Dan's Papers - June 22, 2007 -

For centuries, chandeliers have been bringing exquisite glamour to rooms throughout the world. First appearing in Medieval times, chandeliers were primarily utilized to effectively light large halls, such as those in churches. As glassmaking developed and designs became more ornate, there was a proliferation; less expensive and more diverse, chandeliers were now found not only in extremely large halls, but also in the private home. With the advance of electrical lighting, chandeliers took on a different role from lighting spaces with pretty details, to one of decoration, providing spaces with artistic accents.

The classic chandeliers are the ones made of crystal. Typically attached by a shiny, metal chain, pieces of glass in shallow bowl design provide balance and footing to the tall candles or lights. The branches of the fixture are speckled with hanging crystals in diamond and jewel shapes. The great thing about this style is that it will never be out of vogue, so you can consider this a long term investment to be passed as a family heirloom. Want a crystal chandelier with a bit of edge? Try colored crystal, available in an array of hues, or how about a mini-chandelier in unexpected rooms, such as the bedroom or bath? Now that's chic. Prices on crystal chandeliers can range from the hundreds to as high as you are willing to imagine.

Chandeliers in the traditional style are also widely available. These hanging chandeliers are most known for their dark, iron-like metal structures, branching out from their apex like an octupus and swirling in design. Unlike their crystal cousins where the hanging beads of crystal provide the depth, traditional chandeliers often rely on tiers of lighting to bring interest in design, with two or three levels of light. Shallow bowl designs secure the fixtures again, but traditional chandeliers may have light shades to dim the level of illumination. Despite the usual, these chandeliers are available in white metals and bronzes, so match according to your space. Also, look for this style in oval shape; this structure is a great choice if you are looking for something to affix above the dining room table.

Contemporary chandeliers should not be overlooked! Those creating chandeliers are trying just about everything, so you can find extremely unique designs. This style covers those chandeliers that are sparkley to minimalist, modern. The light count on these can range from many (common in the other chandelier types mentioned) to two lights separated by a single rod, to one light centered and hanging down the fixture. The lights may have the typical bowl design, but these bowls may be open side down or cover a whole short light, meaning the brightness is never seen directly from the source, but through a layer of glass. This style has allowed for a trend in art glass treatments, dimming, brightening, or shaping the illumination and frosting and tinting the glass. Finally, the lights on these chandeliers may be at different levels, creating a pleasing assymetrical or stair like look. Check out ambered and rippled glass or chandelier designs with single hanging pendants in various, artistic designs.

Want to go for the biggest trend? Bring those glorious fixtures outside! Chandeliers are now widely available for covered patios and decks. Attach these chandeliers to the top of a screened in porch to play with the light and add some drama to your next party. Be sure to have a lot of bright colors in your linens and decor if you really want to capture this summer's style. If showy bling is not your thing, chandeliers are still for you! Simply choose more traditional or minimalist designs so you can bring the warm, interior feeling to your sunroom. When purchasing a chandelier for the outdoors, make sure it is specified as such; you want to ensure that your fixture will withstand the weather elements as it hangs from your gazebo's ceiling and that wires won't be ruined in an afternoon thunderstom! Also, if your choose a style with lamp shades, make sure these are durable and fade resistant so the summer sun won't dull them out.

No matter which type you choose or whether your new chandelier is for inside or out, take some time browsing before choosing! With endless styles available and some on the more expensive end, look for a chandelier that matches your personality so it can serve you and your guests for years to come.