How to Buy a Foyer Chandelier

Buying lighting is often over looked until the last minute. The right fixture can transform your space. Here are some easy steps to follow when looking to buy a foyer chandelier...

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape Measure
• Paper
• Pen/Pencil
• A second person
• Camera

1. Measure. You'll need to know the length, width and height of your space. If you have an existing chandelier in the foyer you should measure this as well. This will give you a scale to compare new chandeliers to. This is where the second person comes in...

2. Determine the proper chandelier width for your foyer. To determine the appropriate size you must take your room width + your room length (in feet). The sum of these will give you an approximate diameter for a chandelier (in inches). For example: If your foyer is 10' X 12' your chandelier diameter should be about 22". Compare this number to your existing fixture to give an idea of the scale you'll be looking at.

3. Determine your ceiling height. Measure from floor to ceiling where the fixture will be mounted. This will tell you how long the chandelier should be. Chandeliers should hang at least 7' off the floor. For high ceilings two or three tier chandeliers may be required. For lower ceilings you may be looking at a flush or semi flush (close to ceiling) fixture.

4. Make sure you note what the wattage and bulb type is of your current fixture. If your happy with the amount of light you should be sure you find something comparable.

5. Decide on the style and color. Do you want something that sparkles? Is your home traditional or contemporary? Glam or simplistic? Are you looking at silver tones? Take other lights, door knobs and cabinet handles into consideration if your unsure about color. Now is also a good time to figure out a budget ...I know ...I don't like that word either.

6. Take pictures of your foyer. When shopping it will be easier to visualize for you and your salesperson if you have a picture.

7. SHOP!!! Try visiting a lighting showroom. Staff at specialty stores usually have more product knowledge. You can get some ideas and see what's out there. Showrooms allow you a wider range of options, one-on-one advice and a more person approach but you may be paying a little bit more. Shop around. It won't hurt anything and you might end up being pleasantly surprised by the Showrooms.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a dimmer make sure it will work with the fixture your buying. Low voltage fixtures need low voltage dimmers which will bump up the price of the project.
• if you have a window above the door you should center the chandelier in it if possible to get the best affect.
• Make sure you throw your own style into the foyer. Foyers can be fun to dress up. Don't be scared to add a couple extra inches if you're in love with the look!

[rpeters85]

on 12/14/2009 Great tips, Thanks!!!

[chsawchuk]

on 10/24/2009 lol or that.

[designchicago]

on 10/24/2009 Or,,.. you can hire a designer to help you ....lol