The right chandelier in the wrong place will not have the impact you want. Proper placement is about proportion, height, and purpose. Here is a room-by-room guide to getting it right.
Dining Room
The dining room is the most common place for a chandelier, and for good reason — it is where the fixture can shine as a centerpiece.
- Size: The chandelier diameter should be about 1/2 to 2/3 the width of your dining table. A 36-inch table pairs well with an 18-24 inch chandelier.
- Height: The bottom of the chandelier should hang 30-34 inches above the table surface. For ceilings higher than 8 feet, add 3 inches for each additional foot.
- Position: Center the chandelier over the table, not the room. If your table is off-center, the chandelier should follow the table.
Foyer and Entryway
The foyer chandelier is the first thing guests see. Make it count.
- Size: For a two-story foyer, the chandelier should be proportional to the space. A common rule: measure the foyer length plus width in feet, and use that number in inches for the diameter.
- Height: The bottom should hang at least 7 feet above the floor. For two-story foyers, position it so the center of the chandelier is at eye level from the second floor.
- Position: Center it in the entryway, ideally above any furniture or rug.
Living Room
A living room chandelier adds ambiance and defines the space.
- Size: Use the room dimension rule (length + width in feet = diameter in inches).
- Height: Hang at least 7 feet above the floor. If above a coffee table, 30-36 inches above the table surface.
- Position: Center over the seating area or coffee table.
Bedroom
A bedroom chandelier creates a romantic, cozy atmosphere.
- Size: Smaller is usually better — 18-24 inches for most bedrooms.
- Height: At least 7 feet above the floor. If above the bed, make sure it does not interfere with ceiling fans or low canopies.
- Position: Center over the bed or in the middle of the room.
Kitchen
Kitchen chandeliers work best over islands or breakfast nooks.
- Size: For kitchen islands, the chandelier should be about 1/3 the length of the island.
- Height: 30-36 inches above the counter surface.
- Position: Center over the island. For longer islands, consider two smaller chandeliers spaced evenly.
General Rules
- Always leave at least 7 feet of clearance below the chandelier for walkways.
- When in doubt, go slightly smaller rather than too large.
- Consider dimmable options for flexibility.
- Make sure your ceiling can support the weight.
Find the Right Chandelier
Now that you know where to put it, browse our collection to find the perfect chandelier for your space. Free shipping and tax free on every order.
