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Creating Ambiance With a Small Chandelier

When most of us think of chandeliers, we think of the large crystal type that typically hang over a dining room table in a traditional home. Well, it’s time to broaden our horizons and think smaller, at least when it comes to chandeliers. There are many reasons to use chandeliers for lighting, and all of these benefits can be achieved even if we only have the room or the budget for a small chandelier.

Chandeliers can add both drama and warmth to a room. They can be a gentle source of diffused light that contrasts with some of the other more harsh types of light we might have in our homes already. Small chandeliers can be a beautiful accent piece and finish off the décor of the room that it is placed in. While a small or “mini” chandelier might not be the primary light source in a room, it can certainly add light to a section of the space and contribute to the overall ambiance of the room.

A small chandelier is perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, stairways, small foyers or even over a kitchen table. If the chandelier is approximately 12-15 inches in diameter, it will typically illuminate about a 10′ x 10′ foot area. This number will change depending upon the number of lights and total wattage of the fixture that you select. If possible, add a dimmer switch to the chandelier to make low lighting another option.

As with larger chandeliers, there are many different styles of small chandeliers. Look for wrought iron or crystal chandeliers for a traditional look. Small crystal chandeliers would also be a nice contrast to a modern dining room table, creating visual interest and softening the straight lines of a contemporary piece of furniture.

If antiques are your thing, find a Tiffany style chandelier with stained glass fixtures that are a throwback to 19th century designs. Or look for a small Victorian reproduction to provide some old world charm along with soft light for the room. There are actually small chandeliers for every decorating style imaginable. Don’t be afraid to bring in a different style to a room as well. Just because you have room with some contemporary pieces doesn’t mean you can’t add that lovely crystal chandelier that you find.

The other great thing about going with a small chandelier is that you don’t have to spend quite as much money to add a beautiful accent piece that also serves the practical purpose of providing light. If you happen to have a small chandelier that just needs an update, you can buy small chandelier shades in lighting stores and online and give the fixture a whole new look. Take a look at small chandeliers the next time you need a new light fixture and you may find a great lighting solution.