Monday, May 16, 2011

What Is The Proper Chandelier Height Over A Dining Room Table

Hanging a chandelier can add ambiance to a dining room.


Decorative lighting is has two purposes: it should be visually appealing and give proper illumination. Hanging chandeliers must look good, light well and be hung at the proper height as to not get it the way. The location of the chandelier will determine the best height.


Normal Ceiling Height


Most dining rooms have a ceiling that is 8 feet high. Chandeliers hung over a dining table should be hung so that the bottom of the piece is at least 30 to 36 inches above the top of the table.


High Ceilings


In a room with ceilings higher than 8 feet, a chandelier may have to be hung higher than the normal minimal height of 30 to 36 inches to balance the visual effect. Just shorten the chain by 3 inches, or choose a double-tiered chandelier for high ceilings.


Special Considerations


Many dining room tables also serve as work areas, homework areas and even as temporary home offices. Adjustments may have to be made to the height of the chandelier to accommodate the illumination needs of the family and the type of the lamp and opacity of the shade.

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