A practical guide by Carrowen
A chandelier is far more than a decorative accent—it’s often the true focal point of a room. The right chandelier can define the atmosphere, enhance proportions, and elevate your interior from ordinary to unforgettable.
At Carrowen, we believe choosing a chandelier should balance beauty with purpose. From lighting performance to scale and style, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to select a chandelier that feels intentional, functional, and perfectly at home in your space.
1. Functionality: Creating the Right Light for Every Room
Beautiful lighting starts with understanding how a room is used. A chandelier should do more than look good—it must provide the right amount and quality of light for daily living.
Light Intensity & Hanging Height
Light Output
Different rooms require different lighting levels. Dining rooms and living rooms typically need brighter, more evenly distributed light, while bedrooms benefit from softer illumination. Adequate brightness ensures comfort—no one wants to dine under dim, inadequate lighting.
Hanging Height
Correct placement is essential for both safety and aesthetics:
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Above a dining table: hang the chandelier 75–90 cm (30–35 inches) from the tabletop
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In living areas: allow at least 220 cm (87 inches) from the floor to the bottom of the fixture
This ensures clear movement while allowing the chandelier to visually anchor the room.
Type & Temperature of Light
Light Source
LED bulbs are the preferred choice today—they’re energy-efficient, long-lasting, and available in multiple color temperatures. Halogen and traditional bulbs can still be used, but LEDs offer the greatest flexibility.
Light Temperature (Kelvin)
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2700–3000K (Warm light): Ideal for living rooms and bedrooms, creating a cozy, inviting feel
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4000–5000K (Cool light): Best for kitchens, offices, and workspaces where focus is essential
Alt text: Chandelier lighting warmth comparison in a modern living room
2. Dimensions: Choosing the Right Chandelier Size
Proportion is key. A chandelier that’s too small can feel insignificant, while one that’s oversized may overwhelm the room.
Chandelier Diameter
A practical guideline:
Chandelier diameter (cm) = 8 × (room width + room length in meters)
Example:
A room measuring 4 m × 6 m → (4 + 6) × 8 = 80 cm ideal diameter
How Many Bulbs Do You Need?
You can estimate the number of chandelier arms (or bulbs) using this formula:
Number of bulbs = Room size (m²) × Recommended watts per m² ÷ 40
Why divide by 40?
Because 40W represents the output of a traditional incandescent bulb (roughly equivalent to a 4W LED).
Recommended watts per m²:
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Living room: 20 W/m²
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Kitchen: 15–20 W/m²
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Kitchen countertop: 30 W/m²
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Bedroom & hallway: 10–15 W/m²
Example:
A 6 × 6 m living room = 36 m²
36 × 20 ÷ 40 = 18 bulbs
Alt text: Chandelier size guide based on room dimensions
3. Matching a Chandelier to Your Interior Style
Because a chandelier naturally draws the eye, it should complement—not compete with—the room’s overall design language.
Modern & Urban Interiors
Modern spaces emphasize clean lines and understated elegance. Opt for chandeliers with sleek metal frames, minimal detailing, or glass elements.
Urban interiors allow more creativity—bold shapes, mixed materials, or modern interpretations of classic crystal chandeliers can add character without overwhelming the space.
Alt text: Modern chandelier in an urban-style living room
Glamour, Country & Provencal Styles
Glamour & Chateau
Crystal chandeliers shine in these settings, reflecting light beautifully and reinforcing a sense of luxury and grandeur.
Country Style
Warm, welcoming interiors pair well with chandeliers made from wood, iron, or softly aged finishes that enhance the home’s cozy charm.
Provencal
Inspired by the French countryside, this style favors soft tones, elegant curves, and patina finishes that feel romantic and timeless.
Alt text: Crystal chandelier in a classic glamour dining room
Industrial & Scandinavian Spaces
Industrial Style
Raw materials like metal, concrete, and reclaimed wood define this look. Chandeliers inspired by factory lighting or exposed-bulb designs add bold character.
Scandinavian Style
Light-filled, functional, and calm—Scandinavian interiors work best with simple forms, frosted glass, or white metal finishes that feel airy and refined.
Alt text: Minimalist Scandinavian chandelier in a bright interior
Find Your Perfect Chandelier with Carrowen
Selecting the right chandelier is a balance of proportion, function, and personal style. When thoughtfully chosen, it becomes more than lighting—it becomes the soul of the room.
If you’d prefer personalized guidance, the Carrowen team is always here to help. From sizing advice to visual recommendations, we’ll help you find a chandelier that fits your space beautifully and effortlessly.
✨ Explore our chandelier collection and let your space shine.
