of the various decorating magazines available today to find inspiration and ideas that fit your design style.