How to Choose a Bedroom Chandelier

It used to be that chandeliers were typically found in living rooms or spaces where guests and family members gather or entertain. With the evolution of portable devices – such as tablets and smartphones – plus the increased popularity of streaming entertainment channels, family members no longer gather around one central TV to watch programs together like they did in the past.

When the pandemic hit and families were “sheltering in place” for months, the desire to have one’s own space for relaxing in private to listen to music, watch a TV show, or text/message with friends without other family members in sight or earshot doubled. Spending more time surrounded by their bedroom walls has led people of all ages to spruce up these personal spaces to be even more reflective of their individual lifestyles — and, more importantly, become a sanctuary to de-stress.

To meet this consumer desire, interior designers have begun replacing the typical ceiling fan/light combination in the bedroom with decorative chandeliers or pendants. The switch not only provides better light quality, but also enhances the overall ambiance.

Where Do I Put It?

Chances are good that you are replacing an existing fixture or ceiling fan, so there will already be a junction box in a suitable location. If not, there are two primary spots where designers place chandeliers in the bedroom: at the room’s center (which is often near the foot of the bed) or directly over the bed.

To keep the furnishings in scale, determine the bedroom’s size (length, width, and height). Keep in mind that the bottom of the chandelier should be seven feet above the floor — if it is any lower, you risk a potential head injury or it could obstruct TV viewing from the bed. Fortunately, there are chandeliers and pendants on the market in a wide range of sizes. If you have a king- or queen-size bed, a lighting fixture with a 36-inch diameter would be in proportion; for full- or twin-size beds, look for fixtures with a diameter of approximately 24 inches.

While decorative style is a matter of individual preference, choosing a lighting fixture that has the bulbs somewhat obscured will increase your comfort by reducing glare. To further maximize the versatility of the lighting fixture, install a dimmer so you can adjust the light level to match the activity (brighter when dressing or making the bed, and dimmer when watching TV or relaxing).

Add a Layer

Interior designers prefer to have more than one light source in the bedroom. For example, having a light close to the bed will make reading or tablet/phone viewing easier by reducing eye strain. Bedside table lamps are a common solution, however, today’s trend for Minimalist design has led to space-saving alternatives such as wall-mounted, adjustable or swing-arm reading lights on both sides of the bed or installing two pendant lights over the nightstands (hung 36 inches above the tabletop).  

Amp Up Your Style

Beyond improving the light quality, another benefit of updating your bedroom lighting is the personal joy and satisfaction of having every element of your bedroom feel tailor-made for your design preferences.

Whether your style is ultra-contemporary, stately traditional, Farmhouse, Boho glam, or Retro-inspired, there are lighting fixtures, chandeliers, and pendants that are perfect for the vibe you are trying to create in your special space.

Here’s a tip from design pros: When looking for the ideal light for your bedroom, don’t limit your search to the “bedroom lighting” category. Use search terms like “chandeliers, pendants, and lighting fixtures” like you would when selecting lighting for your family room or living room, but just pay close attention to the diameter, height, and width to find the best fit.

You Can Find What You Need at LightsOnline

LightsOnline has everything you’re looking for in bedroom lighting that will capture your lifestyle and aesthetic simply, beautifully, and affordably.

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Read more:

• Bedroom Decor Trends for 2020
• How to Light a Room with a Low Ceiling
• The Complete Wall Sconce Sizing Guide
• How to Choose a Statement Light Fixture for Your Room