How to Properly Size a Chandelier

When choosing a chandelier for your room: It should neither overpower your table nor look too small. Measure your table (if it's round, measure its diameter, if it's a rectangle, measure its width), and then subtract 12" (30 cm) from that number. For example, if you have a 42"-wide (107 cm) table, your chandelier should be 30" (76 cm) in diameter. A properly proportioned chandelier comes to within 6" (15 cm) of each edge of the table. Using this easy formula will help you achieve that balance. Some manufacturers offer oval chandeliers for extra long rectangular tables.

Proper positioning is very important for a balanced look. Since a chandelier is the focal point in your dining room, it should hang over the center of your table. If the electrical connection in your ceiling doesn't match up with the table's center, insert a heavy duty decorative hook into the ceiling above the center of the table, then attach a length of decorative chain to carry the wiring from the electrical connection to the hook. The bottom of your chandelier should be 30" (76 cm) above the tabletop if you have 8' (2.4 m) ceilings. If your ceilings are higher than 8', raise the chandelier 3" (7.5 cm) for every extra foot (30 cm) of height.

Chandeliers for other rooms – the chandelier should be placed higher than 8 feet above the floor in the middle of the room. When placing a majestic chandelier in the foyer, take into consideration the height of the ceiling and size of the space. If there’s a window above the front door, you may want to center it in the window for maximum curb appeal and aesthetics. Optimal placement would be at least 9 feet from the floor.
Information on selecting the correct size fixture

Height - The distance from the top to the bottom of the fixture, not including the chain.

Overall Height - The total length from the top to the bottom of the light, including the chain.

Extra Wire - Every hanging light that we sell comes with more wire than chain.

Diameter - The width of the fixture.

Extension - The distance the fixture comes out from the wall.

Top of Fixture to Center of Outlet - The distance between the top of the wall light and where the fixture attaches to the wall.